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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 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 How much is an MOT really worth? Few topics seem to divide the independent garage sector quite like MOT pricing. On one side are those arguing that the current maximum fee of £54.85 has become unsustainable. Indeed, if the fee had kept pace with inflation since its freeze in 2010, it would cost a little over £90. So the maximum price today represents a real terms discount of over £35. With increasing labour costs, investment in equipment, premises, training and compliance, it’s easy to understand why many testers believe the economics simply no longer stack up. The strength of feeling has become clear in recent weeks, with calls from the IAAF for the government to introduce a minimum MOT fee to prevent what many see as a race to the bottom. Yet the market tells a different story. It’s still possible to find MOTs advertised for £35 or less, often by larger national groups with the buying power and workshop capacity to absorb the loss. Many independents simply can’t compete with that pricing without taking a hit. That, in turn, fuels another long-running debate. When an MOT is sold as a loss leader, does it create pressure to recover the margin elsewhere? Some within the industry believe it can encourage unnecessary repair work or marginal failure decisions. Others strongly reject that suggestion, pointing out that the overwhelming majority of testers act professionally and with integrity. Importantly, there is little hard evidence either way, with much of the discussion based on anecdotal experience rather than data. So, what is the answer? Should minimum pricing be introduced? Should the maximum MOT fee be increased? Or should garages simply be free to charge whatever the market will bear? I’d genuinely like to know what you think. We’re planning an MOT-focussed feature for the next issue of Aftermarket, due to be published in September after a very welcome summer break. If you’ve got a view – whether you’re an independent garage, a fast-fit operator, an MOT tester or somewhere in between –I’d like to hear it. Because until the industry can agree on what an MOT is actually worth, this debate isn’t going away. I can be reached at chris@aftermarket.co.uk and I will be interested to hear from all sides of the debate. In the meantime, enjoy this issue, and enjoy the summer. Chris Callander Editor
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Contents Subscribe to News Top Awards latest 6 Auto Windscreens sees ADAS uplift 7 Illegal R1234yf cylinders identified 8 Ben sets ambitious targets 9 Spotlight UKGBE highlights 10 Opinion Act now or risk being left behind 12-13 Oil is no longer a commodity 14 Business Make every trade show count 15 Technical Diagnostic Doctor tackles EVAP 16-17 Find evidence for your diagnostic 18-19 In focus Products 22-23 Automechanika Frankfurt preview 24-26 Steering & suspension 28-30 Software 32 The modern workshop 34-36 Cleaner diesel 38-43 Cooling 44 Plus On the move 56 6 10 12 15 16 22 44 12 22 30 42 48
6 The Top Awards has secured OMODA & JAECOO UK as a headline sponsor for 2026, marking a significant milestone for the competition. The agreement sees OMODA &J AECOO become the first vehicle manufacturer brands to support the awards at headline sponsor level. The addition of OMODA & JAECOO further strengthens an already impressive line-up of industry backing for this year’s competition. The manufacturer joins a respected group of confirmed headline sponsors, including Snap-on, TOPDON UK, Varta, Delphi, JLM Liquid Tools and Garage Hive. The sponsorship reflects the awards growing profile and the increasingly important role the competition plays in recognising technical excellence while helping to develop the next generation of aftermarket talent. Explaining the company’s decision to become involved, Luke Garratt, Training Specialist at OMODA & JAECOO UK Ltd, said: “As two of the UK’s fastestgrowing automotive brands, OMODA & JAECOO are building a nationwide dealer network and investing heavily in technical capability. Supporting the Top Awards allows us to recognise the technicians already delivering exceptional standards, whilst helping attract and develop the skilled people our expanding network will need.” Looking ahead to this year’s competition, Luke added: “We hope to bring the perspective of a fast-growing, technology-led vehicle manufacturer, whilst encouraging more technicians to take part “We also want to create further development and employment opportunities for our own network.” The 2026 Top Awards are now well underway, with Round 1 of the Top