The modern garage 36 Mark Softley, Laser Tools Technical Director, discusses the challenges independent garages face with emerging vehicle technologies, the solutions to such challenges and how investing in the right equipment and tooling – often dedicated to specific vehicles and tasks – can future-proof your workshop. As vehicles evolve and new technologies emerge, there are key areas for independent garages to focus on, and one in particular is modern engine design. Modern engines need to keep up with ever increasingly stringent emissions laws, and this has led to significantly more complex engine designs. A good example is engines like the VAG COD series, which has led to the requirement for a different process for timing the engines. There has been a significant move away from the use of just pins and clamps, and the aftermarket needs to keep abreast of these changes and adapt to them. Specialist tools, like our timing kit suitable for VW Group 1.0, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.5 TSI petrol engines, have been designed specifically for this task. The kit has been developed to allow the user to align, set and check the camshaft timing of the Volkswagen Group EA 211, 4-cylinder TSI petrol engine without the need to resort to computer-based alignment tools – saving time and money in the workshop. The move to EVs The transition to EV, PHEV and Hybrid drivetrains is probably the biggest challenge facing garages in the modernday aftermarket. A good starting point for any garage looking to get involved with EV work must be training, followed by specialist vehicle-specific tooling. Having staff trained to the correct level is vitally important, as even the simple task of putting an EV on a 2-post ramp can present problems. However, with Level 2 and 3 training, technicians will be well equipped to carry out general levels of servicing with confidence and technical understanding. As long as they use the correct equipment. Specifically designed EV tooling and health and safety kits are also essential, and we were among the first aftermarket tool suppliers to develop them thanks to our early involvement with OEMs. As a result, we have been able to create suitable packages for independent workshops and pass on the technical expertise and knowledge we have developed. Our range features insulated socket sets, torque wrenches, spanner sets, and other high-voltage tools and test instruments. We also have products designed to ensure safer working practices in the workshop, vital for garages looking to make the transition to becoming an EV specialist autocentre. It’s also worth remembering that while EVs don’t have all the moving parts associated with traditional ICE vehicles, they do have brakes, suspension, drive shafts, steering components, etc.– all easily worked on by independent garages. However, some of those parts, such as brakes, will bring different challenges to EVs compared to traditional ICE vehicles. Most EVs rely heavily on regenerative braking, reducing the use of conventional friction brakes and potentially leading to corrosion and brake pad seizure. And some manufacturers are now using rear drum brake systems on certain EV models, which also require specialist tooling for correct servicing and adjustment. Specialist and vehicle-specific tools can help today’s modern independent garages carry out repairs and diagnostics more accurately, efficiently and safely, particularly as modern vehicles become increasingly complex. They also reduce the risk of misdiagnosis or component damage, enabling garages to complete work to manufacturer standards and build greater customer confidence. So rather than considering them an unwelcome cost, today’s modern garages should start thinking of them as an investment. tinyurl.com/2tjzk25s Specialist tools are not just a cost, they are an investment
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