The voice of the independent garage sector April 2026 www.aftermarketonline.net 14 Business Flexible finance 17 24 Technical Garage equipment Lessons from a Porsche Tools built for EVs 6WULFWHU UHJXODWLRQV DQG UHGXFHG TXRWDV DUH LQFUHDVLQJ SULFHV DQG UHGXFLQJ WKH DYDLODELOLW\ RI 5 D 5($'< )25 7+( &+$1*( )520 5 D WR 5 $" 'URS LQ UHIULJHUDQW QR RLO FKDQJH QR V\VWHP PRGLILFDWLRQV .HHSLQJ \RX FRRO XQGHU SUHVVXUH ZZZ QDWLRQDOUHI FRP 5 $ *:3 6FDQ WR UHDG PRUH
5,000+ ATTENDEES 200+ SUPPLIERS 100+ HOURS OF EDUCATIONAL CONTENT 3-4 June 2026 NEC, Birmingham The national event for garages and workshops, getting your business up to speed in two days Scan for your free ticket EXHIBITORS INCLUDE: 5FWPNSL FSI GWJFPKFXY FWJ XYWNHYQ^ KTW LFWFLJ GTI^XMTU FSI IJYFNQNSL UWTKJXXNTSFQX 'WJFPKFXY NX F[FNQFGQJ TSQ^ NK ^TZ FWWN[J GJKTWJ ್ FR Business Management Theatre Garage Den Parking & Pizza FREE
Editor’s comment 3 www.aftermarketonline.net SEPTEMBER 2025 Editor Chris Callander chris@aftermarket.co.uk +44 (0) 1732 671123 Head of Sales Angela Lyus angela@aftermarket.co.uk +44 (0) 7823 736 629 Managing Director Ryan Fuller ryan.fuller@dfamedia.co.uk Marketing Manager Hope Jepson hope.jepson@dfamedia.co.uk Production Design Anthony Wiffen production@aftermarket.co.uk +44 (0) 7851 612799 Finance Department accounts@dfamedia.co.uk +44 (0) 1732 370 340 Contributors Darren Frogson Marcus Gregory Rebecca Pullan Published by DFA Media Group 192 High Street Tonbridge Kent TN9 1BE +44 (0)1732 370340 ISSN 2516-9149 Aftermarket is published 10 times a year and is sent free of charge to applicants meeting the publisher’s criteria. All others may subscribe at £60 per anum, £120 Europe and £150 rest of the world. While every care is taken to provide accurate information, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or ommisions, no matter how caused. All rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior consent of the publisher. The views of contributors do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher. Copyright: DFA Aftermarket Media Ltd 2026. Average net circulation July 2024 to June 2025 22,797 Let’s talk Welcome to the April edition of Aftermarket magazine, my first in the editor’s chair. As I write, I’m starting my fourth week in the role, and I can honestly say I don’t think I have had a warmer welcome in any sector I have worked in over my years in publishing. One of the first things John Shepherd said when he was handing over the reins – exceptionally well, it has to be said, thanks, John – was that the aftermarket sector was incredibly friendly, and it was no exaggeration. In my short time in the hot seat, I’ve had some extremely interesting meetings and conversations with people working in and for the companies that supply and support the aftermarket sector, and I have more scheduled, which is great. What I’m really keen to add to that mix is speaking to those of you working at the coal face. I’d like to find out what life is like for the independent garage operator, directly from those who are living and breathing it. Initially, there are three main areas I want to explore. The first is SERMI. What are your thoughts? Have you started the process of becoming SERMI-approved, or are you waiting to see how it develops? Do you think SERMI will improve or restrict your ability to carry out certain repairs? And how do you expect SERMI to change how your workshop operates day to day? Thinking more broadly, do you think SERMI will strengthen the position of the independent aftermarket or create further barriers? And how do you expect smaller garages to cope compared to larger workshop groups? If you have any views on any aspect of SERMI, I’d love to hear from you. My contact details are below. I’m also looking for garages to feature in the magazine’s garage visit section. Maybe you have an unusual niche, an interesting location or building. Do you have a business model you haven’t seen elsewhere? Have you done something a bit out of the ordinary that has had a positive impact on workshop efficiency, customer satisfaction or your ability to attract staff? If you think there is something about your operation that would interest your peers, please also get in touch. I’m also open to reader feedback. We put together Aftermarket magazine for you, our readers, so it’s important to hear your thoughts. Is there anything you want to see more of, or less of? What are your favourite sections, or your least favourite? Is there anything we are not covering that you’d like to see? Do you do the tea break crossword, sudoku and code word? If you’d like to share your views, please also get in touch. I hope you enjoy the issue, and I look forward to hearing from you. Chris Callander Editor
4 www.aftermarketonline.net APRIL 2026 Contents 10 12 18 Spotlight Security standards underpinning SERMI 10 Lubricant standards matter 11 16Technical The answer to Mercedes code P07B700 16 Lessons from a Porsche 911 17 6 News Women urged to enter Top Awards 6 All the latest industry updates 7-9 Business The new complaint challenge 12 The power of flexible finance 14 Garage Visit A visit to Brighton MOT ctr 18-19
5 www.aftermarketonline.net APRIL 2026 Subscribe to 44Plus Research 44 Training & wellbeing 45-47 On the move 48 Tea break challenge 50 Products 22-23 Garage equipment 24-28 Steering & suspension 30-34 Exhausts, CATS and accessories 36-38 Remanufacturing 40 Rotating electrics 42-43 22In focus