Technician competition having closed in June. Those who successfully made it through are now tackling Round 2, which runs until 31 July, as the search continues for the industry’s next Top Technician, Top Garage and Top Apprentice winners. Widely regarded as one of the most respected accolades in the aftermarket, the competition is designed not just to identify the very best, but to encourage technicians, apprentices and businesses to measure themselves against the highest standards in the sector. While a place in the live finals at Delphi Academy in November remains a major incentive, many past participants say the greatest benefit comes from the journey itself. Ant Jhally, a judge in the 2025 Top Garage competition, believes the process encourages businesses to take a closer look at how they operate. “It’s an awesome way to audit your own business,” said Ant. “By entering, you have to look at your operations with fresh eyes. It forces you to evaluate things you might otherwise take for granted.” Now in its second year, the Top Apprentice category continues to build momentum. With a strong focus on nurturing future talent, the competition is already helping young technicians develop confidence and ambition. Troy Smith, one of last year’s standout Top Apprentice finalists, believes taking part has already had a significant impact on his career. “I didn’t expect to make it as far as I did, but it’s been a massive confidence boost,” said Troy. “I met people I never would have otherwise, and it’s already made me set my sights on Top Technician once I’m qualified.” Alongside the technical and businessfocused awards, the BEN Workplace Health & Wellbeing Award continues to recognise businesses that place the welfare of their teams at the heart of their operations, highlighting the importance of creating healthy and sustainable workplaces. Top Technician and Top Apprentice entrants are now working towards securing a place in the Round 3 online essay assessments, which take place between 3 and 21 August. The results will determine who progresses to the inperson semi-finals on 3 October, where the top 10 competitors in each category will tackle a demanding series of 20-minute live fault-finding challenges. For Top Garage entrants, the current stage will determine which businesses move on to the online semi-finals, running from 11 July to 14 August. Successful entrants will then be invited to present their businesses to the judging panel at the live finals at Delphi Academy on 14 November. For those who missed this year’s entry deadline, organisers are encouraging members of the industry to attend the live finals and see the competition in action. Witnessing the standard on display could provide all the inspiration needed to step forward and enter in 2027. The race for Top Awards glory gathers pace OMODA & JAECOO join Top Awards as headline sponsors
News 7 Entries are now officially open for The Blend Awards 2026. The winners will be announced during the evening awards ceremony on Saturday, 10 October 2026, at the Eastside Rooms in Birmingham, hosted by behavioural science and marketing expert Rory Sutherland. Taking place as part of The Blend 2026, the awards celebrate businesses and individuals who go beyond day-today operations to raise standards, strengthen their teams, and deliver consistently high levels of service. From operational improvements to customer experience innovation, the awards aim to recognise real-world impact across workshops of every size. Entries can be submitted at www.theblend.events/ awards2026 and the deadline is 23:59 on Tuesday, 4 August. Finalists will be announced on 11 September, with winners to be named at The Blend on 10 October. Entries open for The Blend Awards 2026 ADAS calibrations increase by more than a quarter in just 12 months Auto Windscreens has reported a 30% increase in the number of ADAS calibrations it carried out as part of its windscreen replacement work over the last 12 months. While this growth partly reflects an overall 7% increase in windscreen repairs and replacements across the business, it has also shared that more than 40% of its front windscreen replacement jobs now include an ADAS calibration. Claire Church, Director of Service Delivery at Auto Windscreens commented: “The influx of new models with the latest technology, especially from China, has helped to drive the ADAS market to new heights. “The ADAS market is likely to just keep on growing – new cars sold in the EU and Northern Ireland must be equipped with specific ADAS as standard. Although this isn’t yet mandatory in the UK, many vehicles on the road now include at least one ADAS feature. It’s more important than ever that we work hard to