The Garage 359

The
Supporting the Independent Garage and MOT sector
Issue 359
February 2024
Castrol MAGNATEC
providing constant protection
for customers’ engines
FEATURING
INDUSTRY INSIGHT
Training and
Apprenticeships
Rising costs to pose biggest
challenge for three-quarters
of vehicle repairers in 2024
Please visit our website - www.garageandmot.com
1 Front.indd 1 25/01/2024 15:39

Castrol Magnatec FP .indd 1 25/01/2024 16:07

The
Supporting the Independent Garage and MOT sector
Issue 359
February 2024
Welcome to the latest issue of The Garage.
Welcome to the February issue of
The Garage, which includes our
Training and Apprenticeships
feature, which you can read over on
page 26.
The Motor Ombudsman have recently
conducted their annual survey of
independent garages, you can read the
results on page 8. It will come as no
surprise that rising costs are the biggest
challenge for 2024 but all the figures
make interesting reading.
Elsewhere in the magazine you can
catch up on all the latest news and
Subscribe to
The Garage
Contact us
product releases in the industry, including
Castrol celebrating their 125th birthday
with a new Onward, Upward, Forward
strategy on page 16.
Enjoy the magazine.
To ensure you receive a printed copy of The Garage
every issue, visit our website and input your details.
Don’t forget the magazine is FREE to receive.
www.garageandmot.com
Editor
Paul Gregory
paul.gregory@ppmedia.co.uk
Design & Layout
Mark Blacker
mark.blacker@ppmedia.co.uk
Advertising Manager
Nat Excell
Natalie@talk-media.uk
Telephone: 01732 445674
/ 07791 094967
Paul Gregory Editor
paul.gregory@ppmedia.co.uk
The Garage is published by:
Partnership Publishing Limited
Bridge Road
Wellington
Telford
TF1 1EA
Telephone: 01952 415334
Website: www.garageandmot.com
Twitter: @garageandmot
Facebook: @TheGarageMag
Instagram: @GarageandMOT
LinkedIn: TheGarageMagazine
Every care is taken over the accuracy of material in The Garage but the publishers cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Views and
opinions of contributors, advertisers and interviewees to The Garage are not necessarily those of the publishers who cannot accept responsibility for such
contributions.
The
DO THE RIGHT
THING AND
GET THE
RECOGNITION
YOU DESERVE
Prove to customers you have
the highest standards
of workmanship and service
Accreditation to the most
comprehensive Motor
Industry Codes of Practice
Authorised use of
Motor Ombudsman
and CTSI-approved
Code logos
Garage Finder
business leads
Unlimited dispute
resolution support
Exclusive webinars
and events
PR and marketing
promotion
All from less than
£22+VAT per month
JOIN TODAY
business@tmo-org.uk
0345 241 3008
TheMotorOmbudsman.org/
benefits
MOTOR
INDUSTRY CODE OF PRACTICE
SERVICE AND REPAIR
VEHICLE SALES
© Partnership Publishing 2020 / 2024 - All rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher.
3 Welcome.indd 1 25/01/2024 15:41

CONTENTS
The
MONTHLY
ISSUE IN PRINT
AND ONLINE
DIRECT TO
GARAGES & MOT
CENTRES
Inside
News and Products
06. Castrol MAGNATEC - oil range is one of Castrol’s most
expansive product lines, providing constant protection for
customers’ engines. By using the Castrol MAGNATEC portfolio
of products, workshops can service a wide range of cars from
leading manufacturers in accordance with multiple industry
and OEM specifications, viscosities and various engine types.
08. The Motor Ombudsman’s - annual survey of independent
garages and franchise dealer workshops has revealed that
rising operational costs, taxes and energy bills are set to
be the most significant challenge for three-quarters of
vehicle repairers during the coming year.
10. Ring Automotive - set to illuminate the independent
automotive aftermarket with strategic business revamp.
14. Autoelectro: Don’t fall foul to ‘part swapping’ - A
prominent remanufacturer with nearly four decades of
experience, Autoelectro underlines the necessity of
technical proficiency amidst the surge in sophisticated
vehicle components.
The Garage has established
itself as one of the major
trade titles in the UK servicing
the independent garage
sector. With subscription
and free circulation it arrives
on the principals desk of the
independent garage sector
every month. The online
version of the magazine is
emailed to over 10,000 people
in the automotive industry
every month.
www.garageandmot.com
@garageandmot
For more details or to book your
next advert contact Nat Excell on:
Natalie@talk-media.uk
01732 445674 | 07791 094967
16. Castrol - As the brand celebrates its 125th year, Castrol is
unveiling a bold new ‘Onward, Upward, Forward’ strategy to
meet the changing needs of customers.
20. Dynomec - Dynomec DY2300: Revolutionizing Wheel Nut
Removal with British Ingenuity.
Feature
26-31. Training and Apprenticeships
Driving Auto Forwards: IMI report puts the spotlight on short-term
drivers for skills change. Nissens expands its Training Concept,
with a series of free live webinars conducted by their product
specialists. Straightset opens innovative Wheel Alignment Training
Studio. Future-proofing the workforce: Why Training is Key, by
Alistair McCrindle, Head of Operations, Autotech Training. The
chief executive of LKQ UK & Ireland Kevan Wooden, has revealed
his predictions for the independent aftermarket in 2024, with the
electric vehicle (EV) transition set to move up the gears over the
next year.
People
34. People stories and movements from around your industry
Your data
The Garage is published by Partnership Publishing and is produced 12 times a year. Your data and privacy is
important to us. We would never give this information away or sell it onto a third party. You would only receive
magazines or information from one of Partnership Publishing’s publications.
However, if you wish to stop receiving The Garage and would like us to erase all of your information from
our databases then email your name, company and address to paul.gregory@ppmedia.co.uk
4 THE GARAGE
4 Contents.indd 1 26/01/2024 09:08

PERFORMANCE
IS OUR DRIVE.
BILSTEIN B12
BILSTEIN EVO R
BILSTEIN B14
BILSTEIN EVO S
BILSTEIN B16
BILSTEIN EVO T1
BILSTEIN PERFORMANCE
BILSTEIN performance suspension systems put you at the forefront of
driving pleasure. We combine the best technologies, components and parts
for you, your style and your demands. The same ones that we develop and
test for our customers like Porsche, BMW or Mercedes-Benz and refine them
to perfection in our BILSTEIN road tests under motor sports conditions.
performance.bilstein.com
BILS-PRC-DIV-007-22_UK-Anzeigen_Performance_A4_230104_RZ.indd Car Mech_2023_03_Mar_ThyssenKrupp Bilstein FP.indd 1 Bilstein GmbH_FP.indd 1 3 01/02/2023 25/01/2024 04.01.23 11:40
09:56
16:06

Castrol
MAGNATEC
protects a
significant
proportion
of vehicles
on British
roads
The Castrol MAGNATEC oil range is one of
Castrol’s most expansive product lines, providing
constant protection for customers’ engines.
By using the Castrol MAGNATEC portfolio of
products, workshops can service a wide range of
cars from leading manufacturers in accordance
with multiple industry and OEM specifications,
viscosities and various engine types.
A
significant 15.7 million UK cars can all be serviced using
Castrol MAGNATEC, making it easier for workshops to
simplify their inventory management and ensure the
correct compatibility with thousands of vehicles, including
many from Citroën, Fiat, Ford, Honda, Kia, Peugeot, Toyota and
Vauxhall for better engine protection.
In recent years, traffic congestion in urban environments has
become more severe and places more strain on engines and
lubricants. The average driver can stop and start up to 18,000
times a year*. The process of stopping, starting, accelerating,
decelerating and idling generates increased microscopic engine
wear, with metal fragments worn away from the surfaces of
critical engine parts creating damaging particles.
Castrol MAGNATEC’s unique DUALOCK molecules cling to
critical engine parts and lock together to form a powerful layer
of protection, dramatically reducing both engine warm-up and
re-start wear by 50%**.
6 THE GARAGE
6,7, News Castrol Magnatec.indd 1 25/01/2024 15:42

PRODUCTNEWS
showcase Castrol’s new brand identity, including an updated
logo that features a more modern, dynamic, and vibrant
design.
The corners of the bottles have also been transformed into
smart ridges, enhancing their sturdiness and durability, while
the overall bottle shapes have been optimised to maximise
space utilisation on pallets and shelves. This strategic
approach to space optimisation includes relocating the handle
to the corner of the bottle. As a result, there is now a 28%
increase in the number of cartons containing four-litre bottles
that can be accommodated on a single pallet. Compared to
the previous capacity of 28 cartons, a single pallet can now
hold 36 cartons containing five-litre bottles.
Castrol continues to add to the MAGNATEC range. Last year,
the company launched a formulation of MAGNATEC that has
been designed to meet the specific needs of Fiat GS1 and
DS1-compatible engines+++, found in models such as the
Fiat Panda and 500, Jeep Compass and Renegade, and Alfa
Romeo Mito. Castrol MAGNATEC 0W-30 GS1/DS1 is designed
for use across all Fiat petrol and diesel vehicles where Fiat
recommends an ACEA C2 or earlier specification 0W-30
lubricant. The new product is the first Castrol engine oil to
meet Fiat 9.55535-GS1 and Fiat 9.55535-DS1 specifications.
To learn more about the Castrol MAGNATEC product range,
visit www.castrol.co.uk
Driving business for workshops
Castrol has recently initiated a 3-month multi-channel
marketing campaign for MAGNATEC to raise awareness
among car owners, mechanics, distributors, and independent
workshops. To assist in the promotion of MAGNATEC, the
company has developed a marketing toolkit comprising
brochures, wallcharts, email templates, posters, banners,
stickers, and displays to help distributors and workshops
introduce and promote MAGNATEC.
Castrol has designed a striking new MAGNATEC ‘Case’
master image based on the company’s new product packaging
launched last year. In line with Castrol’s PATH360 sustainability
strategy***, this new packaging uses 20% less plastic for the
five-litre bottle****, one of the best-selling products in the
Castrol MAGNATEC range+. In Europe, the new bottles are
expected to save around 1,000 tonnes of plastic per annum
compared to the previous small bottle designs and aggregated
across the full bottle range ++. The new marketing assets also
THE GARAGE 7
6,7, News Castrol Magnatec.indd 2 25/01/2024 15:42

Industry insight
Motor Ombudsman poll
shows rising costs will
pose biggest challenge for
three-quarters of vehicle
repairers in 2024
● Customers putting off essential repairs, and vehicle owners
being unable to afford routine maintenance, is also expected
to affect the bottom line and customer footfall for around
half of vehicle repairers this year
● The research equally revealed that 52% of businesses plan to
invest in recruitment in 2024 to address staff shortages,
which impacted 56% of survey respondents last year
● The Motor Ombudsman’s survey of independent garages and
franchise dealer workshops provides an annual barometer of
business sentiment on the UK’s service and repair sector
The Motor Ombudsman’s annual
survey of independent garages and
franchise dealer workshops has
revealed that rising operational costs, taxes
and energy bills are set to be the most
significant challenge for three-quarters
of vehicle repairers during the coming
year. This will be further compounded by
the expectation that they will have to pay
more than in 2023 for spare parts to fix
customer vehicles, likely due to factors,
such as shortages and inflation (58%),
illustrating the headwinds that continue
to face businesses in the UK’s service and
repair sector.
In light of this increased expenditure,
just over half of respondents (54%) stated
that they would be confronted with the
dilemma of having to raise prices in order
to sustain a viable business that is costing
8 THE GARAGE
8,9, Industry Insight TMO.indd 1 25/01/2024 15:47