News 6 www.aftermarketonline.net APRIL 2026 Garage owners urged to step outside the workshop Barry Lawson of Lawson Autotech, winner of the 2025 Top Garage award in the 7-9 employee category, has featured on The Blend’s latest podcast to encourage independent garage owners who are too busy to attend industry events to rethink their approach to business. During the podcast, Barry reflects on the early years of running his garage in near-total isolation and explains why connecting with the wider industry proved to be a turning point. “We were just speaking to garages within a two, three, four-mile radius, and they were all doing the same thing,” said Barry. “The biggest thing was listening to everybody struggling on the same things, and we thought if everybody else is struggling, well, it must be normal”. Barry challenges the common excuses owners make for missing events, from working weekends to family commitments and stresses that sacrificing just one weekend to attend an industry event can yield invaluable golden nuggets of advice from peers who have already overcome the exact problems causing workshop bottlenecks. The reward for that time, Barry explains, is getting your life back. By learning from other owners, he was able to implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for everything from servicing to emptying the bins, creating a self-sufficient business that no longer relies on him. The Blend podcast is available on all major podcast platforms. Alongside the 115th International Women’s Day on 8 March 2026, the Top Awards has called on women in the aftermarket trade to step into the spotlight and gain well-deserved recognition for their talent and expertise. With entries for the 2026 programme now fully open, the prestigious Top Awards competition is actively encouraging women in the industry to compete for the Top Technician, Top Garage, Top Apprentice, and Service Advisor Awards, and the BEN Workplace Health & Wellbeing Award. Garages have long been maledominated, but the landscape is changing. However, organisers have reported that many women hesitate to enter because of “imposter syndrome.” The Top Awards aims to help break that barrier. “The competition isn’t just about winning,” said Hope Jepson, Marketing Manager at the Top Awards. “It’s a free health check for your skills, your business, and your confidence. We want entrants to see where they stand, celebrate their strengths, and find areas to improve.” Katie Bowes, a previous Top Apprentice finalist, knows that struggle well: “I sometimes doubted myself,” she admitted. “But competing reassured me. It proved I could do it. It changes how you see your role in the workshop, and how others see you too.” National recognition isn’t just about technical skills. Katie said taking part redefines traditional perceptions: “The title ‘apprentice’ often comes with the expectation of sweeping floors or making tea. Competing shows you’re capable of so much more.” The 2026 Top Awards offer an accessible starting point for everyone. Technicians and apprentices begin with a 15-question online multiple-choice test, while garage owners and service advisors complete an in-depth online questionnaire. Those who progress face increasingly demanding assessments, culminating in the Delphi Academy finals in November. Entries for Top Technician, Top Garage and Top Apprentice close on 15 May 2026. Entries can be submitted online at: aftermarketonline.net/competition. It’s time to step into the spotlight: Women urged to enter the 2026 Top Awards Top Awards news
News 7 www.aftermarketonline.net APRIL 2026 Independent workshops warned of the rise in friendly fraud cases Tyre and vehicle maintenance specialist Point S UK is urging independent garages to be vigilant following a significant rise in chargeback fraud, a deceptive practice it says is increasingly targeting automotive service businesses across the country. In the scam, also known as “friendly fraud”, customers make a legitimate booking, have work carried out, and pay by card, then contact their bank to reverse the payment. The practice now accounts for up to an estimated 80% of all chargebacks, according to widely cited industry research, and Point S UK is aware that several of its members have already been affected. For independent garages, the financial damage is multi-layered. As well as reversing the full cost of parts and labour, banks typically charge an additional £28 plus VAT for every disputed transaction. Then businesses face a time-consuming administrative burden when challenging the claim, taking resource away from day-to-day operations. Garages whose chargeback rate consistently exceeds 1% also risk higher card processing fees or, in the most serious cases, losing their merchant account entirely. Fraudsters actively target businesses they perceive as having weaker payment controls, making the review and strengthening of internal procedures one of the most effective deterrents a garage can deploy. Point S UK is encouraging workshops to seek specialist advice on how to best safeguard their payment processes. By staying vigilant and updating procedures, garages can protect their margins, reduce exposure to fraudulent claims, and ensure they remain a secure environment for genuine customers. Ali Yilmaz, Managing Director of Point S UK said: “This is a growing threat that independent garages cannot afford to ignore. Fraudsters are opportunistic. Businesses that are seen to have robust payment procedures in place are far less likely to be targeted. Every workshop should be aware of the risk and take the necessary steps to protect their business and their margins.” A white paper from the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has shown that 82% of personal protective equipment (PPE) products sourced from non-registered suppliers did not meet required standards during testing in 2025. BSIF testing and compliance assessments were carried out on 88 PPE products sourced from suppliers outside the BSIF Registered Safety Supplier Scheme between January 2025 and January 2026. In total, 116 individual tests were conducted, alongside detailed reviews of certification, technical documentation, and product marking. Worryingly, only 18% of the products tested met all applicable regulatory requirements. The remaining 82% failed due to technical performance failures, missing or invalid certification, inadequate documentation, incorrect product marking, or a combination of these issues. Some 43% of products tested resulted in a direct technical performance failure, however, the overall non-compliance rate rose sharply once documentation and marking issues were included. Under UK PPE regulations, products that lack valid certification, Declarations of Conformity, or correct CE/UKCA markings are deemed non-compliant regardless of laboratory performance. A detailed breakdown of the failure rates by PPE category can be found in the whitepaper, but headlines include 100% of hearing protection products tested failing to meet required standards, with similar issues found in 86% of eye and face protection products and 79% of safety footwear. By contrast, PPE sourced from BSIF Registered Safety Suppliers demonstrated a 96% compliance rate, with any issues typically limited to minor documentation matters that were addressed promptly. BSIF is urging buyers, specifiers, and dutyholders to verify supplier credentials, scrutinise documentation, and look for the BSIF Registered Safety Supplier shield as a clear indicator of compliance, transparency, and a commitment to high standards. tinyurl.com/245y423e Testing highlights widespread failures in PPE safety and compliance