raise awareness among drivers and the industry of the importance of proper calibration – undertaken at the right time and under the right conditions.” Fleet Guy has hosted an event which brought together senior leaders from across the UK fleet sector to explore the future of fleet service, maintenance and repair and to put a focus on the importance of strengthening collaboration between fleet operators and the independent aftermarket. Tim Guidotti, Founder of Fleet Guy, said: “It was a key milestone for us to get as many of the UK’s top 50 contract hire and leasing companies as possible in the room. Together, they look after 3.5 million vehicles in the UK, so their input is critical to evolving the partnerships between independent garages and fleet companies.” Fleet Guy also used the event to share early details of the upcoming Fleet Guy Audit Hub – a new compliance platform designed to give garages a single place to report their compliance status and to give fleet companies confidence when selecting independent workshops for SMR work. There was agreement at the event that closer partnership is needed and that the Audit Hub will help to achieve this. 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 /HDGLQJ ᎯHHW companies join industry engagement opportunity
News 8 The UK-headquartered aftermarket hot-end emissions products manufacturer, BM Catalysts, is urging policymakers to consider the broader implications of the UK’s forthcoming steel trade measures as it fears knockon effects throughout the automotive aftermarket. The Government has confirmed that, from 1 July 2026, tariff-free steel import volumes will be significantly reduced, with imports exceeding quota levels subject to a 50% tariff. While the intention is to strengthen domestic steel production and address global market pressures, businesses operating in highly specialised manufacturing sectors face several practical considerations. BM Catalysts relies on carefully specified raw materials that meet the technical demands of modern emissions control systems. A key example is 409-grade stainless steel, which has long been the industry standard for hot end exhaust products due to its heat resistance, durability and suitability for automotive applications. Maintaining consistent access to these materials is essential. Any disruption to supply, reduced availability or significant increase in procurement costs has the potential to increase manufacturing costs, extend lead times and place greater pressure on inventory planning, all of which may ultimately affect UK manufacturers and their customers. As discussions around implementation continue, BM Catalysts believes that ongoing engagement between government and manufacturing stakeholders is essential to ensuring the UK’s industrial strategy supports the entire value chain. A balanced approach can help safeguard domestic capability, maintain supply chain stability and protect the businesses that underpin the UK’s world-class manufacturing and automotive aftermarket sectors. New UK steel trade measures risk unintended consequences for the automotive aftermarket Illegal R1234yf cylinders LGHQWLᎮ HG LQ WKH 8. PDUNHW National Refrigerants has identified illegal and potentially non-compliant R1234yf refrigerant cylinders circulating within the UK market. Investigations indicate that these cylinders originated from China and may contain illegally manufactured or otherwise unauthorised R1234yf refrigerant. Analysis suggests that the refrigerant may lack important stabilising additives designed to protect charging equipment and hose assemblies, increasing the risk of contamination, fouling, and damage to service equipment. Further concerns have been identified regarding cylinder compliance. Reported issues include conflicting tare weight markings, missing contents weight information, and product labelling and traceability details that may not meet UK compliance requirements. Potential noncompliance may also exist in relation to HMRC import regulations and UK Weights & Measures requirements. In addition, the cylinders do not display the required UK Transportable Pressure Equipment (TPE) conformity marking (ѩ). Cylinders manufactured or placed into service in the UK after 2021 must carry this marking and, without it, cannot legally be used in the UK. National Refrigerants is strongly advising businesses not to purchase or use these cylinders and to report any suspected illegal or non-compliant products to the relevant authorities, including Trading Standards and the Environment Agency. Protect your business, equipment and customers by purchasing only legal and compliant refrigerants from trusted, reputable suppliers such as National Refrigerants.