INDUSTRYNEWS
The research equally revealed that 52% of businesses plan to invest in recruitment in
2024 to address staff shortages, which impacted 56% of survey respondents last year.
more to run. This also comes at a time when
garages foresee consumers putting off essential
repairs (54%), and routine maintenance (49%)
to save money, as household finances remain
under strain. This mirrored the findings about the
principal hurdles encountered in 2023, where
53% of businesses had witnessed customers
avoid bringing their car in, so as to reduce
the level of spend on their vehicles due to the
widely-reported cost of living crisis.
Echoing the difficulty with recruiting additional
technicians by 56% of repairers when questioned
about the main factors that put them to the test
last year, a greater proportion (58%) expressed
the same concern when looking ahead to the
next 12 months in 2024, as qualified and skilled
mechanics remain an increasingly sought-after
resource in the labour market. This also paints
a more challenging picture for hiring staff, when
The Motor Ombudsman’s own research showed
that 50% of businesses struggled to recruit the
technicians needed to meet demand in 2022.
With both new and used electric vehicles (EVs)
increasing in popularity amongst consumers,
and with fewer mechanical parts than petrol
and diesel models, reducing the need for
maintenance, 26% of repairers responded in
the survey to say that battery-powered cars
would provide less scope for additional revenue
opportunities and replacement parts in 2024.
However, this is encouragingly down from 32%
seen in the same study about expectations ahead
of 2023, as more businesses look to embrace new
technologies and seek other revenue streams.
In terms of the positive developments that
garages and workshops are seeking to bring
to their business this year, over half (52%) said
they would look to invest in recruitment to
expand their workforce from a competitive
pool. In addition, over a third of respondents
(35%) explained that they will be considering
refurbishing existing premises to improve the look
and feel of the experience for customers, with a
fifth planning to add workshop and MOT bays, as
well as additional on-site electric vehicle charging
points to accommodate growing demand for EVs.
Furthermore, nearly a quarter stated they intend
to participate in webinars and training courses
to bring improvements in the way that they work
across their organisation.
Bill Fennell, Chief Ombudsman and Managing
Director of The Motor Ombudsman, said: “Our
latest study presents a clear picture in that
garages and workshops will still have to contend
with a number of underlying challenges this year,
with rising costs one of the most pertinent, as
this ultimately affects their bottom line. This will
need to be balanced with the need to remain
competitive in order to deliver an attractive
proposition to motorists, at a time when
household budgets remain under strain.”
Bill added: “Accreditation to The Motor
Ombudsman will continue to serve as an
important and key point of differentiation
for garages and workshops. This showcases a
commitment to high standards of
work and service, coupled with the
added reassurance that there is an
independent and impartial body on
hand to help bring any unresolved
disputes to a swift and fair conclusion
at no charge to consumers.”
To view the businesses that are
accredited to The Motor Ombudsman’s
Service and Repair Code, visit:
www.TheMotorOmbudsman.org/
Garage-Finder
THE GARAGE 9
8,9, Industry Insight TMO.indd 2 25/01/2024 15:47

NEWS
Celebrating
50 years of
excellence in
the automotive
industry
Ring Automotive set to illuminate
the independent automotive
aftermarket with strategic
business revamp
Ring Automotive, the supplier of
premium quality automotive lighting
and auto electrics, is gearing up to
illuminate the independent automotive
aftermarket with a strategic business revamp.
The company, with an impressive track record
of over 50 years in the industry, is committed
to adapting to the ever-changing dynamics of
the independent aftermarket.
Under the leadership of Managing Director,
Andy Gratton, who took charge in July 2023
after serving as Finance Director for three
years, Ring Automotive is intensifying its
customer-centric approach. Andy has spent
a considerable amount of time engaging
with customers to ensure that Ring remains
dedicated to their evolving needs, building on
the success of the last five decades.
In a decisive move to align the business with
the changing landscape of the automotive
aftermarket, Andy has restructured the Ring
sales teams. Phil Donnelly has been promoted
to the role of Sales Director UK & Ireland,
where he will oversee all UK aftermarket sales
channels.
Simultaneously, Jeremy Rochfort has been
appointed as the International Key Accounts
Manager (IKAM) within the European region
of ams-OSRAM. This strategic move aims
to enhance collaboration with OSRAM on
a pan-European level and drive account
management for customers operating
across multiple European countries.
Andy remarked, “Both Phil and Jeremy
have contributed significantly to Ring during
their time with the company. These changes
create a single point of sales leadership
in our UK organisation while increasing
collaboration with OSRAM on a pan-
European level.”
Alongside these changes, the team
reporting to Phil has been reshaped, with
Keith Booth promoted to the role of Head
of Field Sales. Ring has invested in their
Area Sales team and, as such, Keith is
responsible for seven Area Sales Managers
across the UK & Ireland. Keith’s experience
in the UK Aftermarket will play a crucial role
in strengthening Ring’s sales force.
Ring Automotive is also delighted to
announce the addition of Dan O’Brien, who
joins the company as the Head of Trade
Key Accounts, reporting directly to Phil.
Dan brings a wealth of experience in the UK
automotive aftermarket, further fortifying
Ring’s strategic position.
Dan James who has worked as a Key
Account Manager in the Retail Business Unit
has been promoted to Head of Retail and
will take overall responsibility for the Retail
channel, reporting into Phil.
Andy expressed, “In 2024, Ring will
celebrate its 50th anniversary of trading,
and while we have enjoyed tremendous
success in the automotive market, the
changes are necessary to ensure that Ring
is well-placed to focus on its customers and
varied markets for the next 50 years.”
As Ring enters its second half-century,
the company is dedicated to improving
road safety, driving profitable growth for its
customers, and providing an exciting and
developmental environment for its people.
The year 2024 promises to be an exciting
chapter in Ring’s history, culminating in the
celebration of its 50th anniversary. As part
of the ams-OSRAM group, Ring is wellplaced
to invest in the UK aftermarket and
continue its mission to provide a worldclass
service to its UK & Ireland customer
base.
Andy commented finally that Ring have
other exciting changes to communicate
imminently linked both to their Aftermarket
and Vehicle Conversion businesses, more
details to follow imminently.
Dan O’Brien Phillip Donnelly Andy Gratton Dan James Keith Booth
10 THE GARAGE
10, News RING.indd 1 25/01/2024 15:48

NEWS
Garage Industry Trends passes
500,000 transaction milestone
More than 500,000 independent garage transactions have now been logged
on Garage Hive’s real-time data platform, Garage Industry Trends.
The website tracks average invoice value, future bookings,
labour rates, net promoter score (NPS) and, thanks to the
recent development of Trends 2.0, now also shows demand for
repairs and maintenance by vehicle age and fuel type.
“It’s a substantial data set that’s increasing at a rate of 8,000 lines
per day,” said Alex Lindley, Director of Garage Hive. “It provides a
national average which garage owners can use to compare their
own business performance against.”
Some 140 opted-in workshops have shared anonymised data
through 506,900 transactions since Garage Industry Trends
launched in September 2022.
The data shows that labour rates increased by 7.2 per cent in
2023, rising from £67.88 to £72.82. Geographically, the South East
boasts the highest labour rate at £82.52, while Wales has the lowest
at £61.77.
The average invoice value grew by 11 per cent last year from
£252 to £280. Diesel vehicles generated the highest average bill at
£320.68, followed by petrol at £235.96. Hybrid and electric vehicles
(EVs) registered average invoice values of £223.82 and £201.44,
respectively.
Revenue distribution by fuel type shows a predominant reliance
on diesel vehicles, contributing 61.68 per cent of the revenue,
followed by petrol at 35.96 per cent. Hybrid and EVs contributed to
1.73 per cent and 0.63 per cent, respectively.
Vehicles registered in 2016 generated the most invoices and
highest revenue, contributing to over 10 per cent of all revenue. The
data also shows fluctuations in future bookings, with a peak of 101
future bookings in September 2023 and a low of 57 in May 2023.
“This is unique insight which the entire industry can benefit from
and it’s completely free to access,” said Alex. “Trends has already
helped on the government’s 4-2-2 MOT consultation, offering clear
evidence why reduced MOT test frequency would be detrimental for
UK road safety.”
Alongside aggregated data from opted-in garages that use Garage
Hive, ‘MOT Data Trends’ additionally analyses 250 million lines of
DVSA MOT data. It features more than 20 reports, which users can
filter to identify new trends in the data.
To view all the data and for further information visit:
www.garageindustrytrends.com
Bowmonk & Tapley have for decades been the
most recognised and trusted name in portable
brake testers and garage equipment.
The Bowmonk BrakeCheck is the electronic
version that carries on from that pedigree.
BrakeCheck is DVSA approved for all classes of
vehicle and it records braking efficiency and
percentage of braking imbalance.
• Portable & easy to use
• No connections to vehicle required
• GEA MTS Connected Approved (Upgrade Available)
• DVSA approved for all classes of vehicle
• Print results to optional portable wireless printer
• Approved for 6-weekly checks
• Download results to PC (optional software required)
• Approved for quarterly brake test requirements
• Records braking efficiency and percentage of braking imbalance
Bowmonk Ltd, Diamond Road, Norwich, NR6 6AW T: +44 (0)1603 485 153 E: info@bowmonk.com www.bowmonk.com
11, News Industry Trends.indd 1 25/01/2024 15:49

ONKAR CHAHAL
A KNIGHT OF THE ROAD!
As a former AA and RAC patrolman, I got to
experience some intriguing situations and
meet some real interesting people.
There was the young lady in her Ford Ka that was smoking
and making gurgling noises, Watford Gap services
southbound. She stopped to check her oil level and it was
low, so she bought some oil and filled it up. Literally! She bought
four five litre bottles of oil and continued to pour them into
the engine until the oil was right at the top of the engine! Upon
draining it to the correct level I started the car up, clearing the
residue before sending her on her way.
Or the call I received very late on a week night. Mercedes stuck
in park, Watford Gap services northbound. I thought about calling
the customer and talking him through it over the phone, but
being a Mercedes shout I thought I better make an appearance,
just in case. As I get out to introduce myself, he immediate opens
fire on me, “What time do you call this, I’ve been waiting here for
hours, this isn’t good enough.” he tells me.
I try to calm him down but he’s at 100 and not happy. I then tell
him I only just got the job about 15 minutes ago but he doesn’t
want to know. We sit in his car with him behind the wheel and he
immediately starts trying to pull the gear lever out of park like a
happy teenager. I ask him to start the car which only aggravates
him more, “What difference will that make.” he mutters under
his breath. Engine running, it’s still stuck in park. I then ask him to
put his foot on the brake. “I know how to drive.” he tells me with
more than a hint of sarcasm.
“Try it now.” I tell him.
Immediately the car drops into drive and his mood changes
- instantly! “Oh, look at that.” he says, followed by “I hope you
didn’t have to drive out far, isn’t it a cold night.” and is now
becoming my best friend. I knew I should have called him instead
. . .
There was the car on the M6 southbound, puncture no spare.
These jobs used to infuriate me, who would be so silly as to go
By Onkar Chahal
on a motorway journey without a spare, I thought to myself as I
approached the scene. Then I saw what the issue was. A young
lady in very smart office attire, very attractive, short black skirt
and black high heels with a white blouse. Hair and makeup were
perfect, she could be on a fashion shoot. She had jacked the car
up, got the spare wheel out and had the wheel brace in her hand
. . . she had it all under control so why was I there?
“My husband has cable tied the wheel trim on, I can’t get it
off to change the wheel.”she told me very angrily! She had two
bloody patches on her knee’s from kneeling, scuffed her shoes
on the toes and had brake dust all over her hands, face and crisp
white blouse. I told her to clean herself up in the cabin whilst I
cut the cable ties and changed her wheel for her. I then waited a
few minutes for her to calm down before sending her on her way.
“Wait till I see him.” she said as she jumped out of the cab, very
menacingly!
Oh how I miss the fun of being out on the open road. I was a
very nice man, a knight on the road you could say.
(You may have to Google those last two references, I am
showing my age!)
12 THE GARAGE
12 Opinion Onkar.indd 1 25/01/2024 15:49