News 8 www.aftermarketonline.net APRIL 2026 *6) IXHOV VWDᎭ ZHOOEHLQJ ZLWK QHZ RQ VLWH GLQLQJ H[SHULHQFH Fast-growing motor factor, GSF Car Parts, has launched a new initiative called Fully Fuelled, designed to benefit staff at its 500,000ft2 national distribution centre. The on-site canteen and dining experience, brought to the centre in a partnership with the battery manufacturer GS Yuasa, will support colleague wellbeing, sustainability, and productivity by providing subsidised healthy, freshly prepared meals. At its launch, which Aftermarket magazine was invited to attend, GSF celebrated the introduction of this new initiative with free food for employees and guests, as well as goody bags containing a set of reusable cutlery and a multi-use water bottle or coffee cup. Fully Fuelled is part of GSF’s programme of investment in its people, infrastructure, and culture on its ongoing journey to be an employer of choice. The most recent colleague survey reflected this drive with the highest satisfaction levels the business has ever seen. Later this year, the initiative will be extended with the rollout of ‘Fully Fuelled on the Road’, a state-of-the-art food truck that will visit GSF branches and trade customers nationwide. Commenting on the initiative, Sean Kerr, National Distribution Centre (NDC) General Manager at GSF, said: “It’s so good to have this support for our teams. The food is great, but it’s also the sense of pride it’s given us as we take the time to break from the day, connect and enjoy the food together.” Steve Horne, CEO of GSF Car Parts, added: “Fully Fuelled is more than a food offer, it’s how we do ourselves proud and how we want people to feel when they come to work here: valued, supported, and part of something that’s moving forward. We’re constantly investing in our people and are proud to partner with Yuasa to bring this to life for our NDC teams.” Wayne Stevens, Managing Director, GS Yuasa, also commented, “People are at the heart of every business, and the GSF NDC colleagues are literally those people powering the branch network and helping us, as a supplier, to support our customers every day. It’s great to be able to recognise that and partner on Fully Fuelled.” Shoreham Vehicle Auctions (SVA) has reported that every used EV below £10,000 found a buyer in the first 10 days of the Middle East conflict, through its weekly Monday dealer part exchange and Thursday fleet and finance sales. The company has shared that every EV received multiple bids, and wholesale prices are now rising as dealers buy cars to satisfy a growing consumer demand to reduce their motoring costs amid oil prices that have risen to over $80 a barrel. “It’s a brutal way for the used EV sector to build dealer and consumer confidence, but when an electric car is saving a consumer hundreds of pounds each month compared with petrol or diesel, then it’s a win-win for them,” explained Alex Wright, Managing Director of Shoreham Vehicle Auctions. “With no imminent sign of the Middle East conflict ending and oil prices likely to stay high, we expect this surge in demand for cheaper EVs from dealers and consumers to continue. The fuel prices might also encourage used car buyers with a larger budget to buy an electric car for the first time,” he added. The used EVs currently wholesaling at between £8-8,500 and retailing at just under or at £10,000 are the Renault Zoe, Nissan Leaf, VW e-Golf, MG5 EV, the early Hyundai Kona and Kia e-Niro. The BMW i3 is also popular, but volumes coming into the market are low. 6DOHV RI VXE e N XVHG (9V LQFUHDVH LQ UHVSRQVH WR ULVLQJ IXHO SULFHV
News 9 www.aftermarketonline.net APRIL 2026 February new car sales volume highest in 22 years, but BEV sales disappoint NEW THERMAL RANGE FROM HELLA AVAILABLE NOW COOL CONFIDENCE, YEAR ROUND HELLA is back in Thermal Management with a rapidly expanding product portfolio for all your Engine Cooling and Air Conditioning needs - bringing OE expertise where it matters most. HELLA.COM/TECHWORLD In what is traditionally the lowest volume month of the year, with car buyers holding out for the March plate change, figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show a 7.2% rise in new car registrations in February, reaching 90,100. This represents the highest February volume in 22 years. The demand was driven by private retail registrations, up 17.6% to 35,227 units, with fleet uptake growing by 1.8%. The lower-volume business segment declined by -12.7%. Fleets remained the largest source of new car registrations, accounting for 59.4% of the market. Despite the second consecutive month of year-on-year decline in Battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales – reflecting in part a strong start to 2025, when new BEV buyers sought to avoid April’s introduction of new tax rates – uptake rose 2.8% to 21,840 units, representing 24.2% of the market (compared to 25.3 in 2025). Plug-in hybrids attracted the largest growth in demand, up 43.5% to secure an 11.6% market share, while hybrid electric registrations rose 3.3% to a 13.1% share. Petrol demand also grew, by 5.2%, but share slipped to 46.5% (from 47.4% in 2025), while diesel volumes continued to decline, down 3.8% compared to 2025, with just a 4.5% share of the total market. The year-to-date BEV market share at 22.0% is just two-thirds of the 33% share mandated for 2026. So, March is set to be a pivotal month, with buyer confidence expected to weaken further amid plans to introduce a pay-per-mile tax for EVs (eVED) from 2028. And the SMMT is calling for an urgent review of the planned transition.
