The voice of the independent garage sector September 2026 www.aftermarketonline.net 10 News NEW - Quick fixes 20 32 Technical The MOT station Diagnostic Doctor tackles ADAS The true cost of an MOT bay NGK part selection has never been easier via the Niterra Part Finder at www.ngkpartfinder.co.uk For workshops, trust is built over time. NGK has earned its place in service bays everyday by being a name technicians know, rely on and fit with confidence. When the trust matters, familiar quality is a must. NGK Ignition Parts. We’ve got your back.
The world where tomorrow’s garages meet 8.– 12. 9. 2026 info@uk.messefrankfurt.com Tel. +44 (0) 14 83 48 39 84 Buy your ticket now!
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 Destination Coventry For many, summer is about travel and new experiences. And while not an exotic destination blessed with natural wonders, I experienced that in July when I headed to Coventry for the TechFest event. Considering GSF is not an exhibition organiser, it was a very well-thought-out event. The timing worked well. There were plenty of visitors when I arrived early on, but the number grew as the afternoon turned into evening. The visitors were clearly having a great time, and the exhibitors looked like they were having a blast too. So many of the stands had entertainment, games, challenges and competitions, and there were giveaways aplenty. There was also lots to entertain the kids that many visitors had brought with them. And that was all very much by design. I had the opportunity to speak with Steve Horne, GSF’s CEO, who was understandably very pleased with how it was going and explained the ethos behind it. Steve told me the concept came from a desire to give something back to their customers. He wanted the event to provide an opportunity for everyone to have fun, enjoy some good food (which was free), be entertained and to facilitate direct contact between their suppliers and their customers. And so alongside the food, the wellness centre, the kids’ entertainment zone and the many interactive elements were all part of delivering that concept. I did wonder what the exhibitors’ perspective would be. I’ve been to events like this where suppliers are ‘obliged’ to attend by customers who stage the event. But I could not have been more wrong. I spoke to several exhibitors, and they all said the TechFest events were an excellent opportunity for them to meet with and talk to their end-user customers. And they also said the events were a firm fixture on their annual event calendar. Steve backed that up, explaining that there is, in fact, a waiting list of suppliers that want to get involved, and that those who are there are upping their game each time they exhibit. If you have not been to a TechFest event before, I would recommend it. The next one is being held in Wembley on 17 September, with potential new locations under consideration for next year’s programme. In the meantime, there is lots of news and insight in this issue of Aftermarket. I hope you enjoy the issue. Chris Callander Editor
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News Top Awards latest 8 Overdue MOTs highlight reminder opportunity 9 NEW – Quick fixes 10 Laser Tools becomes an Employee-Owned Trust 11 Spotlight eVED: potential pinch points for the UK aftermarket 12-13 Opinion Could self-driving taxis finally make motorists understand ADAS? 14-15 Business Five golden rules to successfully sell wheel alignment 16-17 Garages lose over £40,000 per year from customer no-shows 18 How many customers are garages losing without ever knowing? 19 Technical Diagnostic Doctor tackles ADAS 20-21 Turning information into diagnostic direction 22-23 In focus Products 26-27 The MOT station 28-34 Oils, lubes & additives 35-39 Thermal management 40-41 Exhausts, cats & accessories 42-45 Training & welfare 46-48 Plus On the move 49 Contents Subscribe to 8 12 14 16 20 26 49 8 19 28 36 48
Cover story 6 Future-proofing starts today Niterra UK Ltd Marketing Manager, Becca Knight, explains why future-proofing a workshop isn’t about choosing between internal combustion and electrification, but preparing to support both. The aftermarket has always adapted to changing vehicle technology. The conversation around 2035 is simply the latest chapter. The noise around the 2035 deadline can sometimes distract from the reality facing independent workshops. While the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate is accelerating the transition towards electrification, it only applies to the sale of new vehicles. Millions of petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles already on UK roads will continue to require maintenance and repair for many years to come. Rather than replacing one opportunity with another, the industry is entering a dual-track future. Workshops must continue investing in new technologies while maintaining the expertise needed to support an ageing vehicle parc that remains the backbone of today’s servicing business. We’re already seeing some dual-track uncertainty as the 2035 deadline creeps closer. Vehicle owners are keeping their cars for longer, with many waiting to see how legislation develops or how quickly electric vehicles become accessible to them. As a result, the average age of the UK vehicle parc continues to rise and workshops are maintaining older