A SAFE SOLUTION FOR ALL GARAGES
An Anti-Slip GRP Solution
for Garage Inspection Pits
To achieve total safety around vehicle inspection pits,
anti-slip GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) grating can be
installed with side ramps or in the majority of cases the
grating covers simply slot into a rebated ledge/bearer.
GRP garage covers are lightweight to lift out and
strong enough to take heavy weight. We recommend
our Open Mesh GRP Grating thickness at 38mm or
50mm.
We can cover Bus & Coach Pits, Truck, Trailer & HGV Pits,
Wide Bodied Vehicle Pits, Railway & Locomotive Pits,
DVSA ATF Testing Pits.
BENEFITS OF GRIPCLAD’S
GRP FLOOR GRATING
● Lightweight and easy to lift
and shift
● Safe anti-slip walking surface
● Cut to manageable size and
easily slotted and laid
● If no angle, use our ramp
edging
● Anti-slip surface
● Virtually zero maintenance
● Neat and tidy look
For further details on all our products contact: 023 8040 6796
Email: enquiries@gripclad.co.uk Web: www.gripclad.co.uk/applications/garage-inspection-pit/
AS-235SB
3.5T TWO POST LIFT
£1,350 +VAT
AS-6140TA
4T TWO POST LIFT
AS-6150A
5T TWO POST LIFT
AS-7530D
MOBILE SCISSOR LIFT
AS-7430H LOW ENTRY
FULL RISE SCISSOR
£1,699 +VAT £2,450 +VAT £1,699 +VAT £2,799 +VAT
AS-6745P
4.2T FOUR POST LIFT
AS-8240TP
4T SCISSOR LIFT
AS-7251
SINGLE POST LIFT
AS-24SA
TYRE MACHINE
AS-B24
WHEEL BALANCER
£3,450 +VAT £5,300 +VAT £2,350 +VAT £740 +VAT £645 +VAT
This is a sample of our huge range of garage equipment,
always in stock and ready for immediate despatch.
Visit the website
for our full range
www.automotechservices.co.uk Tel: 01889 579945
EST 1972
THE GARAGE 13
13, News Adverts.indd 1 25/01/2024 15:50

NEWS
AUTOELECTRO:
Don’t fall foul to ‘part swapping’
Autoelectro, a prominent
remanufacturer with
nearly four decades of
experience, underlines
the necessity of technical
proficiency amidst the
surge in sophisticated
vehicle components.
In an era dominated by
innovation, the rotating
electrics specialist stands
as an advocate for
education and proactive
problem-solving.
Despite Autoelectro still selling dynamos, inertia starter
motors and ACR alternators today, both the sector and
the professionals it services find themselves amidst a
technological revolution where electronic control units (ECUs)
direct water-cooled, reversible alternators, stop/start systems,
hybrid configurations, and a plethora of advanced starters, including
tandem and dual solenoid varieties.
This change in direction requires a departure from the traditional
approach of simply swapping out parts to address issues. Instead,
the focus needs to shift towards understanding the intricacies of
these modern components to diagnose and resolve the root causes
of problems.
Autoelectro is approaching four decades and, therefore,
recognises the significance of technical understanding in the current
automotive landscape. It is particularly concerned about switches
from quality remanufactured parts towards mass-produced
alternatives from the Far East, forfeiting the technical expertise
within the industry.
Not finding the underlying cause
For Autoelectro one of the core issues is the tendency to replace
suspected faulty parts without delving into the underlying causes
of the problem. This approach, addressing symptoms rather than
causes, can lead to recurring issues and fails to provide a sustainable
solution. It’s a short-term fix, not a long-term solution.
Autoelectro’s Harnek Bhogal said: “Our commitment to technical
excellence sets us apart. Unlike the trend of batch testing, every
part released by us undergoes two rounds of testing – first at the
component level and then as a complete unit on OE-spec test
equipment. This meticulous testing process ensures that our parts
meet the highest standards before reaching the market.”
Harnek also highlighted Autoelectro’s engineers; they play a
crucial role in this process. By working with old cores and identifying
common themes among specific part numbers, Autoelectro’s
ability to strip, inspect and test exchange parts gets straight to the
root causes of recurring faults. This proactive approach allows the
company to go beyond merely supplying parts, offering invaluable
insights into potential issues associated with specific engines or
vehicle makes and models, remanufacturing a part to meet, or even
exceed, OE-specification.
Collaboration between motor factors
and technicians “critical”
Furthermore, Autoelectro believes the importance of collaboration
between motor factors and technicians is critical. Blindly swapping
parts without addressing the true problem could lead to an erosion
of trust between garages and factors.
Harnek added: “We recognise this challenge and actively support
garage technicians by providing part-specific technical bulletins.
These offer guidance on common faults, best practices, and key
indicators to look for in the old cores they remove from vehicles.”
One such example is if a pattern emerges where every returned
old core is contaminated with fluid: Autoelectro issues a technical
bulletin advising technicians to investigate and correct leaks before
installing replacement parts; in fact, below are two examples of
Autoelectro using its unique ability of testing, stripping down and
investigating old cores to find common issues:
14 THE GARAGE
14,15, News AutoElectro x2 edits.indd 1 25/01/2024 15:51

NEWS
Classic and modern
references among
latest new-to-range
stock from Autoelectro
AEG1472 (Ford Transit 2.0 diesel alternator (2016-onwards)):
possible tensioning or belt issue that causes premature failure of
the clutch pulley and, thus, the premature failure of the alternator.
Autoelectro recommends changing the belt and tensioner at the
same time as replacing the alternator to avoid the same pulley
issue happening again. Failing to do so may lead to the same fault
occurring on replacement parts.
AEY2803 (Chevrolet Captiva and Cruze/Vauxhall Antara 2.0-2.2
diesel starter motor (2011-2016)): a common fault where the wiring
insulation on the vehicle is not correctly heat shrunk, which causes
the B+ terminal on the solenoid to overheat and melt, leading to
the premature failure of the starter motor. Therefore, inside every
AEY2803 box supplied, Autoelectro provides a warning notice,
advising the technician and showing images of what damage to the
solenoid and terminals looks like, to avoid the same issue happening
again.
Harnek said: “Both of the faults on these part numbers can often
be intermittent due to the nature of them; the tensioning issue,
for instance, may cause the belt to slip, which can cause sporadic
charging faults, while the incorrectly heat shrunk wiring insulation
may cause intermittent starting issues on the vehicle, which will get
worse over time.
“It is easy to see how a technician may think this is just due to
wear and tear on the unit, when in reality, that is not the case, and
the root cause must be fixed.”
By sharing these types of insights into common issues, as well as
the likes of belt slippage or dust/fluid contamination, Autoelectro
allows technicians to diagnose and rectify problems at the source:
“They should be more confident and comfortable,” Harnek
concluded.
As a long-standing, award-winning remanufacturer and a business
that enjoys consistent year-on-year growth, Autoelectro champions
the need for technical expertise in an era increasingly dominated by
complex and sophisticated vehicle components.
By stressing education, detailed understanding, and proactive
problem-solving, Autoelectro not only provides OE-spec
remanufactured parts but also adopts a collaborative approach
where workshops and suppliers work hand-in-hand to address the
root causes of potential issues.
For more information about Autoelectro, visit:
www.autoelectro.co.uk
Mercedes Benz, Lamborghini, Hyundai and MG units
are just some of eclectic new-to-range references
recently brought to market at the request of
Autoelectro customers.
This diverse list of remanufactured starter motors and
alternators sums up the company’s ability to cater all
types of demands – no matter how rare, classic, or new
to the automotive aftermarket they may be.
Autoelectro, approaching 40 years in business,
has the unique ability to strip, inspect and test old
cores. Its engineers know what to look for in terms
of faults, before replacing what is necessary and
then remanufacture a part to meet, or exceed, OEspecification.
In this latest round-up, focusing on alternators first,
Autoelectro now stocks a Mercedes Benz AMG A45,
CLA45 2.0 petrol 2020-onwards (AEG1640), Hyundai
i10 1.0 Blue Drive petrol 2018-onwards (AEG1645),
Honda Civic 1.6 diesel 2018-onwards (AEG1648) and Alfa
Romeo Stelvio 2.9 V6 petrol (2018-onwards).
Switching to starter motors, the remanufacturer’s
stock has been bolstered with units for a Lamborghini
Countach, Diablo 5.2 V12 1985-1990 (AEX1498), MG ZS
1.0 petrol 2017-onwards (AEX1499), Vauxhall Astra 1.5
diesel automatic 2019-onwards (AEX1500) and Nissan
X-Trail 1.3 petrol 2019-onwards (AEX1501).
Each of these units are available from stock now and
can be delivered, carriage-free, on the next working
day AM (UK mainland). 1986 Dashboard customers can
access live prices and stock availability, submit old core
returns, and track their orders in real time.
To sign-up or learn more about Autoelectro,
visit www.autoelectro.co.uk
THE GARAGE 15
14,15, News AutoElectro x2 edits.indd 2 25/01/2024 15:51

NEWS
Castrol turns 125,
looks to the future
with new strategy
2024 marks a momentous 125th anniversary milestone for Castrol, a global leader in lubricants
and part of the bp group. As the brand celebrates its 125th year, Castrol is unveiling a bold
new ‘Onward, Upward, Forward’ strategy to meet the changing needs of customers, as well
as a special 125-year commemorative logo that will be used throughout 2024 in events and
sponsorships across the world.
16 THE GARAGE
16,17, News Castrol 125 years.indd 1 25/01/2024 15:53

a planned $60 million investment in a new, state-of-the-art
electric vehicle (EV) battery testing centre and analytical
laboratory in the UK.
Under the ‘Onward’ pillar of its strategy, Castrol has already
launched a range of advanced Castrol ON EV Fluids, including
EV Transmission Fluids, EV Thermal Fluids and EV Greases.
The market for electric vehicles will most likely co-exist with
continued demand for internal combustion engine (ICE) and
hybrids for many years. Castrol aims to keep helping ICE and
hybrid vehicles be more efficient, while aiming to lead the way in
EV Fluids.
Castrol will also focus on launching more ‘circular’ products
and offers by re-using base oils, which are the main constituent
ingredient in lubricants. More circular transmission fluid has
already been tested in an extreme environment, with Jaguar TCS
Racing successfully utilising Castrol’s transmission fluid in their
Formula E race cars at the 2023 Monaco E-Prix.
With the ‘Upward’ pillar of its strategy, Castrol will support
its industrial customers to create more efficiencies, boost
productivity, deliver circularity and drive value. Castrol serves
the automotive, machinery manufacturing, robotics, aerospace,
and wind sectors and, in 2023, it partnered with SKF to introduce
its ‘Oil as a Service’ offer for the metalworking industry. This
enables re-use of the lubricant fluid, reducing consumption while
improving machine performance.
Castrol also entered a research collaboration with the
Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s (MIT) Media Lab to
support its AstroAnt Payload Program. AstroAnts constitute
a miniature robotic swarm designed to perform inspections
and diagnostic tasks on the external surfaces of spacecraft,
rovers, and landers. Castrol will work closely with the MIT Media
Lab to test space-grade lubricants to withstand the extreme
environment of the lunar surface.
While the ‘Onward’ and ‘Upward’ pillars of the Castrol strategy
focus on strengthening and growing existing areas of the
company’s business, its ‘Forward’ initiatives chart out new areas
where Castrol has the knowledge, capability and expertise to win.
Castrol has identified thermal management and diversification
into data centre cooling solutions as new growth opportunities.
Castrol’s work on accelerating the adoption of immersion cooling
for more efficient and more sustainable data centre operations is
gaining momentum, with GRC, Hypertec, Submer and IT hardware
OEMs approving the use of Castrol ON immersion cooling fluids.
New strategy
l Onward: advancing mobility solutions that help people
and goods move with greater efficiency through innovative
technologies and a commitment to the principles of circularity.
l Upward: helping Castrol’s industrial customers, and the
machines they rely on, to perform better, improving the
efficiency of their operations.
l Forward: exploring exciting opportunities and a path of
progressive diversification. Castrol’s initiatives include endto-end
digital and service solutions, data centre immersion
cooling, and battery thermal management. This forwardthinking
approach underscores Castrol’s commitment to staying
at the forefront of innovation.
Already in action
The world of mobility is changing, and Castrol has the potential
to help drive that change. To signal this change and reflect its
new direction, Castrol refreshed its iconic brand in 2023.
To remain at the cutting edge of innovation and be futureready,
Castrol is investing further in its global technology
hubs in China, Germany, and the Americas, as well as making
Michelle Jou, CEO of Castrol concludes: “As we celebrate 125
years, Castrol is not just reflecting on the past but charting a
course for the future. Our ‘Onward, Upward, Forward’ strategy
embodies our dedication to accelerating our customers’
progress, helping them face the challenges of tomorrow. We
aim to grow our core business in new ways, using our cuttingedge
technology and our trusted global brand to stay at the
forefront of our sector. We’re developing more circular offers to
help customers achieve their sustainability goals, and exploring
exciting new growth opportunities beyond lubricants. It’s a
privilege to take Castrol’s 125-year-old iconic brand forward to
serve the changing needs of customers and set our business up
for future success.”
THE GARAGE 17
16,17, News Castrol 125 years.indd 2 25/01/2024 15:53

