Lead times for fleet service, maintenance and repair have risen by more than 57% since the start of the pandemic, according to new data from epyx. In January 2020, the average time between when a company car or van booking was created to when the vehicle went in for work was 8.11 days - but today stands at 12.76 days. This data is taken from epyx’s 1link Service Network platform, which is used … [Read more...]
Testing time runs out for MoT change view
A split is developing over the Government’s proposal to extend the first MoT Test from three to four years. Consultation on the proposal ends tomorrow night. The Independent Garage Association (IGA) has responded to the Department for Transport’s (DfT) consultation proposing changes to the MOT frequency and other MOT enhancements. Stuart James, IGA Chief Executive said, “As the voice of the … [Read more...]
Spiralling costs denting garages, dealerships and filling stations
A Motor Ombudsman poll of independent garages and franchise dealer workshops has revealed that rising operational costs, taxes and energy bills are set to be the biggest operational challenge for 90% of businesses in 2023. This is a marked increase on the 64% of respondents who stated in the same study that paying more for utilities and higher costs had reduced overall business profitability … [Read more...]
Warming up for winter
With temperatures dropping across the UK, and fuel prices rising, Graham Conway, Managing Director at Select Car Leasing shares ways drivers and their cars can stay warm behind the wheel without breaking the bank. “On frosty cold mornings, many drivers will wake up extra early to whack the heating up in their car. Whilst this won't consume a significant amount of fuel, it can actually shorten the … [Read more...]
British Motor Show & the shortfall in EV technicians
The British Motor Show will showcase the best, the fastest and the most innovative in automotive technology this weekend, but it comes amid a huge shortfall of EV technicians needed to keep the newest cars moving, says the Institute of the Motor Industry . Data from the IMI shows that the automotive retail sector does not currently have the skills and the pipeline of talent needed to service and … [Read more...]
Apprentices drive by garages
Franchised dealers have been promoting apprenticeships. Drive My Career is the employment platform launched by the National Franchised Dealers Association in February 2018 to make the motor retail sector more attractive to jobseekers and connect potential candidates with their local retailers. As part of the #DMCApprenticeTakeover campaign, Drive My Career members promoted across their social … [Read more...]
Bumpy road to low carbon future, say experts
The UK Government’s drive towards electric cars and a low carbon future faces a bumpy journey, say experts. Car-makers said they are committed to them and invested billions but the challenge of the next nine years is “immense”, according to Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive. "We are pleased, therefore, to see Government accept the importance of hybrid transition technologies – which drivers are … [Read more...]
No MoT test waiver with next lockdown
MoT tests will still be required on vehicles when the next England lockdown begins this week. In the spring, the annual safety check requirement was suspended until August but it has been reinstated and will not be waived this time. Millions of vehicles are now being dealt with and a backlog of tests has built up, so the Government didn’t want this to be repeated and has kept testing centres … [Read more...]
MOT failures expected to surge
The number of MOTs set to be carried out in October and November will be 60 percent higher than normal volumes, according to the latest DVSA forecast. Motorists were no longer able to extend their MOT for six months from 1 August. It’s therefore important that the appropriate repair and maintenance is carried out before booking to avoid common MOT failures. Re-tests can be charged for … [Read more...]
MoT extension to end this month
The automatic MOT extension will be revoked from 1 August. Motorists and riders must get their vehicle tested if its MoT has lapsed since March. RAC head of policy Nicholas Lyes said, “Extending MOT tests was the right short-term measure after a number of garages closed when all of us were asked to stay at home. “But with many more garages now open – including all of those that are part of our … [Read more...]