vehicles next to increasingly complex new technology. However, workshops have always moved with the times to keep their business alive and now is no different. The Road Ahead Future-proofing isn’t simply about preparing for environmental regulations a decade from now. It’s about ensuring the business is ready for the vehicles arriving in the workshop today. Modern petrol engines have evolved dramatically. Downsizing, turbocharging and increasingly sophisticated engine management systems have enabled manufacturers to extract more performance, greater fuel efficiency, and lower emissions from smaller capacity powertrains. The result is that ignition components are required to perform in hostile environments while maintaining precise, reliable ignition over increasingly long service intervals. Diesel technology has evolved too. Glow plugs continue to play an important role in supporting reliable cold starting and efficient combustion during the warm-up phase, helping modern diesel engines operate as intended. For independent workshops, ignition components will remain a dependable and profitable product category thanks to the many years of operation expected from petrol, diesel and hybrid vehicles. This is why product quality remains so relevant. Built-in Quality Today’s engines place far greater demands on ignition components than their older counterparts. High-stress engines, higher pressures, leaner air-fuel ratios and tighter emissions regulations all mean that the spark must be more powerful, more precise and more consistent. In these environments, material and design make all the difference and that’s where premium plugs earn their price tag. Nickel alloy plugs are cost-effective and perfectly functional in many cases, especially for older vehicles. But the difference in price for premium plugs is about far more than just a brand name; it’s about advanced materials and engineering designed to meet rigorous performance demands. And it is the quality of materials used that is the primary differentiator in cost. Premium spark plugs are built with precious metals including platinum or iridium -elements chosen for their exceptional performance in extreme conditions. Iridium, for example, has a melting point of 2,450°C and is one of the hardest materials in existence. This makes it extremely resistant to fouling and ideal for delivering consistent ignition under pressure. Platinum plugs also provide better durability and reliability
Cover story 7 thanks to their ability to maintain a stable spark across a long service life. These precious metals aren’t marketing gimmicks, they are engineered responses to the needs of today’s vehicles. As a result, premium plugs can maintain performance over extended service intervals, often exceeding 60,000 miles depending on the application. Their value extends well beyond producing a stronger, more consistent spark. They bring long term, systemic advantages. Fit a high-performance spark plug and the benefits spread far beyond the ignition chamber. Engines run more smoothly, with improved cold starts and fewer misfires. Better combustion means more efficient fuel burn, improved throttle response and fewer unburnt emissions. The workload on other components is reduced too. Ignition coils, for example, no longer need to overcompensate for a weak or inconsistent spark. The outcome? Fewer return visits to the garage, greater customer satisfaction and a vehicle that performs closer to how the manufacturer intended. Ongoing Gains So the true value isn’t just in their immediate performance. It is in the ripple of positive effects they have on many aspects of vehicle operation and overall ownership experience. Once installed, what may initially appear to be a more expensive component begins to repay the investment through lower consumption, fewer repairs and a reduced likelihood of premature component replacement. That is futureproofing in action. For decades, Niterra’s NGK brand has led the way in OE-quality spark plug innovation. Its platinum and iridium plugs are developed in close partnership with vehicle manufacturers to meet exacting performance and emissions standards. That same engineering is available to the independent aftermarket, with the widest range in the UK and Ireland. NGK Iridium IX plugs, for example, offer a fine-wire iridium tip laser-welded to a nickel shell for high ignitability and low voltage requirement, reducing strain on coils and enhancing fuel economy. It’s the technology trusted on the track, in the workshop and under the bonnet of millions of vehicles worldwide. After Glow Glow plugs also play a vital role in diesel performance and emissions control. When installed correctly, they deliver smooth cold starts, efficient combustion and reduced exhaust smoke. NGK’s OE-quality glow plugs are engineered to meet the same standards required by vehicle manufacturers worldwide. Each plug delivers rapid heat-up, stable post-glow function and exceptional reliability. The range includes advanced ceramic types capable of exceeding 1,000°C in less than two seconds - ideal for modern engines that demand fast starts and low emissions. Whether it’s a family diesel or a high-performance LCV, NGK offers the right solution backed by decades of ignition expertise. Ahead of the Curve At Niterra, we’re monitoring the composition of the