News 9 Untitled-1 1 16/06/2026 11:32 Automotive industry charity, Ben’s, Year in Numbers report showed a growing demand for health, wellbeing and financial support across the sector. Over the year covered by the report, Ben responded to 14,377 enquiries for support. A key standout was the growth in the number of people approaching it with multiple issues at once. While the figures demonstrate the impact Ben is making, they also highlight the unmet need that still exists across the industry. The most visited online support content reflected some of the biggest challenges currently affecting automotive people. The charity’s mental health section received 4,167 views, with SilverCloud, its digital mental health support platform, receiving 3,174 views. The website’s sections on interview skills guidance, redundancy rights, and financial advice were also among the most visited. Ben has also launched a new mental health self-assessment tool on its website in response to growing demand for support in this area. Rachel Clift, CEO at Ben, said: “Our latest report shows both the difference Ben is making and the growing challenges facing people across the automotive industry. While we’re proud of the impact we’re having, we also know the need across the industry is far greater than the number of people currently accessing our services. Too many people still don’t know Ben is here for them. Our ambition is to treble our charitable impact by 2030 so we can help far more people earlier, before challenges escalate into crisis.” The full report can be found at tinyurl.com/3kcmueww Automotive industry charity, Ben sets ambitious targets
Spotlight 10 A reported record attendance marks a successful UK Garage & Bodyshop Event Garage owners, technicians and bodyshop professionals descended on the NEC Birmingham early in June as UK Garage & Bodyshop Event attracted what organisers described as its biggest attendance to date. According to organisers, 6,098 visitors attended the 2026 exhibition – an 18% increase on the previous event – with more than 200 exhibitors showcasing the latest workshop equipment, diagnostic tools, replacement parts and business solutions. Away from the exhibition floor, the seminar programme tackled many of the issues currently shaping the aftermarket. SERMI featured prominently, giving garages practical guidance on secure access to manufacturer repair information, while other sessions explored Right to Repair, access to vehicle data, the future of MOT testing and the skills needed to support increasingly complex vehicle technologies. The event also highlighted the industry’s commitment to attracting new talent, with organisers reporting that more than 250 students attended through the official Student Programme to learn about career opportunities across the automotive aftermarket. Joanne Knowles, Event Director at Messe Frankfurt UK, said the event reflected “the strength, expertise and ambition of the UK aftermarket”, adding that bringing together suppliers, technicians, workshop owners and industry leaders created opportunities for collaboration and knowledge-sharing that could not be replicated elsewhere. The opening day concluded with the Automechanika Birmingham Garage Awards, hosted by the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF), which celebrated some of the UK’s leading independent garages and aftermarket professionals. Among the evening’s winners, Uckfield Motor Services was named Garage of the Year, while EAC Telford collected the Multi-Site Garage and Best Marketing Garage awards. Cleevely Motors secured the Single-Site Garage title, Brian Hale of Mechtronic was recognised as Auto-Mechanik of the Year, and Jacob Patterson received the Young Mechanik award. Darren Knight of Mike Knight Autos Birmingham was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contribution to the industry. IAAF Chief Executive Mark Field said the record number and quality of entries demonstrated the professionalism and innovation that exists throughout the independent. The exhibition’s organisers also reported strong exhibitor engagement, saying that 78% of exhibition space for the next UK Garage & Bodyshop Event in 2028 had already been reserved. Before then, the sector will reconvene at Automechanika Birmingham, which returns to the NEC from 8–10 June 2027. Growing interest in ADAS calibration and advanced diagnostics was one of the clear themes to emerge from this year’s UK Garage & Bodyshop Event, backed up by reports from HELLA UK of strong engagement from independent garages looking to develop new technical capabilities and retain more high-value work in-house. The company’s headline launch was the UK debut of the Hella Gutmann CSC-Tool PRO, a nextgeneration ADAS calibration system that automates many of the setup and calibration processes, helping workshops complete calibrations more quickly and accurately. HELLA also demonstrated its recently launched mega macs PLUS diagnostic platform, which provides advanced multi-brand diagnostics within a Windows-based tablet environment, alongside its established mega macs S 20 and mega macs X systems. Visitors were also introduced to macsRemote Services, enabling garages to access specialist remote coding and programming support on a pay-as-you-go basis. Julian Goulding, Head of Garage Equipment at Hella Gutmann, said the strong interest in the CSC-Tool PRO reflected the growing demand for practical solutions that make ADAS calibration faster, simpler and more accessible for independent workshops. The level of engagement throughout the show suggests that technologies once viewed as specialist are rapidly becoming mainstream investments as independent garages look to keep pace with increasingly complex vehicles. HELLA showcases new ADAS and diagnostic technology