Business 10 www.aftermarketonline.net APRIL 2026 The UK’s independent garages are proving their commitment to professional integrity With SERMI set to go live in the UK on 1 April, the Independent Garage Association (IGA) and digital identity specialist, Digidentity, highlight the security framework that underpins the scheme. Both businesses and individual technicians must undergo stringent background checks before they can access security-related repair and maintenance information. This includes formal identity verification, criminal record checks, business validation, and ongoing compliance requirements. Only once these standards are met is a secure ‘digital passport’ issued, confirming that the garage and named technicians are authorised to work on protected vehicle systems such as immobilisers, key coding, and secure ECU functions. Digidentity, a European digital identity specialist, is the UK Trust Centre responsible for carrying out these comprehensive checks. With extensive experience in digital identity verification and regulatory compliance across Europe, Digidentity provides the independent, secure infrastructure that forms the foundation of the UK’s SERMI implementation. A significant number of UK independent garages have already successfully completed the full application and verification process. These businesses are accredited and ready to operate from 1 April. For consumers, the introduction of SERMI should provide meaningful reassurance. Research and industry commentary increasingly point to growing public concern around vehicle data security and transparency in repair processes. By requiring enhanced identity assurance and strict operational checks, SERMI-accredited garages can visibly demonstrate that they meet recognised, independently verified security standards. Stuart James, Chief Executive of the IGA, commented: “Security is the foundation of SERMI. This is not simply about access to information; it’s about demonstrating that independent garages and their technicians meet the highest standards of integrity, identity assurance, and accountability. Working alongside Digidentity as the UK Trust Centre ensures that the verification process is robust, independent, and aligned with European best practice. The independent sector is showing it is fully prepared to operate within one of the most secure access frameworks our industry has ever seen, giving manufacturers and motorists complete confidence that sensitive vehicle data is handled responsibly.” Marcel Wendt, Founder and CTO of Digidentity, added: “The launch of SERMI in the UK marks a pivotal shift toward a more secure and transparent automotive landscape. As the UK Trust Centre, Digidentity is proud to provide the rigorous verification infrastructure that makes this possible. Our role is to ensure that every ‘digital passport’ issued is backed by the highest standards of identity and business validation. “By successfully navigating this stringent process, the UK’s independent garages are proving their commitment to professional integrity. We are not just facilitating access to data; we are building a foundation of trust that protects technicians, manufacturers, and, most importantly, the motorists who rely on them.” The IGA and Digidentity are committed to continuing to support garages through the application and onboarding process, with the aim of ensuring that security, transparency, and consumer confidence remain central to the UK’s new operating landscape. Rigorous security standards underpin SERMI rollout Spotlight
Spotlight 11 www.aftermarketonline.net APRIL 2026 Lubricant standards matter more than ever Darren Frogson, Chairman of VLS, shares the latest automotive market trends and outlines how they are impacting the lubricants industry. The automotive industry is driven by regulatory shifts which impact vehicle engineering and consumer demand. In the UK, vehicle production fell by 13.6% in January 2026, as reported by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), demonstrating weakening demand for UK passenger and commercial vehicles in global markets. Global demand for electric vehicles also fell, by 3%, in January 2026, as reported by Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, with manufacturers like Stellantis announcing the reintroduction of diesel passenger cars and vans in Europe. At the same time, owners are holding onto their vehicles for longer. In the UK, nearly 50% of passenger cars are over 10 years old according to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA). All this change creates even more confusion for workshops, which deal with a wide array of vehicles in terms of age and powertrains. Each of these requires different lubricants, as the latest ultralow viscosity fluid might not be suitable for older vehicles. Technicians must be able to select products with confidence and rely on them to be fit for purpose. The work of VLS to verify lubricant specifications is more important than ever. Last year, we began a market-wide investigation into engine oils making claims against the Stellantis FPW 9.55535/03 specification, which applies to many Peugeot, Citroën, DS, Fiat, Vauxhall, Opel and Jeep models of passenger and light commercial vehicles. It was introduced by Stellantis in 2023/2024 as a mandatory requirement for many vehicles to address reliability issues in wet timing belt systems and in engines fitted with external dry belts or chains. Problems can arise if service intervals are not adhered to. Of the twelve products investigated, nine cases have been closed. VLS found that the majority of claims were valid, consisting of either rebranded approved products or oils based on the same technology as the approved formulations. In case VLS 010236, when challenged on the evidence supporting the specification, the lubricant marketer withdrew the claim. The remaining cases are expected to be closed within the next few weeks, and details will be published on the VLS website. The cases illustrate that, in the shortage of supply of widely available market general technology but high demand from vehicle owners, end-users need to be assured that the claims made on finished lubricants are valid. Following a separate investigation into complaints regarding Silverhook Ultra-V 0W-30 PCEO and Silverhook 0W-20 Fuel Efficient PCEO and their ability to meet the claimed specifications, Silverhook took positive, proactive action in both cases to address product formulations and bring the products into compliance. As the lubricants sector navigates rapid change in response to OEM design changes and the need to meet emissions legislation, it is critical that we have a robust, anonymous process that holds lubricant producers and marketers to account and protects end-users. ukla-vls.org.uk