vehicle parc closely and continue to support garages as they navigate today’s servicing requirements. We’re continually expanding our application coverage through regular new-to-range introductions, ensuring even more petrol, diesel, and hybrid models can benefit from the OE-quality products that workshops know and trust. No workshop can predict every twist in the automotive industry’s journey ahead. But every workshop can prepare for it. Look to create an agile business which is staying on top of the latest technology and emissions regulations with quality ignition products they can trust. That trust is built over time. NGK has earned its place in service bays every day by being a name technicians know, rely on and fit with confidence. When trust matters, familiar quality is a must. Because future-proofing isn’t just about predicting what comes next. It’s about being ready for the vehicles that are already here. NGK also provides a trusted source of technical information to help workshops get every installation right first time. For full specification data, torque values and technical guidance, visit www. ngkpartfinder.co.uk and explore www. ngkntk.com/uk
Top Awards news 8 www.aftermarketonline.net SEPTEMBER 2026 Experience the Top Awards finals for yourself this November For the first time, independent garage owners, technicians, apprentices and aftermarket professionals are being invited to experience the excitement of the Top Awards Finals in person. On Saturday 14 November, at the Delphi Academy in Warwick, the 2026 Top Awards finals will open their doors to the wider aftermarket, giving visitors the chance to watch the UK’s best garages, technicians and apprentices compete live, discover the latest workshop technology and spend the day with some of the industry’s most knowledgeable and passionate people. Until now, the Finals have been reserved for competitors, judges and partners. This year, however, anyone with an interest in the independent aftermarket is welcome to come along and see what makes the Top Awards such a special occasion. “Whether you’re competing or not, I’d encourage anyone in the industry to join us,” said Ryan Fuller, Managing Director of Top Awards. “You’ll get to experience the finals at the fantastic Delphi Academy, see the latest products and technologies from our industry partners and, most importantly, spend time with some of the best technicians, apprentices and garage owners in the country. “It’s a brilliant opportunity to pick up new ideas, catch up with people from across the trade and see first-hand what makes the Top Awards so special. We’d love to welcome as many people as possible.” Throughout the day, visitors will be able to watch the country’s top technicians and apprentices tackle demanding 50-minute live fault-finding challenges, while the finalists in Top Garage present their businesses to an expert judging panel as they compete to be recognised as the UK’s leading independent workshop. If you’ve ever thought about entering the competition yourself, there’s no better way to see what’s involved. Watching the live assessments provides a real insight into the standard required, the judging process and how finalists approach each challenge, making it the perfect opportunity to prepare for the 2027 competition. Away from the competition arena, Top Awards Live will bring together many of the aftermarket’s leading suppliers and technology providers, all showcasing the latest products, equipment and services. Industry partners including Snap-on, TOPDON UK, VARTA, Delphi, JLM Liquid Tools, Garage Hive, Omoda Jaecoo, HELLA, Hofmann Megaplan UK, LKQ Euro Car Parts, Mechanic Mindset, Garage Services Online, Castrol and The Race Group will all be on hand to demonstrate new technology, answer questions and chat with visitors throughout the day. There will also be plenty of opportunities to relax and catch up with friends and colleagues over Ben’s Big Breakfast, sponsored by HELLA and served from a bright yellow American school bus provided by Yellow Bus Catering. HELLA will fund the first 250 breakfasts free of charge, with visitors encouraged to make a donation to automotive charity Ben. The day concludes with the Top Awards Gala Dinner at the DoubleTree by Hilton Coventry, where the winners of Top Technician, Top Garage, Top Apprentice, the Service Advisor Award and the Ben Health & Wellbeing Award will be revealed. To find out more about attending the 2026 Top Awards Finals and Gala Dinner, follow the link below. aftermarketonline.net/toptechniciantopgarage