Spotlight 11 The hidden risks of part-worn tyres The Motor Ombudsman used the recent UK Garage & Bodyshop event as the platform to launch its latest tyre safety campaign. Chris Callander spoke to Paul Brown from Lindleys Autocentres, the campaign’s spokesperson, about the vital role independent garages play in helping motorists understand why a cheap tyre is not always good value. With household budgets under continued pressure, it is no surprise that many motorists are looking for ways to reduce the cost of maintaining their vehicles. For some, that means considering part-worn tyres. On the surface, they can appear to offer easy savings, but independent garages have an important role to play in helping customers understand that the cheapest option is not always the best value. That message sits at the heart of The Motor Ombudsman’s WORN-WARN campaign, which recently received the 2026 TyreSafe Online and Social Media Award in recognition of its efforts to raise awareness of the risks associated with buying second-hand tyres. The campaign, backed by TyreSafe and supported by Motor Ombudsmanaccredited Lindleys Autocentres, aims to provide motorists and garages with practical information to encourage safer purchasing decisions. The campaign follows research commissioned by The Motor Ombudsman, which found that nearly one-third of UK adults would consider buying part-worn tyres if their current tyres needed replacing, with twothirds of those citing cost as the main motivation. Among motorists aged 25 to 34, that figure rises to almost half. At the same time, 69% admitted they did not know what a tyre’s Department of Transport (DOT) code meant, while 43% were unaware that, legally, part-worn tyres must be permanently marked as such. For Paul Brown, General Manager of the Tyre Division at Lindleys Autocentres, those findings reflect what technicians see every day. “People often judge a tyre by its tread depth alone,” he explained. “What they can’t see is its history. A tyre could have suffered impact damage, been involved in an accident, been repaired incorrectly or simply deteriorated with age.” Paul pointed out that tyres can still appear to have plenty of usable tread despite being more than a decade old, with cracking and degradation only becoming apparent to a trained eye. Even tyres that have been stored rather than used should be carefully inspected once they are more than five years old. While part-worn tyres are legal when sold in accordance with strict regulations, Paul believes many motorists are unaware of what they should be looking for. Correct labelling, tyre age and evidence of previous repairs are all factors that should be checked before a purchase is even considered. For many independent garages, that creates an opportunity to add value beyond simply fitting replacement tyres. Every service, MOT or tyre inspection provides a chance to explain how to read a DOT code, identify signs of deterioration and discuss why the unknown history of a part-worn tyre can present a risk. Paul also believes garages should help customers understand that a brand-new budget tyre will often represent a safer option than a premium part-worn tyre with an unknown past. “We’re not telling anybody what they can and can’t buy,” he said. “It’s about giving people the information they need to make the right choice.” As cost pressures continue to influence motorists’ buying decisions, conversations like these are likely to become increasingly important. Campaigns such as WORN-WARN provide garages with useful educational resources, but it is the advice given across the workshop counter that will ultimately help customers make informed decisions about one of the most safety-critical components on their vehicle. www.themotorombudsman.org/Tyres Paul Brown, General Manager of the Tyre Division at Lindleys Autocentres
Opinion 12 Act now or risk being left behind As the vehicle parc evolves with a growing number of vehicles which are electrified, connected, or equipped with advanced technologies entering the market, Nick Connor, CEO of the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), argues that workshops that invest now will be best placed to win work, retain customers and protect their businesses in the future. If you’re an independent workshop owner, it’s easy to understand why EV and advanced vehicle technology training isn’t always at a top priority. Right now, you’re dealing with rising costs, recruitment challenges, productivity pressures and customers who need their vehicles back as quickly as possible. And for independents, many of those vehicles will be petrol or diesel and probably only feature limited advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). When faced with a choice between investing in training and equipment that generates immediate revenue versus training that may not deliver an obvious return for months or even years, many businesses understandably focus on the here and now. The problem is that the vehicle parc isn’t standing still. While many workshops are responding to today’s workload, the vehicles entering the market are steadily changing the shape of tomorrow’s. The market has already changed In April, the UK passed a major milestone with the registration of its two millionth battery