34637
MIG
WELDERS
Quality machines
from Britain’s
leading supplier
See online for
included
accessories 135TE
FROM HEADER ONLY
VAT
EXC.
SIZES UPTO
260 AMPS
IN STOCK
TURBO AIR
COMPRESSORS
Superb range ideal for DIY, hobby &
semi-professional
use
£
249 .00
£298.80 inc.VAT
# WAS £356.39 inc.VAT
Min-Max
model
Amps exc.VAT inc.VAT
PRO90 24-90 £249.00 £298.80
135TE Turbo# 30-130 £289.98 £347.98
Britain’s Tools & Machinery Specialist
151TE Turbo 30-150 £345.00 £414.00
FROM ONLY
TURBO DUAL
DIESEL/PARAFFIN
FAN HEATERS
ELECTRIC HEATERS
£ DOUBLE
119 .98
FAN GAS
VOLTAGE HEATERS
FROM ONLY
DOUBLE £143.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
230&
2.8kW
£ DOUBLE
HEATERS
Ideal for fast efficient heating
69 DOUBLE
110
.98
Offering low cost,
Extra-long run fuel tanks – up to
2850
£83.98 FOOTER inc.VAT BEST
SELLER
VOLT
Motor
53 litres Variable heat output with
efficient heating
IN STOCK FROM
NEW
Model
HP CFM Tank
£226.80 inc.VAT thermostat control
2.8kW
DEVIL
DEVIL
FROM ONLY
£ 94 6003
7003
DOUBLE
DOUBLE
.99
Propane
Heat
£113.99 FOOTER inc.VAT
gas fired
FROM ONLY
FROM ONLY
XR80
£ DOUBLE
229 .00 £ DOUBLE
Model Voltage Output exc.VAT inc.VAT
29 DOUBLE
.98
Devil 6003 230V 1.5-3kW £69.98 £83.98
Max. Output
DOUBLE £274.80 FOOTER inc.VAT £35.98 FOOTER inc.VAT 2800PTC-B
Devil 7003* 230V 3kW £76.99 £92.39
Model
kW exc.VAT inc.VAT
Little Devil II 10.3 £94.99 £113.99 model MAX output exc.VAT inc.VAT
Devil 7005# 400V 5kW £98.99 £118.79
Devil 700 15 £119.98 £143.98
XR60 14.7kW £229.00 £274.80
Max.
Devil 6009 400V 4.5-9kW £124.99 £149.99
Devil 900 24.9 £159.98 £191.98
XR80 20.5kW £279.00 £334.80 Model
Output exc.VAT inc.VAT Devil 7009 400V 9kW £152.99 £183.59
Devil 1600 36.6 £189.98 £227.98
XR110 29.3kW £329.00 £394.80 DEVIL 2000PTC-B 2kW £29.98 £35.98 Devil 6015 400V 5-10-15kW £189.98 £227.98
Devil 2100 49.8 £269.00 £322.80
XR160 46.9kW £399.00 £478.80 Devil 2850 2.8kW £42.99 £51.59 Devil 7015 400V 15kW £229.98 £275.98
Devil 4000 131 £479.00 £574.80
XR210 61.5kW £459.00 £550.80 Devil 2800PTC-B 2.8kW £49.98 £59.98
* WAS £83.98 inc.VAT # WAS £117.59 inc.VAT
PADDED SEAT
NO GAS/GAS
MMA & ARC/TIG
INVERTER
MIG WELDER
INVERTER WELDERS
MIG WELDER
MECHANICS
Professional type torch with on/off control
Ideal for home
UTILITY
FROM ONLY usage, including
MIN/MAX
Turbo fan cooled Easy conversion to gas
£ DOUBLE
104 .99
AMPS
SEAT
with optional accessories
automotive and
40/100
DOUBLE £125.99 FOOTER inc.VAT general repairs
BALL
BEARING
Plug in, switch on,
PRICE CUT
DRAWERS
£ FROM ONLY
get welding
230V
239 FROM ONLY
DOUBLE
.00
PRICE CUT
DOUBLE £286.80 FOOTER inc.VAT
IMIG100NG
£
149 .98
£ DOUBLE
79 .98
FROM HEADER ONLY
SWIVEL
NO GAS
£179.98 DOUBLE inc.VAT
CMUS3
£95.98 £
DOUBLE inc.VAT
CASTORS
589 .00
WAS £189.59 inc.VAT
WAS £101.99 inc.VAT
£706.80 inc.VAT
NO GAS/GAS
INTELLIGENT
AIR.
MIG WELDERS
CHARGER/
DISP
Super light &
MODEL CFM MOTOR
(HP)
compact
MAINTAINERS
MIG145
Uses fl ux cored
steel wire, which
Min/Max Electrode
creates own gas
Model Min/Max Amps exc.VAT inc.VAT
Output Dia.
shroud as it burns
MIG106 40/100 £179.98 £215.98 Model Current (mm) exc.VAT inc.VAT
FROM ONLY
DOUBLE
MIG145 35/135 £239.00 £286.80 MMA140A 20A-140A 1.6-3.2 £104.99 £125.99
£ 39 FROM ONLY
DOUBLE
.98
MIG196 40/180 £279.00 £334.80 MMA200A 20A-200A 1.6-4.0 £139.98 £167.98 £ DOUBLE
AT165 10A-160A 2.5/3.2/4.0 £219.98 £263.98 259 .00
£47.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
MIG262 TE 30/150 £345.00 £414.00
DOUBLE £310.80 FOOTER inc.VAT
IBC40
GWH7
FROM ONLY
BEST
£ DOUBLE
DOUBLE
DIAGNOSTICS
36 .99
151EN
SELLER
£44.39 FOOTER inc.VAT ARC
SANDBLASTERS
Professional Engine
ACTIVATED
Heavy duty steel
Diagnostic & EOBD/
HEADSHIELDS
construction
OBD ll Fault Code
Max. exc. WAS sandblasters for the quick
Reader
Activates instantly when
Model Volts Charge VAT inc.VAT inc.VAT removal of surface rust,
Arc is struck Protects to
IBC7 12/24V 7A £39.98 £47.98 paint, dirt/grease etc.
PRICE CUT
EN379 Suitable for arc, Model Amps exc.VAT inc.VAT
IBC15 12V 15A £49.98 £59.98
£ DOUBLE
MIG, TIG & gas welding 151EN 30-150 £259.00 £310.80
IBC20 12/24V 20A £66.99 £83.98 £80.39 PRICE CUT
79 .98
NOW FROM
£95.98 DOUBLE inc.VAT
SEE FULL RANGE 130EN 30-130 £269.00 £322.80
IBC25 12/24V 25A £84.99 £107.98 £101.99 £
WAS £103.19 inc.VAT CEOBDPRO
IN-STORE/ONLINE 160EN 30-150 £309.00 £370.80
IBC40 12/24V 40A £104.99 £131.98 £125.99 169 .00
£202.80 inc.VAT
ANGLE GRINDERS BATTERY CHARGERS CAR RAMPS
INC. DISC
INCLUDES
TOOL KIT
/ENGINE STARTERS
Lift cars FROM ONLY
& HANDLE
SANDBLASTING GUN,
Ammeter
FROM ONLY SETS
safely £ DOUBLE
39 .98
DELIVERY HOSE, 4
£ DOUBLE
Multiposition
29 DOUBLE
.98
Tough £47.98 DOUBLE inc.VAT PER
CERAMIC NOZZLES
£ FROM ONLY
£35.98 FOOTER inc.VAT 189 AND SAFETY HOOD
DOUBLE
.98
angled PER PAIR
DOUBLE £227.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
charge
steel
regulator
construction
Tank
#WAS £87.59 inc.VAT CHT859
Overload
Model Volume
Model Disc (mm) Motor exc.VAT inc.VAT
protection
Model Capacity exc.VAT inc.VAT
CAG800B 115 800W £29.98 £35.98
on charging
CR2 2000kg £39.98 £47.98
CON1150# 115 1150W £36.99 £44.39 300 HAND
cycle
CRW25 2500kg £47.99 £57.59
PRICE CUT
TOOLS
£ DOUBLE
INCLUDED
89 .98
£107.98 DOUBLE inc.VAT
BC190
HEAVY DUTY
STRUT SPRING
Model Desc Pieces exc.VAT inc.VAT
WAS £112.79 inc.VAT
Max Amps
WAS LONG REACH
CHT641 DIY Tool Kit/ 199 £86.99 £104.39
COMPRESSOR £ FROM ONLY
Charge/
inc. JACKS
Foot operated 189 DOUBLE
.98
Cantilever Box
Model Boost exc.VAT VAT inc.VAT
FROM HEADER ONLY
DOUBLE £227.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
PRO394 Tool Kit/Cantilever
Toolbox
BC125 20/120 £89.98 £112.79 £107.98 269 .00
90 £109.98 £131.98
hydraulic powered
£
Adjustable for springs up
to 400mm dia. & 520mm in
CHT862 Mechanics Tool 235 £109.98 £131.98 BC190 38/180 £104.99 £135.59 £125.99 £322.80 inc.VAT
BC210C 25/200 £149.98 £179.98
length Adjustable spring
Kit/Box
LOAD RATING:
CHT859 Home Garage 300 £189.98 £227.98 WBC180 35/180 £159.98 £191.98 Model Tonnes exc.VAT WAS inc.VAT inc.VAT
retainers
500KG PER
Repair Kit/Chest
WBC240 45/240 £184.99 £227.98 £221.99 CTJ2GLS 2 £269.00 £322.80 £ FROM ONLY DOLLY
Inc. spring
63 DOUBLE
.99
PRO396 Tools Set/7 222 £649.00 £778.80 WBC400 60/350 £219.00 £262.80 CTJ5GLS 5 £459.00 £562.80 £550.80 £76.79 inc.VAT
retaining guard
Drawer Cabinet
BC520P 50/510 £259.00 £310.80 CTJ10GLS 10 £609.00 £766.80 £730.80 PER PAIR 603x370x150mm
ALUMINIUM
2 & 3 TONNE
RACING JACKS 18V ½"
TROLLEY JACKS
FROM ONLY
CFC100
£ DOUBLE
Quick lift Non-marking
IMPACT
44 DOUBLE
.99
£53.99 FOOTER inc.VAT
nylon wheels Rubber
WRENCHES
£ FROM ONLY
219
contact pad - helps protect
3 forward and
DOUBLE
.98
DOUBLE £263.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
CTJ2250LP
vehicle undersides
reverse gears
LOW
ENTRY
FROM ONLY
£
1 TONNE
DOUBLE
CTJ1250AB
ONLY
99. 98
FOLDING
85MM
DOUBLE £119.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
WORKSHOP
BRUSHLESS
CRANE
450NM
Folding and fi xed
frames available
JACKS ALSO IN
FROM ONLY
STOCK UP TO 5 TONNE
PER SHELF
exc.VAT
exc.VAT
exc.VAT
EXC.VAT
EXC.VAT
£ DOUBLE
109 .98 EXC.VAT
DOUBLE £131.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
† WAS £215.98 inc.VAT
Model Lifting Cap. exc.VAT inc.VAT
CTJ1500QL 1.5T £109.98 £131.98
CTJ1250AC 1.25T £134.99 £161.99
CTJ2500QLGB† 2.5T £169.98 £203.98
CTJ1800AB 1.8T £199.98 £239.98
exc.VAT
2 X 2AH
EXC.VAT
exc.VAT
exc.VAT
EXC.VAT
EXC.VAT
EXC.VAT
exc.VAT
exc.VAT
exc.VAT
WHEEL DOLLY (PAIR)
AWD1
BOLTLESS
SHELVING/
BENCHES
Simple fast assembly
in minutes using only a
hammer
(evenly
distributed)
Strong 9mm
fi breboard
shelves
Robust, rugged
construction
Model Type Tonne exc.VAT inc.VAT
(evenly
Overload safety
distributed)
` WAS £131.98 inc.VAT
CTJ2L Long 2 £44.99 £53.99
CHOICE OF 5 COLOURS 350 Strong 12 mm
KG
CIR18LIC
valve
• WAS £147.59 inc.VAT
CTJ2000LPB DIY Low Profile 2 £0.00 £0.00
CTJ2250LP* Low Profile 2.25 £52.99 £63.59 RED, BLUE, GREY, SILVER
fi breboard
& GALVANISED STEEL PER SHELF shelves
Model Desc Batteries exc.VAT inc.VAT
CTJ3000GB Pro Garage 3 £109.98 £131.98
CCIW160` Cordless 2X 2AH £99.98 £119.98
CTJ3000QLB Quick Lift 3 £119.98 £143.98 FROM ONLY
Dims exc. inc.
LI-ION
BEST
£ DOUBLE
42
CIR18LIC• Cordless, 2X 2AH
Brushless LI-ION £119.95 £143.94 Fully tested
CTJ2QLP Low Quick Lift 2 £159.98 £191.98 DOUBLE EXC.VAT .99 Model WxDxH(mm) VAT VAT
to proof load
SELLER * CTJ2250LP has a 2.25 tonne capacity, has a £51.59 FOOTER inc.VAT 150kg 800x300x1500 £42.99 £51.59
low entry of only 80mm and includes 2 sockets
350kg 900x400x1800 £59.98 £71.98
VAT
EXC.VAT
9exc.VAT
exc.VAT
EXC.
65
SUPERTORES
NATIONWIDE
EXC.VAT
EXC.VAT
exc.
VAT
inc.
VAT
Tiger 8/260 2 7 24ltr £119.98 £143.98
Tiger 7/260 2 7.8 24ltr £119.98 £143.98
Tiger 8/550 2 7 50ltr £159.98 £191.98
Tiger 11/550 2.5 9.3 50ltr £179.98 £215.98
Tiger 16/550 3 14.5 50ltr £249.00 £298.80
Tiger 16/1050 3 14.5 100ltr £309.00 £370.80
INDUSTRIAL AIR
COMPRESSORS
Top quality belt driven air compressors for industrial &
commercial users inc; garages, factories, workshops
and farms. 10 bar/150psi max working pressure
VAT
EXC.
XEV16/100 †V-Twin *230V
AIR
RCVR EXC.VAT INC.VAT
XEV16/100 (OL)†* 14 3 100ltr £589.00 £706.80
XEV16/150 (OL)†* 14 3 150ltr £659.00 £790.80
XEV16/200(OL)†* 14 3 200ltr £719.00 £862.80
XEV16/150(400V)† 14 3 150ltr £699.00 £838.80
XE18/200 (OL)†* 18 4 200ltr £759.00 £910.80
XE36C200† 30 7.5HP 200Ltr £1199.00 £1438.80
XE29/270†* 28 2X3HP 270Ltr £1399.00 £1678.80
XE37/270 (OL)†* 36 2x 4 270ltr £1479.00 £1774.80
SE46C270† 40 10HP 270Ltr £2129.00 £2554.80
exc.VAT
WAS £214.80 inc.VAT
exc.VAT
TIGER 16/550
Flow Rate
Req. exc.VAT inc.VAT
CPSB100B* 32 litre 6-25 cfm £169.00 £202.80
CPSB200B# 63 litre 6-25 cfm £209.00 £250.80
* WAS £214.80 inc.VAT # WAS £274.80 inc.VAT
exc.VAT
SWIVEL, NON
MARKING
CASTORS
34372
P
Idea
triple l
tubing
Model
CIG812
CIG810
CIG812
CIG810
CIG812
CIG812
CIG143
CIG164
150
PAD
• Oil
backs
for ea
Model
CMC36
CMC45
CMC60
Model
Tiger1
Tiger2
Tiger3
PLS19
PLS22
PLS26
PLS36
BARN
B’HAM
B’HAM
BOLTO
BRAD
BRIGH
BRIST
BURTO
CAMB
CARD
CARLI
CHELT
CHEST
COLCH
COVEN
CROY
DARL
DEAL
DERB
DONC
DUND
EDINB
a
Machine 34637 (71) Mart CAR2 DPS.indd DPS (full) 1 Long A.indd 1 25/01/2024 23/11/2023 16:14
16:58
34637 (