News 9 www.aftermarketonline.net SEPTEMBER 2026 More than eight million vehicles are being presented for an MOT after their certificate has already expired each year, exposing motorists to fines of up to £1,000 while creating both a safety concern and an opportunity for independent garages to strengthen customer relationships. New figures from online used car retailer Cinch, based on Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) data obtained through a Freedom of Information request, show more than 25.8 million overdue MOT tests were carried out between 2023 and 2025, with a further 2.1 million recorded during the first three months of 2026. Drivers who use a vehicle on the road without a valid MOT could face a fine of up to £1,000, unless travelling to a pre-booked MOT appointment or repair. The trend is reinforced by booking data from BookMyGarage, which has seen a sharp increase in motorists leaving their MOT booking until after the expiry date. Analysis of more than 350,000 bookings found that almost one in seven drivers booked their MOT after it had already expired, while the proportion booking after the deadline has risen by around 60% year-on-year. At the same time, fewer motorists are arranging their test well in advance, with those booking at least four weeks before expiry falling from 59.3% to 38.1% over the past year. While the Government already offers motorists an optional MOT reminder service, BookMyGarage’s figures suggest garages could also benefit from reminding customers when their annual test is due. According to the company’s data, motorists who received an MOT reminder were 55% less likely to have an expired MOT when arranging their next test. Jessica Ruddick, Chief Marketing Officer at BookMyGarage, said the findings represented both a safety concern and a business opportunity. “There is also a safety implication, but the findings also point to an opportunity for garages to address this in customer communications. MOT reminders sent well in advance of customers’ MOT due dates encourage more timely bookings. Our data shows that motorists who received an MOT reminder were 55% less likely to have an expired MOT when arranging their next test.” For independent workshops, a simple reminder sent a few weeks before a customer’s MOT anniversary could help improve compliance, encourage repeat business and smooth workshop loading throughout the year. Overdue MOTs highlight reminder opportunity for garages 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
Top Awards news 10 www.aftermarketonline.net SEPTEMBER 2026 Aftermarket parts specialist, DriveTec is urging garages to double-check brake fluid specifications on modern vehicles after a growing number of reservoir caps that don’t match the OE requirement have been reported by workshops. On many post-2015 vehicles, the cap still states “DOT 4” even where the system is designed for DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV). Going by the cap alone can lead to the wrong fluid being used. As a safety precaution, DriveTec is advising technicians to rely on manufacturer specifications rather than under-bonnet labelling when confirming the correct product. The shift to advanced braking systems means low-viscosity fluid is now critical to system performance. DOT 4 LV (ISO 4925 Class 6) is formulated to flow more quickly at low temperatures, supporting the rapid response needed for systems such as ABS, ESC and automatic emergency braking. Using standard DOT 4 in systems calibrated for low-viscosity fluid can slow system response and weaken brake intervention when it’s needed most, particularly in colder conditions or high-demand braking events. News Study highlights ongoing hesitation around EV adoption A survey carried out by Bridgestone has revealed that more than one in four UK motorists insist they have no intention of making the switch to an electric vehicle. New consumer research commissioned by Bridgestone has found that 26% of motorists say they will never buy an electric vehicle (EV), up significantly from 17% in 2025 and marking a return to levels seen in 2024. Meanwhile, just 16% plan to purchase an electric vehicle within the next 12 months. The findings suggest that despite the increasing presence of EVs on UK roads, many of the concerns that have surrounded electric motoring for years remain firmly entrenched. Battery longevity and replacement costs continue to top the list of worries, cited by 55% of respondents. Half of motorists are concerned about the cost of charging an EV, while 44% remain worried about vehicle range and the initial purchase price. Charging infrastructure also continues to be a sticking point, with 43% believing there are still not enough charging points available. In addition, 41% expressed concerns about the time it takes to charge an electric vehicle. Despite the hesitancy, the longerterm outlook remains more positive, with more than half (53%) of motorists saying they expect to buy an EV within the next five years, while a further 7% remain undecided. Don’t trust the reservoir FDS IRU EUDNH ᎯXLG VSHF 4XLFN Ꭾ[HVଉ The average garage has around £6,000 tied up in unpaid invoices at any one time, according to Klipboard. SELECT Automotive has introduced a comprehensive 12-month warranty across its entire product range. The Eurorepar Car Service network has set a target of achieving 1,000 members by 2031. GSF has opened a new branch in Fareham. The Motor Ombudsman has opened a new hub in Liverpool, Merseyside. Kwik Fit has discovered that one in eleven drivers admit to telling their partner or family that they had checked the car before setting off on holiday, even though they hadn’t. Jayar Car Parts has opened new branches in Warminster, Wiltshire, Brackley in Northamptonshire, and Spalding, Lincolnshire. BookMyGarage’s Ollie Sanderson has raised just under £2,500 for automotive charity Ben through a 1,123-mile cycle ride from Land’s End to John O’Groats. Servicesure has reached 500 independent garage members in England and Wales. Cataclean has expanded its Liverpool headquarters by acquiring an additional 11,836 ft². facility.