electric vehicle (BEV). In May, BEVs accounted for 27.3% of all new car registrations, while hybrids and plug-in hybrids represented a further 26.7% of the market. Together, electrified vehicles now account for more than half of all new vehicle registrations in the UK. This matters because today’s new vehicles are tomorrow’s aftermarket workload. Every vehicle entering the market will eventually require servicing, maintenance, diagnostics, repair and calibration. Increasingly, those vehicles will contain high-voltage systems, sophisticated electronics and connectivity and advanced driver assistance systems ADAS that require specialist knowledge and safe working practices. The question is no longer whether these vehicles will reach independent workshops. The question is whether your workshop will be ready when they do. In reality, many workshops are already working on vehicles that incorporate high-voltage systems, connectivity, hybrid technology or safetycritical ADAS features. Modern vehicles are evolving rapidly. ADAS technology that was once limited to premium vehicles is now commonplace across the market. Features such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control and collision avoidance systems are becoming standard. While there is a natural tendency to delay investment until demand becomes impossible to ignore, that approach carries its own risks. By the time EVs represent a significant proportion of a workshop’s workload, trained technicians may be harder to recruit, training demand may be higher and competitors may already have established a reputation for servicing these vehicles. Customers who have found a workshop they trust rarely move back simply because a competitor eventually catches up. ADAS is changing the conversation While much of the industry focus currently is on electrification, ADAS may prove to be an equally significant challenge for the aftermarket. Unlike many traditional vehicle systems, ADAS is directly linked to safety-critical vehicle functions. Incorrect calibration following a windscreen replacement, suspension repair, wheel alignment or accident repair can affect how a vehicle brakes, steers or responds to hazards. This is no longer simply a technical issue. It is a customer safety issue. As these systems become more widespread, workshops need to be able to Nick Connor, CEO of the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI)
Opinion 13 BE PART OF THE MISSION TO SECURE THE FUTURE OF YOUR INDUSTRY We're a charity built by this industry to bring the next generation of talent into it — supporting apprentices, helping employers take them on, and making automotive repair visible to young people who've never considered it as a career. When you become an AutoRaise member, you're part of that mission. And we'll help you shout about it. Your membership includes: Your AutoRaise Member badge and digital assets for your website, email and social media Ready-made social media templates — post, tag us, and we'll amplify you to our network Full access to the Member Toolkit with modules covering recruitment, funding, onboarding, mentoring, HR and more Access to the AutoRaise member community forum Join the businesses investing in the future of the trade. Membership is just £14.99/month. autoraise.co.uk/membership demonstrate that the people working on them have the appropriate competence and training. That makes qualifications and recognised standards increasingly important from both a business and liability perspective. The growing importance of technician competence is also attracting attention at policy level. In May, the IMI brought together industry leaders, legal experts, fleet operators and Shadow Secretary of State for Transport Richard Holden MP to discuss the future of workforce safety in the automotive sector. The panel unanimously concluded that, as vehicles become increasingly reliant on electrification, connectivity, automation and advanced safety systems, there is a growing need for demonstrable, auditable competence across the workforce. Participants called for the government to consider making recognised standards such as IMI TechSafe mandatory across key technology areas, including EVs, ADAS, connected vehicles and alternative fuels. The discussion also highlighted a broader shift taking place across the industry, one which sees competence no longer simply a matter of professional development. Instead, it is increasingly being viewed as a critical element of road safety, consumer confidence and regulatory readiness. Too often, training is viewed as a cost, but the most successful businesses tend to view it differently. IMI TechSafe provides a recognised benchmark that demonstrates technician competence across modern vehicle technologies, including EVs, hybrids, hydrogenpowered vehicles, connected and ADASequipped vehicles. For workshop owners, it delivers several benefits. It provides confidence that technicians can work safely on increasingly complex vehicles. It helps demonstrate that the business is taking reasonable steps to manage risk and meet professional standards. It provides reassurance to customers and insurers. Most importantly, it enables workshops to continue accepting work as the vehicle parc evolves. This is becoming increasingly important because the skills pipeline is not keeping pace with vehicle technology. The IMI estimates that around 74,700 technicians currently hold an EV qualification, representing approximately 35% of the UK’s technician workforce. However, demand is forecast to outstrip supply, with a potential shortfall of more than 43,000 EV-qualified technicians by 2035. For workshops, that presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Businesses that invest early will be better positioned to attract customers, recruit talent and differentiate themselves from competitors. Those who delay may find themselves competing for an increasingly limited pool of qualified technicians. Businesses that invest early will be better positioned to attract customers