IR
RS
50
inc.
VAT
£143.98
£143.98
£191.98
£215.98
£298.80
£370.80
strial &
hops
e
*230V
NC.VAT
706.80
790.80
862.80
838.80
910.80
438.80
678.80
774.80
554.80
c.VAT
202.80
250.80
T
R)
AWD1
NON
ING
RS
SS
G/
ES
ly
a
ed)
mm
rd
d)
2 mm
d
inc.
VAT
£51.59
£71.98
34372
PAY Monthly
Spread the cost over 12,
24, 36, 48 or 60 months
Any mix of products
over £300
17.9% APR
EXTRA
LONG 1m
LEADS
GARAGES/WORKSHOPS
CIG81212
Ideal for use as a garage/workshop Extra tough
triple layer cover Heavy duty powder coated steel
tubing Ratchet tight tensioning
Model size (LxWxH) exc.VAT inc.VAT
CIG81212 3.6x3.6x2.5m £249.00 £298.80
CIG81015 4.5x3x2.4m £279.00 £334.80
CIG81216 4.9x3.7x2.5m £329.00 £394.80
CIG81020 6.1x3x2.4m £349.00 £418.80
CIG81220 6.1x3.7x2.5m £399.00 £478.80
CIG81224 7.3x3.7x2.5m £499.00 £598.80
CIG1432 9.7x4.3x3.65m £1099.00 £1318.80
CIG1640 12x4.9x4.3m £2599.00 £3118.80
150mm
PAD DIA.
PRO SANDER/POLISHERS
£ FROM ONLY
69 DOUBLE
EXC.VAT
.98
£83.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
CP150
Dual action combines
rotary & orbital motions
to produce an excellent
polished fi nish
CAR CREEPERS
• Oil resistant vinyl covered padded
backs & headrests • Swivel castors
for easy manoeuvrability
Model Description exc.VAT inc.VAT
CMC36 Car creeper £37.99 £45.59
CMC45 With adjustable headrest £54.99 £65.99
CMC60 Car creeper reclining
£59.98
seat & mechanics seat £49.98
TIGER
3000B
STARTS
VEHICLES
UP TO 6L
HEAVY DUTY
PETROL
POWER
WASHERS
Honda & Diesel engine
models in stock
CAN DRAW
OWN WATER
FROM ONLY
£ DOUBLE
279 EXC.VAT
.00
DOUBLE £334.80 FOOTER inc.VAT
5 MIN
APPLICATION!
£ FROM ONLY
249 DOUBLE exc.VAT
.00
DOUBLE £298.80 FOOTER inc.VAT
Pressure Engine
Model Bar/PSI HP exc.VAT inc.VAT
Tiger1800B 110/1595 3 £279.00 £334.80
Tiger2600B 180/2610 4 £379.00 £454.80
Tiger3000B 200/2900 6.5 £399.00 £478.80
PLS195B 182/2640 5.5 £499.00 £598.80
PLS220 230/3335 9 £679.00 £814.80
PLS265B 225/3263 13 £769.00 £922.80
PLS360 248/3600 13 £998.00 £1197.60
JUMP STARTS
FROM ONLY Provides essential home, garage
£ DOUBLE and roadside assistance Integral
96 DOUBLE EXC.VAT
.99
£116.39 FOOTER inc.VAT work light 910 includes air
compressor Long life battery
Starting Peak
Model Boost Amps exc.VAT inc.VAT
910 400 900 £96.99 £116.39
JS1100C 500 1100 £96.99 £116.39
BEST 4000 700 1500 £164.99 £197.99
SELLER JS12/24 1000 2000 £179.98 £215.98
MICRO
JUMP
STARTS
Start
BENCH
BUFFERS/
POLISHERS
FROM ONLY
£ DOUBLE
36 DOUBLE EXC.VAT
.99
£44.39 FOOTER inc.VAT
◆ WAS £63.59
inc.VAT
Peak
Boost exc.VAT inc.VAT
Model Boost
JSM180 180A 360A £36.99 £44.39
JSM200 ◆ 200A 400A £49.98 £59.98
JSM300 300A 500A £69.98 £83.98
JSM350 350A 500A £87.99 £105.59
JSM400 400A 800A £99.98 £119.98
For a brilliant shine
Model Dia. exc.VAT inc.VAT
CBB150 150mm £79.98 £95.98
CBB200 200mm £94.99 £113.99 ■ WAS
CHDB500 150mm £126.99 £152.39 £209.99
CBB250 ■ 250mm £169.95 £203.94 inc.VAT
PARTS
WASHERS
FROM ONLY
£ DOUBLE
59 DOUBLE EXC.VAT
.98
£71.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
BARNSLEY Pontefract Rd, Barnsley, S71 1EZ 01226 732297
B’HAM GREAT BARR 4 Birmingham Rd. 0121 358 7977
B’HAM HAY MILLS 1152 Coventry Rd, Hay Mills 0121 7713433
BOLTON 1 Thynne St. BL3 6BD 01204 365799
BRADFORD 105-107 Manningham Lane. BD1 3BN 01274 390962
BRIGHTON 123 Lewes Rd, BN2 3QB 01273 915999
BRISTOL 1-3 Church Rd, Lawrence Hill. BS5 9JJ 0117 935 1060
BURTON UPON TRENT 12a Lichfield St. DE14 3QZ 01283 564 708
CAMBRIDGE 181-183 Histon Road, Cambridge. CB4 3HL 01223 322675
CARDIFF 44-46 City Rd. CF24 3DN 029 2046 5424
CARLISLE 85 London Rd. CA1 2LG 01228 591666
CHELTENHAM 84 Fairview Road. GL52 2EH 01242 514 402
CHESTER 43-45 St. James Street. CH1 3EY 01244 311258
COLCHESTER 4 North Station Rd. CO1 1RE 01206 762831
COVENTRY Bishop St. CV1 1HT 024 7622 4227
CROYDON 423-427 Brighton Rd, Sth Croydon 020 8763 0640
DARLINGTON 214 Northgate. DL1 1RB 01325 380 841
DEAL (KENT) 182-186 High St. CT14 6BQ 01304 373 434
DERBY Derwent St. DE1 2ED 01332 290 931
DONCASTER Wheatley Hall Road 01302 245 999
DUNDEE 24-26 Trades Lane. DD1 3ET 01382 225 140
EDINBURGH 163-171 Piersfield Terrace 0131 659 5919
EASY TO USE WEBSITE
NOW
CP185
FROM ONLY
£ DOUBLE
37 DOUBLE EXC.VAT
.99
£45.59 FOOTER inc.VAT
PRICE CUT
£ DOUBLE
79 exc.VAT
.98
£95.98 DOUBLE inc.VAT
WAS £99.59 inc.VAT
PRICE CUT
£ DOUBLE
74 exc.VAT
.99
£89.99 DOUBLE inc.VAT
WAS £95.98 inc.VAT
Inc. hook & loop
backing pad and
wool polishing
bonnet
180mm
PAD DIA.
ALSO
MECHANICS
SEAT ONLY £45.59
CW1D
CW2D
Tank
Cap. Type exc.VAT inc.VAT
Model
CW2D 10Ltrs Bench £59.98 £71.98
CW1D 45Ltrs Floor £149.98 £179.98
CWM20 22.5Ltrs Floor £189.00 £226.80
CW40 75Ltrs Floor £229.98 £275.98
AXLE
STANDS
Ratchet
action for
quick height
adjustment
Sold in pairs
*Aluminium
Model
Max
Tons
Min/Max
Height exc.VAT inc.VAT
CAX2TFB 2 235-360mm £17.99 £21.59
CAX3TPB 3 325-490mm £31.99 £38.39
CAX-3TBC 3 300-430mm £29.98 £35.98
CAX-6TBC 6 400-615mm £48.99 £58.79
CAX3TAB* 3 295-395mm £59.98 £71.98
DRILL
PRESSES
Range of precision
bench & fl oor presses for
enthusiast, engineering
& industrial applications
FROM ONLY
£ DOUBLE
99 DOUBLE EXC.VAT
.95
£119.94 FOOTER inc.VAT
CDP102B
PRICE CUT
£ DOUBLE
112 exc.VAT
.99
£135.59 DOUBLE inc.VAT
WAS £137.99 inc.VAT
B = Bench mounted
F = Floor standing
FROM ONLY
£ DOUBLE
17 DOUBLE EXC.VAT
.99
£21.59 FOOTER inc.VAT
10 TONNE
BODY
REPAIR
KIT
FAST SNAP
CONNECTOR
model
Motor (W)
Speeds
WAS
exc.VAT inc.VAT inc.VAT
CDP5EB 350 / 5 £99.95 £119.94
CDP5RB 350 / 5 £99.95 £119.94
CDP102B 350 / 5 £115.95 £139.14
CDP152B 450 / 12 £209.00 £251.98 £250.80
CDP352F 550 / 16 £339.00 £406.80 £406.80
ELECTRIC
PRESSURE
WASHERS
Makes easy work
for washing
vehicles, patios,
stonework, etc.
JET7500, JET8500
& JET9500B include
hose reel 180 Bar
2610 psi
PRICE CUT
FROM ONLY
£
59 exc.VAT
.98
£71.98 DOUBLE inc.VAT
WAS £77.99 inc.VAT JET8500
Motor Max. exc. WAS
Model W Press. VAT inc.VAT inc.VAT
JS1850 1400 1523psi £59.98 £77.99 £71.98
JS1950 1600 2030psi £96.99 £119.98 £116.39
Jet7500 1600 2030psi £154.99 £191.98 £185.99
Jet8500 2100 2610psi £192.99 £239.98 £231.59
JET9500B 2400 2900psi £229.98 £287.98 £275.98
MECHANICS’ TOOL
CHEST & CABINETS
TOOL CHESTS
& CABINETS
MODULAR
STORAGE
PRO TOOL CHESTS
& CABINETS
REAR LOCKING
SECURITY BARS
1
CTC1300C
PRICE CUT
£ DOUBLE
154 exc.VAT
.99
£185.99 inc.VAT
WAS £191.98 inc.VAT
2
2
PRICE CUT
LARGE
NOW FROM
£
CAPACITY
279 exc.VAT
.00
LOWER
£334.80 inc.VAT
STORAGE
WAS £346.80 inc.VAT
WITH
LOCKABLE
DOORS
AVAILABLE IN
4 COLOURS
CTC1300C HEADER EXTRA WIDE 56"
VAT £
189 EXC.
.98 CHESTS/CABINETS
£227.98 inc.VAT IN STOCK
● WAS £239.98 inc.VAT
Model Description exc.VAT inc.VAT
CTC600C 6 Dr Chest £89.98 £107.98
WAS NOW
CTC900C 9 Dr Chest £89.98 £107.98 Model Description exc.VAT inc.VAT inc.VAT
CTC700C 7 Dr Cabinet £169.98 £203.98
CTC1300C ● 13 Dr Combination
Chest/Cabinet
Ideal for creating the
perfect fitted garage or
workshop – the ultimate
storage solution.
£189.98 £227.98
CHOOSE STAINLESS STEEL
OR WOODEN WORKTOPS
CORNER UNITS IN STOCK
✔ ALL UNITS ALSO AVAILABLE
SINGLY FOR CUSTOM BUILD
10
PACKAGES IN
THE RANGE
FREE 492
PAGE
OVER 21,000
CATALOGUE
PRODUCTS ONLINE!
OUT NOW!
EXETER 16 Trusham Rd. EX2 8QG 01392 256 744
GATESHEAD 50 Lobley Hill Rd. NE8 4YJ 0191 493 2520
GLASGOW 280 Gt Western Rd. G4 9EJ 0141 332 9231
GLOUCESTER 221A Barton St. GL1 4HY 01452 417 948
GRIMSBY ELLIS WAY, DN32 9BD 01472 354435
HULL 8-10 Holderness Rd. HU9 1EG 01482 223161
ILFORD 746-748 Eastern Ave. IG2 7HU 0208 518 4286
IPSWICH Unit 1 Ipswich Trade Centre, Commercial Road 01473 221253
LEEDS 227-229 Kirkstall Rd. LS4 2AS 0113 231 0400
LEICESTER 69 Melton Rd. LE4 6PN 0116 261 0688
LINCOLN Unit 5. The Pelham Centre. LN5 8HG 01522 543 036
LIVERPOOL 80-88 London Rd. L3 5NF 0151 709 4484
LONDON CATFORD 289/291 Southend Lane SE6 3RS 0208 695 5684
LONDON 6 Kendal Parade, Edmonton N18 020 8803 0861
LONDON 503-507 Lea Bridge Rd. Leyton, E10 020 8558 8284
LUTON Unit 1, 326 Dunstable Rd, Luton LU4 8JS 01582 728 063
MAIDSTONE 57 Upper Stone St. ME15 6HE 01622 769 572
MANCHESTER ALTRINCHAM 71 Manchester Rd. Altrincham 0161 9412 666
MANCHESTER CENTRAL 209 Bury New Road M8 8DU 0161 241 1851
MANCHESTER OPENSHAW Unit 5, Tower Mill, Ashton Old Rd 0161 223 8376
MANSFIELD 169 Chesterfield Rd. South 01623 622160
MIDDLESBROUGH Mandale Triangle, Thornaby 01642 677881
For 15,000
• IN-STORE
hard to find
• ONLINE
items vist the
section on:
• PHONE
machinemart.co.uk 0844 880 1265
VISIT YOUR LOCAL SUPERSTORE Open Mon-Fri 8.30-6.00, Sat 8.30-5.30, Sun 10.00-4.00
NORWICH 282a Heigham St. NR2 4LZ 01603 766402
NORTHAMPTON Beckett Retail Park, St James’ Mill Rd 01604 267840
NOTTINGHAM 211 Lower Parliament St. 0115 956 1811
PETERBOROUGH 417 Lincoln Rd. Millfield 01733 311770
PLYMOUTH 58-64 Embankment Rd. PL4 9HY 01752 254050
POOLE 137-139 Bournemouth Rd. Parkstone 01202 717913
PORTSMOUTH 277-283 Copnor Rd. Copnor 023 9265 4777
PRESTON 53 Blackpool Rd. PR2 6BU 01772 703263
SHEFFIELD 453 London Rd. Heeley. S2 4HJ 0114 258 0831
SIDCUP 13 Blackfen Parade, Blackfen Rd 0208 3042069
SOUTHAMPTON 516-518 Portswood Rd. 023 8055 7788
SOUTHEND 1139-1141 London Rd. Leigh on Sea 01702 483 742
STOKE-ON-TRENT 382-396 Waterloo Rd. Hanley 01782 287321
SUNDERLAND 13-15 Ryhope Rd. Grangetown 0191 510 8773
SWANSEA 7 Samlet Rd. Llansamlet. SA7 9AG 01792 792969
SWINDON 21 Victoria Rd. SN1 3AW 01793 491717
TWICKENHAM 83-85 Heath Rd.TW1 4AW 020 8892 9117
WARRINGTON Unit 3, Hawley’s Trade Pk. 01925 630 937
WIGAN 2 Harrison Street, WN5 9AU 01942 323 785
WOLVERHAMPTON Parkfield Rd. Bilston 01902 494186
WORCESTER 48a Upper Tything. WR1 1JZ 01905 723451
CBB203C 3 Dr step up £86.99 £107.98 £104.39
1 CBB209C 9 Dr Chest £154.99 £191.98 £185.99
2 CBB217C 7 Dr Cabinet £279.00 £346.80 £334.80
FROM ONLY
£ DOUBLE
1198 EXC.VAT
.00
£1437.60 DOUBLE FOOTER inc.VAT
5 EASY WAYS
TO BUY...
SUPERSTORES
SUPERSTORES NATIONWIDE
ONLINE
www.machinemart.co.uk
TELESALES
0115 956 5555
CLICK & COLLECT
OVER 10,500 LOCATIONS
CALL & COLLECT
AT STORES TODAY
Calls to the catalogue request number above (0844 880 1265) cost 7p per minute plus your telephone company’s network access charge. For security reasons, calls may be monitored. All prices correct
at time of going to press. We reserve the right to change products and prices at any time. Check online for latest prices. All offers subject to availability, E&OE. * Terms & conditions apply see machinemart.co.uk/finance for more details
23 16:58
34637 Machine (71) Mart CAR2 DPS.indd DPS (full) 2 Long A.indd 2 23/11/2023 25/01/2024 16:58
16:14