News 11 www.aftermarketonline.net SEPTEMBER 2026 Laser Tools becomes an Employee-Owned Trust The Tool Connection, the company behind the wellknown Laser Tools brand, has officially become an Employee-Owned Trust (EOT) to secure its future as an independent, employeeowned business. Launched on 2 June 2026, the Trust now holds a controlling shareholding in the company on behalf of its employees, ensuring ownership remains focused on the long-term success of the business and the people who help drive it forward every day. The move to become an EOT comes as the company celebrates its 50th anniversary. Founded by Martin Smith in 1976, the company has grown from humble beginnings selling kindling at local markets into one of the UK’s leading suppliers of professional automotive and workshop tools, employing more than 158 people across its Southam headquarters and Sheffield manufacturing operation. The move to employee ownership fulfils a vision held by the company’s founder, Martin Smith, for many years. Eddie Altham, Tool Connection’s Managing Director, said: “Martin always believed that the people who helped build the company should share in its future. “The Employee Ownership Trust allows us to honour that vision while continuing to invest, innovate and grow for the long term. “The launch of the M.T.S. Employee Ownership Trust is a landmark moment for The Tool Connection. Employee ownership protects the independence of the business, preserves the culture that has made us successful and ensures our employees remain at the heart of everything we do.” A special launch event to mark the official beginning of the EOT brought together employees from across the organisation to celebrate the occasion and learn more about the future of the business under employee ownership. As part of the new governance structure, representatives from across the business’s 158 employees, alongside management and independent trustees, will help oversee the Trust on behalf of all of the company’s employees.
Spotlight 12 eVED: Potential pinch points for the UK aftermarket Proposals for a mileage-based electric Vehicle Excise Duty risk creating new complexity for drivers while placing additional operational demands on MOT stations, garages and service providers. As the government considers how the new regime will work, Peter Lawton, Head of Member Sections at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), sets out what it could mean for workload, data integrity and the wider UK aftermarket. The proposed introduction of mileage-based Vehicle Excise Duty (eVED) for battery electric (BEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) vehicles from April 2028 would create new compliance requirements for motorists and a significant additional burden for the MOT ecosystem. In the UK, vehicles do not require an MOT until year three; however, under the current proposals, motorists could be required to submit annual mileage data from year one, potentially via MOT stations or other accredited providers, although the government’s consultation leaves open how such checks would be delivered in practice. Executing such an approach at scale would be challenging. There are unresolved questions regarding capacity, capability and cost. Drivers would need to estimate mileage accurately, service providers would need to capture and report it reliably, and the DVLA would need to operate a system capable of handling millions of additional data points each year. By April 2028, more than 4.5 million BEVs and PHEVs could be on UK roads, based on existing parc data and current uptake trajectories. Peak registration months such as March and September already place significant pressure on workshops, risking bottlenecks that spill into scheduling, throughput and customer experience. Covering the administrative cost Government says it will fund the mileage checks, but discussions with the sector have yet to touch on how workshops will be compensated. If each check takes 15 minutes, clarity is needed on what constitutes fair payment and how compensation reflects the real cost of delivery. Given that the maximum MOT test fee for class 4 vehicles has remained frozen at £54.85 for 16 years, an inflation-adjusted figure would arguably be appropriate, but ultimately, a comprehensive review of the test fee – taking into account future requirements and wider system improvements – would make far more sense. We understand such a review remains under consideration, though there is currently no timetable. Many MOT stations operate on tight margins and with ageing infrastructure, limiting their ability to invest in new systems or processes without clear funding mechanisms or government support. Yet they would be expected to deliver consistent and accurate mileage reporting under increased scrutiny. Errors or disputes – particularly where penalties apply – risk becoming a new source of friction between motorists, garages and government. Getting it right Data