News 10 www.aftermarketonline.net OCTOBER 2025 Fresh industry calls for a long-overdue increase in the MOT test fee have been made as part of a new campaign. The IAAF said it was time to reset the aftermarket’s contract with consumers as part of a push to modernise the MOT and boost support for safety, air quality, rising standards and the right to repair for the independent automotive aftermarket. The current maximum fee a garage can charge for a car MOT test is £54.85. The IAAF said it supports proposals to modernise the MOT, including the testing of exhaust particulate levels from both petrol and diesel vehicles, as well as functional checks on ADAS systems. Mark Field, IAAF chief executive, said: “The MOT test fee has remained frozen since 2010, despite the exponential growth of in-vehicle technology and related safety systems. In line with inflation alone, the test fee should now sit at around £90. “If we are serious about ensuring vehicles stay roadworthy and emissions stay within safe limits, the fee must be increased. This will allow testing stations to continue delivering high standards and invest in the equipment and training needed to test today’s increasingly complex vehicle systems.” ,*$ FRQᎮUPV 6(50, ૻVHW WR JR OLYH LQ 8.ૼ The Independent Garage Association has secured the UK launch of SERMI in a landmark step toward accreditation — paving the way for industry-wide transformation. The IGA has hailed the move as a watershed moment for the UK’s independent automotive sector, which comes after days of extensive audits with the regulatory body UKAS. Now the recommendation for approval has been received for the launch of the SERMI (Security-related Repair and Maintenance Information) scheme in the UK. The scheme introduces a unified, centralised audit and certification process, enabling vetted independent professionals to securely access essential information such as key coding, ECU programming, and software downloads, without navigating multiple manufacturer systems. The IGA has set this up on a not-for-profit basis to ensure that the benefits of the scheme go directly to independent garages.” This monumental achievement enables independent garages to access critical securityrelated vehicle data, a domain previously limited to franchised dealerships only, the IGA said. After over a decade of tireless advocacy and unwavering commitment, the IGA said it had delivered on its promise to level the playing field for independent operators across the nation. SERMI represents a revolutionary leap forward. Developed in close collaboration with the UK government and vehicle manufacturers, the European scheme has been adapted for the UK market by developing an annex system. Stuart James, IGA chief executive, said, “We are delighted that after many years the scheme has finally come to fruition. Subject to final documents being issued, we anticipate it going live this year. “SERMI not only simplifies access to vital securityrelated data but also underscores the integrity and professionalism of certified garages. Participation in this scheme is crucial for the future success and competitiveness of independent garages.” “This initiative represents a landmark victory for the independent garage sector.” 1HZ ELG WR UDLVH 027 IHH LQ ૻUHVHWૼ IRU JDUDJHV
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