Business 12 www.aftermarketonline.net APRIL 2026 You cannot win against AI Garages vs AI: The new complaint challenge Rebecca Pullan, Managing Director of Carmaster Garage in Harrogate, has noticed that lately, customer complaints are getting longer, more polished, and are sometimes a little too well-written. The reason could be a new character quietly entering the conversation – artificial intelligence. Here, she takes a reflective look at how AI is changing the way complaints arrive in the inbox, and why garages may need to rethink how they respond. If you haven’t reviewed your customer complaints policy recently, changes in modern life mean you need to revisit it. My old policy, I thought, was a smashing one. It was clear, I liked it, and it was successful in achieving what I wanted: to listen to the customer, investigate their concerns, put them right if we did wrong, and, if not, vigorously defend our process and procedures. Now, however, there’s a new person who’s complaining; they’re complaining with their best friend Arthur Ingram, better known to you and me as AI. Arthur writes the most gorgeous letters. They are eloquent, stylish, and he presents them so they’re easy to read. He’s definitely got a degree, if not two or three. I suspect the degree might be more English literature and drama focused rather than journalism and law, but that’s just my take on it. The storytelling is truly wonderful. He has no need for evidence; this just spoils a good story. He’s happy to rely on fables; there is no reason to be held back from a complaint by lack of facts nowadays. That’s just pure old-fashioned thinking. Arthur, meanwhile, believes in his mate, his friend, your customer. If he thinks he might have a complaint, even a whiff of one, he’s going to find justice for him. Arthur is going to back him to the hilt, 150%, because, of course, he is his best mate and that’s what best friends do. ‘Give me the quill, I will write it now’. Complaining has never been quicker or easier. Now what? Arthur writes almost factually, but not necessarily your facts; facts from other scenarios. He finds extraordinarily flawed supporting evidence, then puts it all together in a way that makes the car’s owner believe, now more than ever, everything he reads. The issue is truly a worthy complaint. It is completely robust, and they believe wholeheartedly that they’re right; they can now see the evidence in black and white, right before their eyes. And again, I’ll remind you that Arthur’s written word is just beautiful, it looks the bee’s knees. This nasty spiral is self-fulfilling. (Big caveat here, of course, Arthur and his mate, your customer, could well be right. If he is, just sort it NOW.) So you need to respond; what you could do, of course, is use Arthur too. He’s not a loyal friend. But should you? And can you make your point? Can you win your customer over in this way? I don’t think so. So, back to my complaints policy. This is what it looked like before: Step one. Acknowledge the complaint and respond, allowing time for you to properly review the evidence. We always ask for 48 hours (so you can really look at it properly, take the pressure off, and take the heat off yourself). Step two. Then, of course, robustly do that check. Look at the problem, speak to your team, check the facts, and, of course, if it is your fault, put your hand up very, very high; make it right straight away. But, and this is a BIG but, the garage is not always wrong, and the customer is not always right. It turns out that the exhaust you replaced isn’t always the reason the engine management light came on the very next day. In which case, back to the policy. Step 3. Invite the vehicle back and check your work. Because more bizarre things have happened before. The radio you fitted actually did strangely make the light go on. So thoroughly check your work. But this is where it changes. Moving on from this, I would normally ensure that all correspondence stayed on email, as much as possible. I felt confident in our processes, in the recorded phone calls, and in the CCTV. I felt confident that my emails were well written, factually correct, and that I
Business 13 www.aftermarketonline.net APRIL 2026 could get my point across this way. I no longer think this is a good process, because Arthur is a very bad friend. Arthur stabs you in the back. Arthur is persuasive even when wrong. A modern approach My suggestion to each and every one of you is: make it very clear that you will not be arguing your point by e-mail. You cannot win against AI. You cannot argue a point even when you are correct. You will waste more time than you ever have before. You must not ask Arthur to help you, either. You could argue between the two computers, but your customer will become absolutely entrenched in their belief. Plus, this is taking up more brain space than it needs to. Isn’t AI supposed to save us all time? You must be aware that everybody has got a new friend, and he’s both a friend and an enemy. Assuming that you are confident and you have confirmed that your work is good, you must no longer correspond by e-mail (or letter) as much as humanly possible. My advice to you is make yourself available – and/or your manager or your tech – absolutely everyone who’s come across the issue, at the customer’s time, whenever suits them best. Make sure you are flexible and invite them to the workshop via a call, where they can review your solid processes and clarify what you mean. They can bring Arthur, of course. A couple of top tips: if an email comes in complaining, can you see the language is beautiful? Do they use the Em dash a lot (that’s the long dash —)? If so, maybe you should consider this is probably from your customer with help from their friend Arthur Ingram. But I suggest that, moving forward, you assume that every single customer complaint and every single correspondence has been handled by Arthur. Do not keep writing; Arthur will continue forever with more and more ‘facts’. You cannot win because every correspondence will simply reinforce their view that you are wrong and they are right. So, my brand-new policy, my most up-to-date mindset, taking the new technology into consideration, is to never allow your customer to become entrenched in the row. In my view, it is so very important to keep up to date. I think I’m basing that on a principle written and honed in 1937 by the wonderful Dale Carnegie in a book called ‘How to Win Friends and Influence People’. The only way to get the best from an argument is to avoid it. Never ever allow your customer (or anyone) to become entrenched in the row. Once this has happened, you cannot, and will not, win. #! + !#+*!+*#*! #+*#! +* *#! +*