Opinion 14 Oil is no longer a commodity it’s a precision component Alan Outhwaite, Head of the Technical Review Panel at the Verification of Lubricant Specifications (VLS), discusses the particular lubrication challenges posed by hybrid vehicles. Hybrid vehicles have grown in popularity in recent years and are likely to remain an important part of the vehicle parc for many years to come, despite the current 2035 ban on sales of new hybrid cars. For some motorists, hybrids offer the perfect balance – harnessing the benefits of battery power without the range anxiety of battery electric vehicles. Despite their similarities to internal combustion petrol and diesel engines, hybrid vehicles have some critical differences. The duty cycle of hybrid vehicles is quite different, with many more stop-starts as the vehicle switches between power sources. In hybrids, the engine may need to start suddenly at high speed, when the vehicle may already be travelling at 60 mph, having used battery power to begin the journey. Such high-powered cold starts give the engine no time to reach operating temperature, increasing the risk of thermal shock and wear, as the oil hasn’t had time to circulate through the engine to protect moving parts while the engine slowly builds up. Hybrid vehicles are likely to warm up more slowly in general. Typically, an internal combustion engine (ICE) takes up to 10 minutes to reach operating temperature, depending on its use. A hybrid vehicle could take 25 minutes. On shorter journeys, the vehicle may have arrived at its destination and been switched off before it even reaches temperature. This longer warm-up period provides more time for water and fuel to accumulate in the sump, increasing the risk of fuel dilution and emulsification, which could lead to corrosion and increased wear. It is therefore even more critical that motorists and mechanics follow the recommended oil change intervals. If an oil warning light appears, the driver must not ignore it but take immediate action. Along with lower viscosity, hybrid vehicles tend to require oils with lower High-Temp High-Shear (HTHS) values to further increase fuel economy. Workshops must also use the appropriate specification engine oil, looking beyond the viscosity to the actual performance specification. Modern high-power-density petrol engines can require specialist lubricant chemistries to minimise the chance of events such as low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI). Backwards compatibility with other applications cannot be assumed, so an oil suitable for a new hybrid vehicle may not necessarily be suitable for the older hybrids being serviced in workshops. If at all unsure which engine oil to use, it is always worth taking the time to double-check with the vehicle handbook and the OEM. Workshops should also monitor OEM updates regarding changes to service intervals and oil change intervals. These are both likely to be more frequent than with conventional ICE-powered vehicles, as the oil has to work in a hostile environment with regular short, cold journeys. Hybrid vehicles are relatively new compared to ICE vehicles. OEMs are, in some cases, still learning about duty cycles and their effect on lubricants. Motorists can no longer assume their vehicle requires service every 12,000 miles or 12 months. As we expect lubricants to do more, under greater stress, they may need more regular replacement. We expect lubricants to do more, under greater stress Alan Outhwaite, Head of the Technical Review Panel at the Verification of Lubricant Specifications
Business 15 With the 2026 trade show season in full swing, award-winning garage owner and peer mentor Tim Benson offers his professional advice to help fellow independent workshops maximise their time away from the garage. Drawing on the real-world operational principles that has helped Leominster-based Oldfields Garage secure seven major awards in just 18 months, Tim is sharing a 10-point blueprint designed to turn trade show attendance into a strategic business investment. Tim, who continues to run his own garage business alongside his role with Oldfields Automotive Consulting, believes many workshops miss the full potential of these events by failing to plan effectively. “A good event is not just a day out,” said Tim. “Done properly, it gives you ideas, energy, and actions you can bring straight back into the business. Whether you are a regular attendee or heading to your first show, having a strategy ensures you and your team come back with something useful.” Over the past five years, Oldfields Garage has increased its average invoice value by 68% to £364, while maintaining an impressive five-year average Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 94. Tim says the same operational clarity that drives these results should also guide how garage owners approach trade events. The advice follows a landmark 2025 for Oldfields Garage, which saw the business named ‘Top Garage’ in the 10+ employee category of Aftermarket Magazine’s Top Awards, for the