integrity concerns also extend to vehicle tampering. If consumers are penalised for miscalculations or errors in third-party data, there is a risk of backlash against EV ownership and a slower shift into the mass market. A mileage-based tax system also risks encouraging fraud. Illegal “mileage blocker” devices are already readily available, adding further pressure on enforcement and auditing. Digital services could streamline compliance – for example, enabling consumers and buyers to check a vehicle’s mileage and eVED status alongside existing MOT history checks. But effective delivery depends on early and detailed engagement with garages, MOT operators and any accredited bodies responsible for collecting or validating eVED-related data. Clarity on liabilities, data-handling standards and dispute processes must be built in from the outset. Low-friction solutions – such as photo or video odometer evidence, mileage checks at franchised dealers or mobile/non-workshop providers – could help maintain accuracy while minimising disruption. Complexity also extends to ownership changes. Unlike conventional VED, eVED liability is proposed to “stay with the car” rather than the keeper. This raises questions about who is liable when
Spotlight 13 vehicles are sold, returned at the end of contract or moved through the trade. If end-of-year mileage diverges from estimates, reconciliation payments could be triggered at awkward points in finance agreements or fleet cycles. The SMMT’s position SMMT has been clear throughout the consultation process that any move to a mileage-based eVED system must be workable for motorists and operationally realistic for the aftermarket. We are engaging closely with government, the DVLA, and industry stakeholders to press for proportionate enforcement, clear liability frameworks and adequate funding for those expected to deliver the system. With enough lead time, proper consultation and investment in digital solutions, it is possible to protect data integrity without overloading garages or undermining consumer confidence. Getting this right matters – not just for the aftermarket, but for maintaining trust in the UK’s transition to zeroemission mobility. After all, a new tax system should support – not complicate – the day-today realities of keeping Britain’s vehicles safe, roadworthy and on the road. Should the scheme go ahead, SMMT will collaborate with government and its agencies to ensure the rollout is as smooth as possible. 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
Opinion 14 40% of buyers received no explanation of ADAS when purchasing their vehicle Could self-driving taxis finally make motorists understand ADAS? With applications open for self-driving passenger services in the UK, Adam Molloy, Operations Director and Co-Founder of A1 ADAS Group, considers whether autonomous vehicles could do more to improve public understanding of ADAS than years of industry messaging ever has. Self-driving taxis have spent years sitting somewhere between technology showcase and science fiction. But the conversation changed in May when applications opened for companies wanting to operate self-driving taxi and bus-style passenger services on UK roads. The timing is significant. Alongside the Government opening applications for autonomous passenger services, companies including Waymo have already begun testing vehicles on London roads. Whether widespread adoption arrives quickly or not, autonomous vehicles are no longer a distant concept. For the first time, they are something the public may soon experience for themselves. The Government says human error contributes to 88% of road collisions, which is one of the reasons autonomous technology is being viewed as a potential safety breakthrough. But can motorists be asked to trust a vehicle to drive itself when many still don’t fully understand the driver assistance systems already fitted to their own vehicle? For the aftermarket, that may be the most important question of all. For years, ADAS technology has become more capable, more widespread and more influential in vehicle safety. Yet public understanding has struggled to keep pace. Most drivers know their vehicle has features such as lane departure warning, autonomous emergency braking or blind spot monitoring. Many will have experienced those systems intervening at some point. What fewer drivers understand is that these systems rely on cameras, radars and sensors being able to accurately interpret the world around them. They also rely on those systems remaining correctly calibrated throughout the vehicle’s life if they are to perform as manufacturers intended. That knowledge gap isn’t entirely the fault of motorists. Research suggests 40% of buyers received no explanation of ADAS when purchasing their vehicle, leaving many drivers to learn about the technology through experience rather than education. As a result, many experience ADAS as a collection of beeps, warnings and occasional