Business 14 www.aftermarketonline.net APRIL 2026 The power of flexible finance Marcus Gregory, CEO of motor trade finance specialist Payment Assist, discusses the impact of rising living costs on vehicle repairs and explains why flexible finance is becoming a valuable sales tool for independent garages. According to new insight from The Motor Ombudsman, seven in ten UK drivers are putting themselves and other road users at risk by delaying essential vehicle repairs. The combination of tightening household budgets, soaring living costs, and shrinking flexible income is seeing routine servicing and maintenance relegated to the back seat, resulting in an alarming increase in the number of unsafe vehicles on UK roads. Data from Auto Express suggests that there could be as many as 1.5 million dangerous cars on our roads with unaddressed defects, while findings from The RAC reveal that penalty charges issued for driving unsafe vehicles have increased by more than 50% since 2023. Although avoiding repairs may seem like an easy way to save money, it’s a real false economy. Car.co.uk recently highlighted to consumers how a £600 routine timing belt change can quickly escalate into a £5,000 catastrophic engine failure if the work is unnecessarily delayed. We all know that papering over the cracks is unlikely to achieve long-term financial savings. But how can independent garages communicate this message to their customers? What’s more, how can they help break the cycle of tightening budgets, spiralling concerns over household spending and delayed vehicle repairs? Well, the answer may come in the form of zero-interest finance. Flexible finance options like Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) offer an option for motorists facing unexpected repair costs, allowing them to split bills into smaller, interest-free instalments. Larger garages are already using flexible finance to help drivers navigate escalating living costs, but our own research has found that around 67% of independent garages are yet to integrate BNPL solutions and, as a result, may be turning away work. Mechanics might feel uncomfortable discussing the intricacies of flexible finance options with their customers. However, we’re seeing growth in the number of independents using third-party providers to take control of this part of the process – leaving them free to focus on the job in hand. For drivers, BNPL allows the cost of repairs and essential maintenance to be spread over manageable, interest-free instalments. For garages, it notably reduces budget barriers and makes it far easier for customers to approve essential work. Indeed, when leveraged effectively, the average business can expect to see an increase in workload and revenue by offering flexible financing options. As the independent aftermarket sector looks further ahead into 2026, tighter regulations on BNPL are set to come into force soon. Providers will face greater legal scrutiny to ensure customers are treated fairly, with lenders required to conduct more rigorous due diligence. It’s all about being responsible and transparent. Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), we are ‘Consumer Duty’ focused and undertake affordability checks to protect our customers from overstretching their finances. This new era of fair, flexible finance could unlock significant potential in the motor repair sector, giving customers greater confidence in using financing options. It’s safe to suggest that the trilemma of tightening household budgets, soaring living costs and shrinking flexible income will be with us for some time. However, for independent garages, flexible finance can offer the opportunity to attract and retain customers despite economic pressures, while ensuring that more vehicles are kept in a roadworthy condition. www.payment-assist.co.uk Marcus Gregory, CEO of Payment Assist
FEBEST is in Search by vehicle or OE reference Access part data in one environment Add FEBEST to your regular workflow Direct system integration allows: Live synchronisation of prices and stock from FEBEST warehouse Order placement directly from your system Everyone wants to get what they paid for. Aftermarket is independently verified by ABC, because we want our advertisers to know they’re getting the exposure they’ve been promised. 17,274 Average Circulation per issue, July 22 - June 23. ABC. See it. Believe it. Trust it. BE WISE WHEN YOU ADVERTISE www.abc.org.uk To advertise call Angela Lyus on 01732 370340 or email angela@aftermarket.co.uk Ad - Be Wise when you advertise - House Ad (90x129).indd 1 24/06/2024 10:55:14 21,945 Average Circulation per issue, July 2023 - June 2024 www.ms-motorservice.com OIL LEVEL AND OIL PRESSURE SENSORS – NEW TO THE SENSOR RANGE
Technical 16 www.aftermarketonline.net APRIL 2026 A remanufactured solution might be the answer to Mercedes fault code P07B700 Remanufacturing specialist Actronics takes Aftermarket readers through the process of resolving the Mercedes fault code P07B700 on the 9G-Tronic automatic transmission. The Mercedes Benz 9G Tronic automatic transmission (type 725.0, NAG3) uses an advanced hydraulic system that is fully monitored by the transmission control unit (TCU). The oil pressure sensor plays a key role in the system, continuously measuring the operating pressure within the transmission. If the signal from this sensor is outside the expected values, the P07B700 ‘Hydraulic Pressure Sensor: Signal Not Plausible’ fault code is stored. This fault code indicates that the TCU receives an illogical, intermittent or inconsistent pressure reading from the internal pressure sensor. This could indicate an electrical problem, such as a cable break, high resistance, or a short circuit. It could be due to a defective pressure sensor or internal contamination that is causing the sensor to transmit incorrect values. It could also be down to hydraulic problems, such as pressure loss or excessive pressure, or even a malfunction in the mechatronics itself. Since the pressure sensor plays a crucial role in determining shift points and clutch pressures, an error in this signal quickly leads to irregularities in the transmission control. Symptoms When the 9G-Tronic no longer receives a reliable pressure signal, several symptoms may occur. The vehicle could enter limp mode, experience hard or shaky shifting, irregular shifting, or clutch slippage. The transmission’s response to throttle or gear changes could be delayed. There may be a fault message on the dashboard, stating ‘Transmission malfunction - visit workshop’. The car may also