It is hoped that access to technical information for Euro V onwards vehicles should become simpler after a meeting between the European Commission and European auto trade bodies. 

Representatives from the Independent Garage Association (IGA) and the Dutch trade body Bovag have met with the EC and presented a report on access to technical information for newer vehicles. As a result the Commission has committed to carry out a review on the subject and look at ways of making improvements.

Although it has been an EU legal requirement that vehicle manufacturers release all technical information to independent garages since 2010, many in the industry feel that access is still difficult and limited. The car makers also have no obligation to provide technical service bulletins, recall information, online diagnosis and software updates for cars with Euro 5 type approval.

Stuart James, IGA director said: “The report proves that vehicle manufacturers are still not meeting the legal requirements that the European Commission has set for them.” He added, “Technical information is the life blood for independent garages to be able to repair cars in the future. Without it they will struggle to carry out an effective diagnosis. Therefore it is imperative that the European Commission act now to ensure that vehicle manufacturers are meeting the requirements.”

James says that the IGA will continue to work closely with our European partners on this matter and will closely monitor any review to ensure the interests of the independent sector are upheld.