NEWS
DYNOMEC
DY2300:
Revolutionizing
wheel nut removal
with British ingenuity
In the realm of automotive maintenance, where precision and
innovation intersect, Dynomec has long been a distinguished
name synonymous with reliability.
With a legacy spanning over a quarter-century, Dynomec has
continually evolved, culminating in the unveiling of their
latest triumph: the DY2300 locking wheel nut remover
tool. Proudly made in the UK and fortified by multiple patents, the
DY2300 is a testament to British engineering prowess, poised to
revolutionize wheel nut removal across the automotive landscape.
A Heritage of Excellence
Dynomec’s journey began with the inception of the DY1000, the
original locking wheel nut remover tool. Conceived more than
two decades ago, this tool set the gold standard for reliability and
effectiveness. Today, the DY1000 remains a symbol of Dynomec’s
commitment to quality, having earned the trust of mechanics,
technicians, and automotive enthusiasts worldwide.
The Evolution: DY2300
As technology advances and industry standards evolve, so does
Dynomec. The unveiling of the DY2300 represents a pivotal moment
in the brand’s history—a leap forward in innovation, design, and
performance. What sets the DY2300 apart is not just its cuttingedge
features but the unwavering dedication to maintaining the
brand’s British heritage.
Patented Ingenuity
What sets the DY2300 apart is not just its country of origin, but
the innovative technologies protected by its multiple patents. This
locking wheel nut remover tool is a unique blend of cutting-edge
engineering and patented solutions, ensuring that users have access
to a tool that stands unrivalled in the market. The patent not only
underscores the tool’s uniqueness but also highlights Dynomec’s
commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in
automotive maintenance.
Setting the standard-In house
Dynomec takes pride in its commitment to quality and precision by
manufacturing everything in-house. With a dedication to maintaining
control over every aspect of the production process, Dynomec’s
state-of-the-art facilities house the entire manufacturing journey
from conception to completion. By keeping the entire process inhouse,
Dynomec ensures meticulous attention to detail and rigorous
quality control at every stage. This approach not only allows for
efficient communication between design and manufacturing teams
but also guarantees that each product bearing the Dynomec name
reflects the highest standards of craftsmanship and innovation.
In-house manufacturing is not just a practice for Dynomec; it’s a
testament to their unwavering dedication to delivering excellence in
every tool they create.
Peak Drive C Blade Range: Conquering Challenges
In its pursuit of excellence, Dynomec introduces the Peak Drive C
Blade Range—a revolutionary feature within the DY2300. This range
is specifically designed to tackle the Mcgard-style wheel nuts, but
20 THE GARAGE
20,21, News Dynomec.indd 1 25/01/2024 15:54

excelling particularly against the aggressive patterns and
large track widths. The Peak Drive C Blade Range ensures
that, regardless of the complexity of the wheel security
mechanism, the DY2300 stands ready to conquer the
challenge.
Maximum rigidity
The newly designed and patented impact driver, where
rigidity takes centre stage. This innovative tool is used as a
single assembly, featuring fewer joints to maximize rigidity
and adaptors that firmly screw in place. This streamlined
construction not only enhances the tool’s overall durability
but also instils user confidence, resulting in a more successful
and efficient operation. Welcome to a new era of impact
drivers, where rigidity is the key to unparalleled performance.
Meeting the Needs of the Industry
As automotive technologies evolve, wheel security
mechanisms become more intricate. The DY2300, with its
patented design and multiple configuration options not
only offer a price point that suits any budget but, positions
itself at the forefront of addressing these needs. The tool’s
ability to adapt to various wheel nut styles and configurations
ensures that it remains an indispensable asset for
professionals navigating the dynamic landscape of automotive
maintenance.
The Future of Wheel Nut Removal
In conclusion, the DY2300 is more than a tool; it’s a symbol
of Dynomec’s commitment to excellence and continuous
improvement. As it takes its place in the toolkit of mechanics
and enthusiasts alike, the DY2300 stands as a testament to
the enduring spirit of British engineering, forever changing the
way we approach wheel nut removal in the automotive world.
■ Universal Oil Fired Heaters
■ Oil and gas fired
cabinet heaters
■ Suspended oil and gas
fired unit heaters
■ Portable and mobile
heaters
■ Electric heaters
THERMOBILE offers probably the most
complete selection of space heaters
available to the UK Motor Trade. The
full range of heaters from THERMOBILE
now comprises over 300 models
varying in heat output from 3Kw up to
450Kw (10,000 to 1,500,000 BTU/HR).
For more information call us TODAY!
THERMOBILE UK LIMITED 12 Buckingham Close, Bermuda Industrial Estate, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV10 7JT UK
SALES CONTACTS: Andy Wallis 07850 988382 andy@thermobile.co.uk
John Hall 07775 635527 john@thermobile.co.uk
Main office: 02476 357960 Website: www.thermobile.co.uk
THE GARAGE 21
20,21, News Dynomec.indd 2 25/01/2024 15:54