interventions rather than understanding the technology and safety benefits sitting behind them. This is where self-driving taxis could have an interesting and perhaps unexpected impact. A public turning point for ADAS awareness Most motorists don’t think in terms of automation levels or technical definitions. They simply see a vehicle doing more of the driving task than they expected. For the first time, many members of the public may directly experience a vehicle making driving decisions for itself rather than simply assisting in the background. That experience has the potential to change how people think about vehicle technology. Self-driving taxis and the ADAS systems fitted to everyday vehicles are not the same thing. However, they are part of the same direction of travel. Both rely on sensors, software, cameras, radar systems and precise vehicle data. Both depend on the vehicle understanding its surroundings. Both ultimately rely on safety-critical systems operating exactly as intended. As autonomous passenger services become more visible, motorists may start asking more questions about the technology already fitted to their own vehicles. That could be a positive development for the aftermarket. Why greater awareness matters to workshops At present, many workshops still find themselves having to explain why calibration is required following certain
Opinion 15 repairs or maintenance procedures. A customer may understand why their vehicle needs wheel alignment, suspension repairs or a replacement windscreen. They are often less prepared for the conversation about ADAS calibration that follows. The challenge is not usually the calibration itself. The challenge is explaining why it matters. If a customer doesn’t fully understand that a camera or radar sensor forms part of an active safety system, calibration can feel like an unexpected extra rather than an essential step in returning the vehicle to the correct operating condition. Greater public awareness of vehicle technology could help remove some of that friction. If motorists become more familiar with the role that sensors, cameras and software play in vehicle safety, it becomes easier to explain why those systems need checking, validating and calibrating after certain repairs. That doesn’t remove the workshop’s responsibility to educate customers properly. But it does create a better starting point for the conversation. A spotlight on standards There’s another reason why this matters. As public awareness increases, customers may become more interested in how these systems are maintained. Questions around calibration, technician competency and qualification, repair procedures, and traceability may become more common. Consumers who are becoming familiar with autonomous technology are likely to become more curious about the technology already fitted to their own vehicles. That should be welcomed. ADAS calibration is not simply a case of connecting a diagnostic tool and pressing a button. Accuracy matters. Evidence matters. Following the correct repair procedures matters. The industry has made significant progress, but there’s still work to do. ADAS-equipped vehicles are entering independent garages and bodyshops every day, and the technology is evolving at a pace that challenges even us as specialists to stay current. The more awareness motorists have, the more important it becomes that the sector continues to invest in training, qualifications, competency and doing the job properly. The real opportunity Self-driving taxis may be the headline, but they are not the real story for the aftermarket. The real story is what happens when the public starts paying greater attention to the technology fitted to millions of vehicles on UK roads. For years, ADAS has advanced faster than public understanding. Autonomous passenger services could begin to close that gap. The first self-driving taxi may do more for ADAS awareness than a decade of industry messaging ever could. If that happens, the winners won’t just be the companies developing autonomous vehicles. It will also be the workshops that have invested in understanding, maintaining and accurately calibrating the technology those vehicles depend on.those vehicles depend on. SMARTER DIAGNOSTICS START HERE. 溤瀆_ĬĉĐÁì k XąõÍą§ììÖîÍ Ìõą D| 煁 { '澅 k õ½ÖîÍ §î½ KîÁ瀆 çÖ·ä ĕĉĐõìÖı§ĐÖõî Ìõą 溡溠灢 ą§î½ĉ澅 ½ĥ§î·Á½ K fõĂõçõÍĬ D§Ă 煁 <ÁĬ XąõÍą§ììÖîÍ澅 KE { / Ìõą :溢溥溣溤 XąõÍą§ììÖîÍ 煁 |Ö&Ö õììĕîÖ·§ĐÖõî澅 溢 Á§ąĉ &ąÁÁ _õÌĐĦ§ąÁ kĂ½§ĐÁĉ澅 XąõÌÁĉĉÖõî§ç ĕĐõìõĐÖĥÁ _·§î fõõç ONE Plus 澅溢溥溦 灤 溡溩溢 /[ [ÁĉõçĕĐÖõî 澅XçĕÍ 煁 Xç§Ĭ 澅 ĕÖçĐ瀐Öî /îĉĂÁ·ĐÖõî 'ĕÖ½Áĉ 澅瀆溢溠煉 Đõ 溥溥溠煉 fÁìĂÁą§ĐĕąÁ [§îÍÁ fÓÁąì§ç /ì§ÍÖîÍ §ìÁą§ Ìõą k_ 瀆 ÖXÓõîÁ 煁 î½ąõÖ½ TC002C Duo fKX KE k[KX _> k濃fKX KE濃 KD 煀ĐõĂ½õîÁĕąõĂÁ fKX KE k 煌 灢溣溤 溩溣溠 溥溢溣 溡溤溩 煌 ĉ§çÁĉ潻Áĕ煀ĐõĂ½õî潻·õì §ççÁ _§îĐ çÖÁĉ潼 溢溩瀈溣溥潼 _Đ潻 潼 溢î½ &çõõą潼 KÌÌÖ·Á 溡潼 溠溨溠溠溦 §ą·Áçõî§潼 _çÖî