stall in one gear. And there is likely to be illogical or missing pressure values in live data. In most cases, the transmission immediately switches to a safety mode to prevent further damage. Resolving fault code P07B700 The solution depends on the cause, but the following steps are the most common approach: O Check wiring and connectors. Check for corrosion, moisture, loose pins and cable damage. Problems can arise particularly around the mechatronic connector, due to heat and vibration. O Check ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid). A low fluid level, heavily contaminated fluid or metal shavings can affect the sensor. Severe contamination may indicate wear in the transmission. O Compare hydraulic pressure values. Live data can be used to determine whether the measured pressure corresponds to the requested pressure. Irregular discrepancies indicate internal hydraulic leaks, stuck valves, or pressure problems in the mechatronics. O Test the pressure sensor. The sensor is integrated into the mechatronics system. If it is broken, it almost always leads to implausible signals. The signal drops out with temperature. The signal remains stuck at a single value. Or the signal fluctuates without reason. O Software update/reset adaptive values. Sometimes, incorrect pressure regulation can be corrected with software. O Remanufacturing of the Mechatronics/TCU. If the pressure sensor itself is broken or there is electronic damage to the TCU, remanufacturing is the best solution. Automotive remanufacturing specialist ACTRONICS professionally remanufactures the Bosch 9G-Tronic 725.0 (NAG3) TCU/mechatronics, and it is fully tested before dispatch. The presence of the P07B700 fault codes indicates a problem with the pressure sensor signal within the 9G-Tronic transmission. This can be caused by electrical faults, defective sensors, contamination or hydraulic abnormalities. Because the pressure sensor is crucial to the automatic transmission’s entire pressure and shifting strategy, this error quickly leads to emergency mode or harsh shifting. Remanufacturing the mechatronics often offers a sustainable solution. tinyurl.com/dwc4445t
Technical 17 www.aftermarketonline.net APRIL 2026 A routine service, an unexpected misfire: Lessons from a Porsche 911 Why would a Porsche 911 Carrera 4S start misfiring on cylinder four following a routine spark plug replacement? ALLDATA and Porsche’s OEM repair data provided the answer. Following a standard spark plug change, a Porsche 911 Carrera 4S (Type 992, 3.0L) returned to the workshop after the driver noticed poor engine performance. The fault code was ‘P0304 – Misfire Cylinder 4’. At first glance, it appeared the routine service was conducted correctly, but the issue turned out to be an underlying one. The technician consulted the ALLDATA Info Centre to review all manufacturerspecific installation procedures for the spark plugs. The documentation showed that Porsche provides strict guidelines for this job, especially regarding installation orientation, lubrication and handling of the delicate ceramic insulators. The solution According to Porsche specifications, spark plugs need to be installed with the electrode positioned at ‘12 o’clock’. This precise alignment ensures uniform flame front distribution, resulting in clean and efficient engine operation. Additionally, a specified lubricant must be applied to the ceramic insulator to reduce friction during threading and prevent microcracks. Using the correct tools is equally important; even slight deviations in the threading angle or excessive lateral force can cause fine hairline cracks in the ceramic body. These are often invisible but have noticeable consequences. In this case, upon inspection of the removed spark plug from cylinder four, the technician noticed a barely visible crack in the insulator. This minor damage triggered the misfires and rough engine performance. With a new, correctly installed spark plug, the issue was resolved. The six-cylinder engine ran smoothly and evenly once again. This example illustrates that even simple maintenance tasks today require maximum precision, care and accurate technical information. Small deviations can lead to consequences – from minor misfires to catastrophic engine damage. With access to original data and practical support, ALLDATA helps workshops avoid mistakes, identify root causes and carry out repairs confidently, and covers over 165,000 vehicle combinations; around 97% of all vehicles on Europe’s roads. tinyurl.com/2335y3hx For peace of mind always use a Garage Equipment Association member. GEA accredited engineers work to an industry code of conduct. Your assurance their skills and knowledge have been independently assessed. IS YOUR EQUIPMENT ENGINEER GEA ACCREDITED? Ask your engineer for his accreditation card ! The Upholders of Industry standards since 1945 The Garage Equipment Association www.gea.co.uk GEA ACCREDITED ENGINEER Name Company Discipline Exp Date ID Number XX123456 XX123456 XX123456 XX123456 XX123456
Garage visit 18 www.aftermarketonline.net APRIL 2026 From TV crime scenes to real world challenges: A visit to Brighton MoT Centre In this month’s Garage Visit, John Shepherd visits the Brighton MoT Centre, where, amongst other discoveries, he hears how current international tensions are raising concerns for the business. Geopolitical tensions are not the first thing that comes to mind when you’re focused on running a garage. However, as Aftermarket went to press, escalating military action in the Middle East and the impact on the global supply chain were very much on the mind of Adam Imanpour, a director of the Brighton MoT Centre. As soon as bombs began dropping on Iran — followed by retaliatory missiles striking oil facilities and other energy infrastructure across the region — Adam’s thoughts turned to what all this would mean for the business he manages with his semi-retired father, Adel. Their first thoughts were for ordinary folk caught up in the conflict and their own family connections in Iran, where Adel was born. Then thoughts turned to the more immediate, likely impact on the business due to soaring oil prices. “All this means rising petrol prices, and straight away there will be fewer motorists using their cars,” Adam said. He pointed out that more motorists would put the brakes on using their vehicles, which would directly affect business. Then there are the inevitable rising servicing costs to consider, as the Middle East supply chain disruption hits vital workshop products such as oil, lubes, and related automotive products. “It’s good for people to know the impact such circumstances can have on a small business,” Adam added. Family tradition Adel started the business in 1990 after redundancy and following a career as a chemical engineer in Iran. In opening the garage, he continued a family tradition of mechanics spanning generations. Today, the garage’s workshop staff comprises three, including Adam and Adel as directors. Adam has a background in the humanities but has worked at the garage for 10 years. The garage does not handle highly complex jobs due to its size and resources. However, the team offers a comprehensive range of traditional services, including standard vehicle servicing and repairs, brake pads and diagnostics using tools such as those provided through Snap-on and MoT testing. Servicing of electric vehicles
