Garages across Ireland and the UK face increasing issues when trying to access manufacturer vehicle data. 

A coalition comprising trade associations, including GEA, IAAF, NTDA and UKLA, under the banner UK AFCAR is gathering mounting evidence that independent workshops are facing increasingly restricted access to data and repair and maintenance information (RMI).

Car makers including: Mazda, Hyundai, BMW, Audi, Range Rover, Porsche, Citroen, Bentley, Alpa Romeo, Mercedes, Peugeot and Vauxhall/Opel have all been criticised.  

UK AFCAR is fighting to ensure the independent aftermarket retains access to data in line with regulations. Mark Field, chief executive of the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation said,  “The findings have confirmed what we already knew; independent garages are being locked out of repair and maintenance activities by some vehicle manufacturers. It’s imperative that the independent aftermarket works on a level playing field. We encourage technicians to continue to come forward so we can continue to collate solid evidence and lobby to ensure this ongoing issue is resolved and the aftermarket remains protected.”

For more information visit www.iaaf.co.uk/lobbying/