Business 16 Five golden rules to successfully sell wheel alignment Pro-Align, a wheel alignment technology specialist and longstanding Hunter Engineering partner, shares five golden rules that can help workshops confidently promote wheel alignment and turn it into a consistent source of revenue. Don’t be afraid to start the conversation One of the biggest barriers to selling wheel alignment is hesitation. Many technicians and service advisors worry about appearing too sales-focused when recommending additional work. Wheel alignment is not an unnecessary upsell; it is preventative maintenance that benefits both the customer and the vehicle. By opening a simple conversation, workshops can make customers aware of problems they may never have considered. Rather than using technical language, focus on everyday observations. For example: “We’ve noticed some uneven tyre wear that could be caused by wheel misalignment.” Or. “We recommend checking your wheel alignment regularly; it’s like giving your tyres a health check.” These straightforward explanations help customers understand that alignment is part of responsible vehicle maintenance rather than an optional extra. Focus on long-term savings Cost is often the first concern customers raise when additional work is recommended. Instead of discussing the price of the alignment service, shift the conversation towards the money it can save over the lifetime of the vehicle. Incorrect wheel alignment accelerates tyre wear, meaning tyres need replacing much sooner than expected. It also increases rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel. Left unresolved, poor alignment can even place unnecessary strain on steering and suspension components, leading to significantly higher repair costs. When customers understand these long-term implications, wheel alignment becomes a sensible investment rather than an avoidable expense. Simple, customer-friendly messaging is often the most effective. For example: “Correct wheel alignment can help your tyres last thousands of miles longer while improving fuel economy, saving you money over time.” Keep the explanation simple Wheel alignment involves precise measurements such as camber, caster and toe, but most customers neither understand nor need to understand these technical terms. Instead, explain the outcome rather than the process. Tell customers that wheel alignment ensures all four wheels are pointing in the correct direction, Simple, customer-friendly messaging is often the most effective
Business 17 so the vehicle drives straight, handles safely and wears its tyres evenly. This clear explanation immediately communicates the value without overwhelming the customer. When customers understand what the service achieves, they are far more likely to trust the recommendation and authorise the work. Clear communication also strengthens the workshop’s reputation. Customers appreciate technicians who can explain complex issues in simple language, building confidence that the advice being given is genuine and in their best interests. Let the Hunter printout do the talking One of the greatest advantages of Hunter wheel alignment systems is the ability to provide customers with clear, visual evidence. Wheel alignment is largely invisible. Unlike replacing worn brake pads or fitting new tyres, customers cannot immediately see what has changed. Hunter’s before-and-after printouts solve this problem by presenting the vehicle’s measurements in an easy-tounderstand format. The familiar green and red indicators clearly show where adjustments were needed and how the vehicle has been corrected. Rather than simply handing over the report, take a few moments to walk customers through it. Visual proof reinforces trust and demonstrates the workshop’s professionalism, making customers much more likely to return for future alignment checks. Make wheel alignment visible Many customers never ask for wheel alignment simply because they don’t know it’s a routine maintenance service. That’s why proactive marketing plays such an important role. Simple point-of-sale materials placed around the reception area or waiting area can prompt valuable conversations before a vehicle even enters the workshop. Leaflets explaining the causes and consequences of poor alignment provide useful education, while digital marketing helps maintain awareness long after customers have left. Sharing informative posts on social media, including alignment reminders in email newsletters, and promoting seasonal alignment checks all help keep the service front of mind. The more customers see and understand wheel alignment, the more likely they are to request it themselves, making the sales conversation easier and more natural for workshop staff. More than equipment At Pro-Align, supplying world-class Hunter wheel alignment systems is only part of the story. Pro-Align is committed to helping workshops unlock the full commercial potential of their investment through expert consultancy, comprehensive training and ongoing technical support. pro-align.co.uk
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