Garage visit 19 www.aftermarketonline.net APRIL 2026 undertaken at the garage includes coolant, brake pads, and brake fluid replacement, with one member of staff having received relevant EV training to date. The garage is located in a former car showroom, with the workshop at the back and what is now a neighbouring scooter shop occupying what previously served as the showroom. Situated on Beaconsfield Road, a busy commuter route in and out of the seaside town, Brighton MoT Centre lies in the shadow of the imposing London Road Viaduct – a magnificent 27-arch Victorian railway structure dating back to the mid-1800s. The business also has ‘celebrity status’, having served as the setting for a fictional crime scene in an episode of the TV detective series Grace. Scheduling of the shoot was organised around quieter periods to minimise disruption, and the production team compensated the garage for its starring role. Adam is low-key about the garage’s brush with TV stardom, but said feedback was good from some customers who recognised the location and later mentioned the appearance on television. Back in the real world, present-day issues facing the business include the debate swirling around the MoT price cap. Adam said he supports increasing the cap, noting that the current rates have not kept pace with inflation. “We have to be realistic and understand that £40 charged in 2008 would not buy you the same in 2026.” As reported by Aftermarket previously, nearly two-thirds of garage owners are in favour of increasing the MoT price cap, according to analysis published earlier this year by BookMyGarage. However, the comparison site also noted that tests performed by workshops on the BookMyGarage platform had been discounted over the past two years. MoT pricing at Adam’s garage has increased from £40 pre-pandemic to £50 in recent years, reflecting higher costs and the impact of COVID-19related business disruption. But Adam said the garage no longer offers bundled discounts on MoT and servicing, a practice discontinued in the last decade. Meanwhile, free on-street parking that was available outside the garage in the early days of the business is no more. Over the years, parking restrictions have increased, and the situation has become increasingly challenging for customers dropping off their cars – and for Adam and his team getting vehicles into the workshop. “Stricter enforcement by the council is a key operational challenge for us in terms of customers being able to visit without incurring parking fines. It’s a shame, really, because if you’re busy and you’re popular and you’re doing the right thing as a business, it would be good to see the local council taking that into account,” Adam concluded. The business also has celebrity status
TOPGARAGE TOPTECHNICIAN TOPAPPRENTICE CelebratingAftermarket Excellence TEST YOURSELF AGAINST THE BEST RECOGNISING OUTSTANDING INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES YOUR CHANCE TO STAND OUT Top Technician is the UK’s leading independent test of automotive skill. Designed to challenge and develop professional technicians, the competition combines online knowledge testing with hands-on fault-finding at Semi Finals and Finals Day. It’s not about speed — it’s about accuracy, process and professionalism. Entrants receive valuable feedback, industry recognition and the chance to benchmark themselves against the very best in the trade. Top Garage celebrates the independent workshops that set the standard for our industry. Open to garages of all sizes — from mobile mechanics to multi-site operations — the competition looks beyond spanners and tools, assessing how great businesses are built and run. Finalists are judged on leadership, customer care, technical capability, training, culture and performance. It’s a chance to showcase what makes your business different — and to gain recognition that customers, staff and suppliers respect. Top Apprentice is all about recognising apprentices who are serious about their future in the automotive trade. Open to Level 2 and Level 3 apprentices from colleges, academies and training centres across the UK, this competition gives you the opportunity to prove what you know — and what you’re capable of becoming. It’s designed to challenge you in a supportive way, testing your technical understanding, problem-solving skills and approach to the job. www.toptechtopgarage.co.uk
From first-round online assessments to real-world diagnostic challenges, Top Technician rewards those who think clearly under pressure and work to the highest standards. If you want to test your skills, grow your reputation and stand out in the workshop — this is the competition to enter. Many finalists proudly display their Top Garage status on their websites and promotional material, using it as a powerful mark of credibility. If your garage is doing things the right way, Top Garage is your opportunity to prove it. Along the way, you’ll gain valuable feedback, confidence and recognition that can help set you apart early in your career. Whether you’re just starting out or already finding your feet in the workshop, Top Apprentice is your chance to be noticed, build your reputation and show the industry you mean business. Step up. Get recognised. Shape your future. www.toptechtopgarage.co.uk BEN Workplace Health & Wellbeing Award recognise automotive businesses that actively support the physical, mental and financial wellbeing of their teams. Celebrating best practice across the sector, the awards highlight organisations that create healthier, more supportive workplaces and put people at the heart of their business. SERVICE ADVISOR celebrating individuals who excel at being the vital link between workshop and customer. The award highlights service advisors who deliver outstanding experiences, build trust and play a key role in the success of their independent garage businesses. Top Awards 2026 in partnership with
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