Current economic conditions and less frequent vehicle servicing is making business tough for many garages in Ireland at present. However, some companies who have invested in the right equipment are flourishing in one sector of the market, that of specialist vehicle diagnostics.

The increasing sophistication of vehicle electronics means many garages believe advanced diagnostics is strictly in the dealer domain. However, others who have  invested in Autologic Diagnostics, are enjoying healthy business development and looking forward to a bright future.

Autologic is distributed in Ireland by Diagnostic Solutions and Managing Director Colin Reed has been very impressed by some garages willingness to invest in this type of equipment. He says, "Many of the more progressive garages have seen the great business potential that Autologic can offer and have invested for their future.” He adds, "These businesses are now enjoying the rewards of that investment with many now also looking to add to their packages to cover more vehicle makes.”

The Autologic Solution offers independent garages access to dealer-level software for fifteen premium vehicle manufacturers and is backed up by unrivalled technical support from Master Technicians. It includes coding and flash programming to surpass the functionality of other diagnostic tools and means any diagnosis and repair can be undertaken without the need for external assistance.

Colin says, "One of the great advantages of Autologic is that it is made up of modules. This means you can buy one, or several modules, which may allow you to specialise in a certain manufacturer or vehicle nationality.” Colin points to a number of examples where a company has purchased Audi, VW and Mercedes modules and is immediately set up as a diagnostic and repair specialist for German vehicles. Similarly companies have specialised in French origin vehicles or have for example set themselves up as the independent Land Rover or Jaguar specialist in their area.

Colin points out, "Garages often become known for expertise with a particular make and with Autologic you can take this to the next level and establish yourself as the independent diagnostics expert in this field in a particular area.” Colin has seen first hand the potential benefits of this strategy. He says, "Once you are known as an expert in a particular field, your reputation can quickly grow and you can get lots of business by way of personal recommendation.” He adds, "Many of our customers have also found that they can bring in a substantial amount of diagnostic work form other garages in their area, who prefer to use the services of a fellow independent rather than turn to the franchised sector for what can often be very costly dealer diagnostic assistance.”

Differentiating your business by offering a specialist service is one way in which a garage can thrive, even in these tough economic times and Autologic is one simple and affordable way of achieving this.

For further information on Autologic Diagnostic equipment call Diagnostic Solutions on 01-413-1330 or visit www.diagnosticsolutions.ie.