second time in three years. “We’re proud of what we’ve achieved, and a big part of that is staying curious about new technology and better ways of working,” said Tim. “Taking the time to talk to manufacturers and peers at these events is how we stay at the forefront of the industry.” For garages looking to raise standards, improve efficiency, or enhance customer experience, Tim Benson offers hands-on guidance through Oldfields Automotive Consulting. www.oldfieldsconsult.co.uk Tim’s top 10 tips for trade show success O Get there on time: Maximise your day. It can take time to get your bearings in a large venue. O Make a plan: Note down the specific suppliers, people, or talks you want to see. O Wear the right gear: Choose comfortable shoes and smart, branded clothing to represent your business. O Don’t just stick with your group: Start conversations with new people to find the best value. O Ask questions: Don’t just nod along; events are for learning, not for pretending you know it all. O Split up to cover more ground: Divide your team so you can attend different talks and visit more stands simultaneously. O Take notes: Write things down as you go, you will hear more than you can possibly remember. O Keep an open mind: Stay curious. The best ideas often come from things you weren’t looking for. O Talk to suppliers: A good conversation with a manufacturer can open doors to better support or new opportunities. O Share what you learned: Create a simple action plan when you get back to the workshop to turn ideas into results. Make every trade show count
Diagnostic Doctor 16 The Diagnostic Doctor tackles EVAP system leak diagnosis: Modern petrol vehicles rely on the EVAP (Evaporative Emission Control) system to prevent fuel vapour from escaping into the atmosphere. When faults occur, technicians often face general EVAP-related DTCs, returning engine lights, and the risk of misdiagnosis or unnecessary parts replacement. However, by using a structured approach, technicians can locate leaks quickly and eliminate guesswork. The EVAP system is composed of multiple interdependent components that work together to capture and control fuel vapours. Understanding each part is essential for accurate diagnostics. The canister stores vapours in activated charcoal, with some designs integrating the vent valve and filter. The purge solenoid controls vapour flow to the intake, which is critical for purge flow control and during leak tests. The vent valve is an electronic on/off valve which admits filtered air in normal operation and closes to seal the system during leak tests. Its typically low mounting height makes it vulnerable to dust, salt and moisture, and contamination is a very common UK failure pattern. Finally, the fuel tank pressure (FTP) sensor reports tank pressure/vacuum to the ECM. The plausibility of this reading is crucial when validating a leak test result. Why EVAP issues occur There are a number of reasons why EVAP issues can occur. The tanks and EVAP lines are located under the vehicle, collecting debris, salt, and moisture. Models with rough-road capability can sustain physical damage to the tank from impacts. Dust or salt ingress can cause sticking or blocked vents, leading to refuelling cut-off, poor sealing, or ‘false leak’ symptoms. Plus, some electrical faults can be misinterpreted when purge or vent circuit DTCs are electrical, not ‘leak size’ indicators. Common DTCs related to EVAP issues include P0440 – General EVAP fault, P0442 – Small leak, P0455 – Gross leak, P0456 – Very small leak and P0457 – Fuel cap loose or missing. However, it’s worth noting that electrical faults do not indicate leaks, and correct interpretation prevents wasted time and unnecessary parts replacement. For example, electrical purge/vent valve faults (P0443, P0446) are circuit issues, not system leaks. Many technicians still clear codes first, losing freeze-frame context. Avoid this – those conditions (light-throttle cruise, coolant temp >80°C) are clues to when the self-test ran and when to reproduce it on a road test. Testing methods The first step in any diagnosis of EVAPrelated issues should be a DMTL self-test to establish whether a leak exists. Then, if one is indicated, there are a number of techniques which can be used to trace leaks. Smoke testing using dedicated tools such as the Snap-on Smart Smoke EVAP Machine, can help visualise vapour leaks that would otherwise remain invisible. However, it is extremely important not to use compressed air for this step, as oxygen combined with hydrocarbons can create a significant ignition risk. With a scan tool, it is possible to activate FAQS Why do EVAP faults appear after steady driving? Most EVAP self-tests run only when the engine is warm and driven steadily. Can a gas analyser be used for EVAP leak detection? Yes – use an MOT emissions analyser such as the Sun DGA6000 LINK in free-running mode to pinpoint the leak area. Should I still check the fuel cap first? Yes – but if the fault returns, continue with system tests. Why do EVAP comebacks happen? Often due to skipped steps or clearing codes too early and losing freeze-frame clues. How do I distinguish electrical faults from leaks? Use active tests. Purge/vent electrical codes (e.g., P0443/P0446) are circuit issues, not leak sizes. Why do vent valves fail so often? They sit low and take on contamination and moisture. What’s the golden rule for EVAP work? Self-test → smoke → sniff → electrical checks, then verify on road test.
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