NEWS
Only a half of
UK motorists
conduct
recommended
monthly check
of tyre pressures
Just over a half of UK motorists conduct the recommended
check of tyre pressures at least once per month, according
to a new survey commissioned by Apollo Tyres. Of the 1,000
motorists polled, 15% say they check their tyre pressures weekly,
11% say once per fortnight, and 29% once per month.
Apollo Tyres, which manufactures Vredestein passenger car
tyres, advises drivers to check their tyre pressures at least once per
month, but many do so less frequently: 19% say they check once
per quarter, 9% once every six months and 3% say they complete a
check just once per year. 8% never check their tyre pressures.
Tyre under-inflation reduces vehicle stability, accelerates tyre
wear and increases fuel consumption. If the tyre pressure is very
low the tyre can overheat, causing irreparable damage. Meanwhile,
excess tyre pressures reduce driving comfort and safety because
the portion of the tyre in contact with the road surface will be
smaller.
“Tyre pressures should ideally be checked every 14 days, and as a
minimum at least once a month and always before a long journey,”
advises Yves Pouliquen, Group Head of Sales and Marketing at Apollo
Tyres. “Drivers should also periodically check the pressure of the
spare tyre so it can be relied upon in the event of an emergency,
noting that these tyres often need to operate at a higher pressure.”
Apollo Tyres advises that pressures should only be checked when
the tyres are cold (at least two hours after the most recent journey),
and drivers should set the pressure to the level recommended by
the car manufacturer.
“If you do not have the instruction manual to hand, you can
typically find the recommended tyre pressures on the B-pillar
beside the driver or inside of the tank filler flap,” says Pouliquen.
“It’s important to note that pressures will often be different from
front to rear, to account for the vehicle’s fixed distribution of weight
and to allow for any temporary increase in load – for example when
carrying multiple passengers or luggage.”
Checking for tread wear and tyre damage
Tyre and vehicle manufacturers also recommend that owners
conduct regular checks of tread depth, to ensure grip and traction
is maintained. However, in the Apollo Tyres survey, a significant 15%
say they never conduct such checks. Among those that do assess
tread depth, the frequencies cited most often are once per month
(22%) and once per quarter ( 17%).
A significant majority (79%) say they check the sidewall and tread
of their tyres for damage, although the frequency of these checks
varies considerably. Monthly checks are the most common (21%),
followed by quarterly checks (16%). 15% say they only assess sidewall
● 15% say they check their vehicle tyre pressures
at least once per week, 11% once per fortnight,
and 29% once per month
● Many check less frequently than recommended:
19% once per quarter, 9% once every six months
● 8% say they never check their tyre pressures
● Low tyre pressure can significantly reduce fuel
efficiency and handling effectiveness
● 15% never check if the tread depth is within
legal limits
● Survey commissioned by Apollo Tyres, which
manufactures Vredestein passenger car tyres
and tread for damage once per year or less, while 16% never carry
out such checks.
While the legal minimum tread depth in Europe is 1.6mm, Apollo
Tyres advises motorists to replace tyres when the tread depth
falls to 2mm. The tread main grooves on a tyre have a Tread Wear
Indicator (TWI); when the tread is worn down to these indicators,
the tyre has reached the minimum legal level.
For winter tyres, weather considerations mean that the wear limit
is set at 4mm. Winter tyres with less than 4mm tread depth cease,
in principle, to be true winter tyres and in some countries this is laid
down by law. In addition to the TWI, winter tyres also have a Winter
Wear Indicator (WWI), with a height of 4mm indicating the effective
limit for operation in winter conditions.
Pouliquen adds: “Our Vredestein passenger car tyres are put
through rigorous testing processes across a multitude of conditions
and scenarios, but they cannot operate effectively if the pressure
falls outside recommended levels. There is clearly a lack of
understanding among motorists about what kind of checks should
be conducted, and with what regularity. The onus is upon the
tyre industry as a whole – manufacturers, retailers and fitters – to
provide additional ongoing guidance and support to consumers.”
For further guidance on checking tyre pressures, consumers can
visit the Vredestein website: https://www.vredestein.co.uk/
content-hub/tyre-guide/car-suv-van/the-correct-tyre-pressure/
22 THE GARAGE
22,23, News Apollo, Hikoki, Clarkes.indd 1 25/01/2024 15:55

Awesome power, maximum flexibility
HiKOKI
announces
FREE Multi
Volt Battery
Pack offer
HiKOKI Power Tools has announced an
exciting free Multi Volt battery pack offer
to its customers. From January 1st to
March 31st, 2024, customers who spend
£300 including VAT or more on any HiKOKI
cordless tools from an approved UK/ROI
HiKOKI seller or dealer, can grab a cuttingedge
BSL18A36 MV Battery Pack for free,
subject to terms and conditions.
HiKOKI’s Multi Volt batteries are at
the forefront of the cordless power tool
revolution and offer unparalleled flexibility
and convenience. With the ability to
intelligently switch between 36V and 18V,
these batteries provide the high power
needed for heavy-duty tasks and can be
charged in just 32 minutes.
Compatible with all cordless HiKOKI
Power Tools, the BSL18A36 MV Battery
Pack ensures that professionals always
have the right amount of power for the job
at hand, thereby reducing downtime and
increasing productivity. Its rapid charging
time and long-lasting power make it an
essential addition to any toolkit.
All qualifying customers have to do is
complete the redemption form on the
HiKOKI Power Tools website and the
BSL18A36 MV Battery Pack will soon be
theirs. For full terms and conditions and for
more details on how to claim visit
www.hikoki-powertools.co.uk/
redemption
New Clarke CHD900
Hammer Drill (230V)
This Clarke CHD900 Hammer Drill
is an excellent value, high-performance
hammer drill.
It has a 900W motor that makes it ideal for
fast drilling of masonry, wood and steel. It
offers 0-3000rpm variable speed with reverse
action and has maximum drilling capacities
(Diameter) of 25mm in wood, 12mm in steel
and 12mm in masonry.
The CHD900 features an anti-slip grip for
safe comfortable use, as well as a lock-on
switch for continuous operation.
This unit also includes a side handle with
depth stop gauge. A chuck key is also included.
The Clarke CHD900 is available now, in-store
and online, for just £35.98 inc VAT.
Technical
specification
Chuck Type
Volts
Watts
Chuck size
Hammer Action
Reverse
Use with Core Bits
Keyed
230 V
900 W
13 mm
Yes
Yes
No
www.machinemart.co.uk/p/chd900-900w-hammer-drill-230v/
THE GARAGE 23
22,23, News Apollo, Hikoki, Clarkes.indd 2 25/01/2024 15:56

NEWS
Thinkcar
range is now
available from
ToolTruck
Thinkcar’s innovative range aims to combine high levels of
diagnostics functionality with attractive price points, enhanced
by a pioneering remote programming solution that is underpinned
by UK-based garage experts.
ToolTruck, part of ISN Europe, already has a
growing UK network of independent mobile
resellers visiting independent garages
nationwide on a daily basis. Through ISN
Europe, these ToolTruck vans gain access to
a range of exclusive brands and products, all
sourced from leading global manufacturers.
“We’re excited to be working with
ToolTruck,” said Alex Gillbanks, Managing
Director of Impact Diagnostics, the specialist
supplier behind Thinkcar UK. “Customers tell
us Thinkcar products offer exceptional value
for money to garages, whilst the breadth of
the range means there’s something to fit all
requirements.
“This collaboration simply enables us to
reach more independent garages more
quickly - through a van sales network
that, like us, makes quality, innovation and
customer service the centre of its ethos.”
Thinkcar anticipates particularly strong
levels of interest on ‘entry level’ items
that do not require large financial outlay.
Examples include the Thinktool Lite at under
£500 plus VAT and the Euro Master Lite at
under £900 plus VAT.
“We’re finding both of these suit a really
wide range of garages,” said Alex. “They can
be used either as a primary diagnostics tool,
or as a back-up within larger workshops.”
Thinkcar say these products are also both
ideal for van sales, as the tools are often
purchased by the technicians themselves,
as part of their own ‘tool kit’ rather than as
capital equipment for the workshop.
The Thinkcar Euro Master Lite is a
scalable tablet which allows modules like
an oscilloscope or ADAS calibration to be
added to enhance core OE diagnosis and
coding capabilities. The Thinktool Lite is a
compact 6-inch OE-level tool that packs in
powerful diagnostics capabilities such as
reading and clearing fault codes, reading
live data, actuation testing, and ECU coding.
For more information, please speak to your
local ToolTruck van or view the full range at
https://www.thinkcar.uk/
24 THE GARAGE
24,25 News ToolTruck, Denso, GSF.indd 1 25/01/2024 15:56

DENSO
unveils the secrets of
wiper blade replacement
GSF CAR PARTS
HIGHLIGHTS BATTERY
IMPORTANCE
IN COLD WEATHER SNAP
As a leading original equipment (OE) wiper blade manufacturer,
DENSO is always finding new ways to inform, educate and provide
best practice principles when it comes to their replacement.
Now, in a series of ‘how to’ videos, the company has once more
underscored its commitment to clarity and convenience.
Although wiper blades are one of the most important safety
features fitted to vehicles, drivers rarely give them a second
thought, despite the fact that efficient windscreen wiping
and visibility are vital all year round. Therefore, it’s important for
wiper blades to be replaced as soon as their performance begins
to drop, but notwithstanding, at least once a year.
In addition to making it straightforward to identify and
select the correct replacement, DENSO has now gone several
steps further and, as well as providing written instructions
with supporting diagrams on its product packaging, it has now
produced a series of videos that clearly demonstrate the fitting
process, to make their replacement a quick and easy job.
Reflecting the range of wipers the company offers, DENSO
has produced a specific video for its three primary designs –
Standard, Flat and Hybrid – which not only provides motorists
with the widest choice of options in terms of their blade
preference, but also ensures that whatever style they choose,
they can be fitted correctly.
After identifying the wiper blade to wiper arm fixing system, the
videos explain where the wiper arms need to be positioned to
enable the safe removal of the existing blade. They also provide
a really useful tip, often overlooked during the replacement
process, which is to thoroughly clean the windscreen before the
old blades are removed and new ones fitted, in order to prevent
scratches and ensure the proper seating of the new blades.
Key to correct replacement is understanding how the existing
blades are attached, which is the next step in the video and
without this visual explanation, is often difficult to imagine.
Another valuable tip included at this stage is to check the
condition of the arm where the blade attaches, as corrosion here
could present a safety issue and would require advice from a
professional technician.
Continued on page 10
Finally, the new blade fitting process is shown, including the
all-important locking position, and once completed, a final
system check is carried out, by activating the windscreen washer
function, which will confirm that the blades have been replaced
successfully.
These new videos are available alongside a wide variety of useful
wiper blade advice and information, on the
DENSO Aftermarket website at: www.denso-am.eu/
products/wiper-blades
With temperatures below freezing and snow falling,
national motor factor GSF Car Parts is encouraging
garages and road users to stay on top of car battery
health.
Research from battery manufacturer GS Yuasa reports that 37%
of batteries require attention on UK roads*. Batteries are of the
first vehicle components to suffer in cold weather, so a battery
testing kit can be one of the best assets in a garage’s toolbox to
help keep drivers on the road.
Leading motor factor GSF Car Parts has a nationwide network
of 180 branches, supplying independent garages with parts,
specialist training, garage equipment and tools such as GS
Yuasa’s ‘Always Check the Battery’ kit, which allows technicians
to evaluate the battery health in less than a minute and obtain
a substantial revenue stream as a result through charging or
replacing a faulty battery.
GSF Car Parts Product Director Carl Boland said: “Battery
condition can often be overlooked because there may be no
obvious warning signs to a defective or discharged battery, but
it’s crucial to keep on top of it to avoid unexpected problems for
road users.
“For an independent garage, regular testing of battery
conditions is a great way to increase revenue and customer
satisfaction in no time at all, especially since a garage that
performs these routine checks could save a driver from being
left stranded with a flat battery.”
GSF Car Parts offers a comprehensive range of batteries to
suit all consumer needs, stocking DriveTec and GS Yuasa for
most of the UK car parc with excellent availability across all 180
branches and GSF’s retail website gsfcarparts.com.
GSF Car Parts Sales and Operations Director Paul Wright
added: “Sustained sub-zero temperatures will see the
combination of planned service bookings and unplanned work
significantly increase for garages. That’s why we’re here to give
garages the tools and products they need to avoid any nasty
surprises and keep their customers on the road.”
Even though cold weather may be the turning point for
common battery issues, warm weather can often be the trigger
for the degradation process. Many drivers believe that cold
weather harms a battery, but it’s actually heat which causes the
failure in the first place.
Optimal battery temperature is 20c, so when summer
temperatures rise to over 30c, this accelerates battery ageing.
The effects can go unnoticed in the warmer months, but when
an engine needs more energy to start in winter, problems arise.
THE GARAGE 25
24,25 News ToolTruck, Denso, GSF.indd 2 25/01/2024 15:57

TRAININGANDAPPRENTICESHIPS
IMI report puts the spotlight on
short-term drivers for skills change
Changing automotive landscape demands technical skill,
increased diversity and environmentally conscious practices
A
new report from the Institute of the
Motor Industry (IMI) – Driving Auto
Forwards - has revealed the top
ten short-term drivers for skills in the UK
automotive sector and their implications
for the workforce. The IMI offers strategic
recommendations and actions for the UK
automotive sector in the report to help
build a fully-skilled workforce and a series
of Insight reports will be published in the
coming months that take a deeper dive
into the key themes and offer detailed
opinion and analysis.
Steve Nash, CEO of the IMI believes
that by proactively engaging with these
key drivers, the sector can position itself
for sustained growth and success: “As
the industry evolves, identifying and
addressing the key drivers shaping the
future skills landscape is crucial. The
challenges facing the sector today vary
greatly, reflecting the fast-moving and
dynamic nature of automotive today. If
businesses in our sector are to tackle
these challenges effectively they need
strategies in place now that can support
change and growth.”
Ten Drivers for Skills Change:
1. The ongoing challenge filling vacancies
– the highest vacancy rate in 21 years,
increasing while vacancies in other
sectors decrease, exacerbated by an
aging workforce and retirements, salary
dissatisfaction and post-COVID jobhopping.
2. Building a technically skilled and
futureproof workforce – increasing
demand for electric vehicles and
adoption of Advanced Driver Assistance
Systems requires specific training, yet
the gap between the number of qualified
technicians and those required continues
to grow.
3. Growth in manufacturing – the surge in
UK car production in the past decade and
growing emphasis on sustainable mobility
solutions has increased job opportunities,
especially in technical roles such as
26 THE GARAGE
26,31, Training All.indd 1 25/01/2024 15:58

TRAININGANDAPPRENTICESHIPS
programmers, software developers and
architects.
4. Lack of diversity in the workforce – low
representation of women and non-white
British employees in UK automotive retail
limits the potential of the industry, despite
clear evidence that diversity fosters
innovation, creativity, problem-solving and
effective decision-making.
5. Increasing emphasis on customer
service and soft skills in retail – customers
increasingly expect personalised and
seamless interactions, excellent service
and access to digital solutions. Meeting
that need requires specific skills and
technology.
6. Green initiatives and sustainability
– increasing adoption of eco-friendly
practices as well as the growing electric
vehicle parc requires a shift in focus
to lightweight materials, sustainable
manufacturing, remanufacturing, recycling,
research and development, sustainable
supply chain management, and public
awareness and education.
7. Data analytics and Telematics –
increasing integration of technology in
vehicles require professionals with the
skills to interpret and analyse vehicle
performance data, leading to an increase in
demand for data-related skills.
8. The agency model – manufacturers’
adoption of the agency model for selling
vehicles direct to consumers, bypassing
retailers, will impact the jobs, roles and
skills required in the sector prompting a
growing need for flexibility and the ability to
work collaboratively with external agencies.
9. Online Sales and Digital Marketing –
e-commerce has been growing for many
years, and the automotive sector is seeing
the impact. Sales professionals need digital
sales and online marketing skills as well
as knowledge of customer relationship
management (CRM) tools.
10. The long road to post-COVID
recovery – the pandemic’s impact
has led to falling new car sales and an
aging car parc, resulting in a growing
need for professionals skilled in vehicle
refurbishment as well as parts and
component manufacturing.
“The automotive sector is undergoing
significant change, and our workforce,
processes and technology must adapt
to meet new and ever-changing needs”,
added Steve Nash.
“Customer demand for more
technologically advanced vehicles and
seamless digital experiences, as well as
more sustainable and environmentally
responsible materials and practices has
brought about an urgent need for new
skills within the automotive workforce. To
meet this need, businesses must invest in
upskilling their employees, offering access
to training programmes that address the
specific needs arising from the shifting
vehicle ownership patterns and fostering a
culture of ongoing learning.
“Upskilling and expanding the scope
of existing roles will help the motor
industry serve customers as the landscape
continues to shift and evolve, helping it
to remain successful, profitable and a
positive contributor to the UK economy in
2024 and beyond.”
Training from
Nissens
Automotive
On a mission to support the independent sector to be
profitable at all levels, Nissens Automotive (Nissens)
offers education in various forms, from live onsite
sessions, through online self-learning courses, to
technical marketing materials in both print and digital
formats. This knowledge is served in 15 languages and
delivered by 25 dedicated technical trainers, and is
available worldwide.
Nissens has further expanded its Training Concept,
an educational solution for automotive professionals
in the field of air conditioning, engine cooling,
efficiency, and emissions, to leverage their technical
skills, with a series of free live webinars conducted
by their product specialists. In addition to receiving a
huge amount of knowledge, participants may engage
in Q&A sessions and share their experience. Nissens
also offers free online training through its portal at:
ntc.nissens.com
Join the free webinars on the Nissens Facebook
page or watch the recordings of past events:
www.facebook.com/nissensautomotive
Recordings will be made available on Facebook or
on the Nissens Experts portal – an internet platform
with a library of more than 100 technical assets,
including technical stories, tips, bulletins, and tools
dedicated to technicians.
THE GARAGE 27
28
26,31, Training All.indd 2 25/01/2024 15:59

TRAININGANDAPPRENTICESHIPS
Straightset opens innovative
Wheel Alignment Training Studio
l New training studio now open in Worksop, Nottinghamshire
l Centrally located with high quality equipment and demonstrator units
Straightset, a leading independent UK garage equipment
company, is pleased to announce the opening of a new
3,000 sq. ft training studio at its headquarters in Worksop.
The studio will offer a dedicated training space where
prospects, customers, distributors and internal staff can
gain hands-on experience some of the very latest workshop
equipment.
Straightset, which is renowned for its quality garage equipment
and exceptional aftercare, continues to invest in its people
and products. The training studio allows customers to trial and
learn about equipment and its suitability, ensuring Straightset
maintains its high levels of customer service, choice and
flexibility. With a strong ethos on training and Health and Safety
being a top priority for Straightset. The training studio provides
a unique central location for internal development and training
programmes for its engineers and head office staff.
As leaders in wheel alignment and the owners of the well
known Supertracker brand, Straightset can now showcase and
demonstrate the full suite of wheel alignment systems including:
l Latest STR1 green laser system from Supertracker providing an
opprountiy to see the clarity and precision benefits for
yourself.
l The six- and eight-sensor CCD wheel alignment systems from
Supertracker – STR130 and STR420 with hang-on system and
three-point clamp options.
l The HPA-Faip C 880 iNEXT a quick and reliable 3D wheel aligner
with two camera reading system
l The 3D wheel alignment system; Q.Lign technology from
Beissbarth – the ultra-fast, compact, and connected 3D wheel
alignment solution.
l The latest innovation from Beissbarth; the Q.Lign T-Series – a
wall-mounted 3D system with large vertical field of vision for
fast, efficient and reliable wheel alignment checks.
7
28 THE GARAGE
26,31, Training All.indd 3 25/01/2024 15:59

TRAININGANDAPPRENTICESHIPS
● The light and airy studio space also makes available; a tyre
changer, wheel balancer, air compressor, scissor lift and a EV
2-Post lift.
It will also feature a dedicated classroom area for interactive,
theory based learning and computer system showcasing.
Customers and engineers will also have the opportunity to
meet with the newly appointed Wheel Alignment Specialist, Nick
Lauff. An expert on everything to do with wheel alignment Nick
will be available to help with demonstrations, sales enquiries,
service-related questions and information, including liaising
directly with the Beissbarth team in Munich.
Andrew Bates, Sales Director at Straightset, said: “We are
delighted to announce the launch of our new Wheel Alignment
Training Studio here at Worksop, which will demonstrate and
provide expert training to all. The addition of this exclusive
service builds on our commitment to offering our clients the
best possible customer service and combined with our ongoing
internal development programme to support Straightset’s
national fleet of engineers, we will be able to continue to deliver
the most comprehensive support service in the UK”.
EV transition to move
up the gears in 2024,
says LKQ UK Chief
The chief executive of LKQ UK & Ireland Kevan Wooden, has
revealed his predictions for the independent aftermarket in 2024,
with the electric vehicle (EV) transition set to move up the gears
over the next year.
The newly appointed chief executive expects more
independent garages to invest in their equipment and
skills to service EVs. Though the government has moved
the end date for the ban of ICE engines to 2035, vehicle
manufacturers target for EV sales at 22% has not changed
in 2024. He warned that component manufacturers, motor
factors and independent garages and chains must all increase
their focus on EV to be able to support an ever-growing part of
the car parc.
The motor factor’s training arm LKQ Academy will boost its
training provision in 2024 to cater for increased demand for EV
skills, as well as hybrid engines.
As the EV transition accelerates, Wooden expects to see
greater ingenuity from garages in fixing and maintaining
batteries, which would otherwise be fully replaced at a high
cost to customers and the environment.
Wooden also sees motor factors joining forces to act as
champions of independent garages and bodyshops. Motor
factors will help the industry to address market and legislative
challenges such as enforcing the Motor Vehicle Block
Exemption Order (MVBEO) to its fullest extent, and to support
a replica scheme to the EU’s SERMI, which will provide criminal
background checks on technicians to in effect vet them for
work on vehicle security systems.
From its perspective, Wooden sees LKQ UK & Ireland further
investing in its capabilities to provide the training, expertise
and products the aftermarket needs to become more
environmentally and financially sustainable.
The ongoing modernisation of the independent sector is a
topic Wooden has long-promoted as a means of tackling the
industry skills crisis and boosting its competitiveness
Wooden was appointed chief executive at the leading motor
factor last month, with incumbent Andy Hamilton becoming
senior vice president of LKQ and president and executive
managing director of LKQ Europe.
Kevan Wooden, CEO at LKQ UK & Ireland said: “The EV
transition will continue to influence motor factors’ and
independent garages’ direction of travel in 2024. Simply put,
those that fail to prepare risk falling behind in the market, with
plug-in vehicles representing a major, growing share of all new
and used car sales.
“The transition to EVs represents a multifaceted challenge,
from upskilling thousands of technicians UK-wide – to finding
innovative solutions for fixing and maintaining these vehicles.
We’ll continue to rise to this challenge and to support
independent garages, with 2024 representing a pivotal year for
progress - despite the ICE ban delay to 2035.”
For more information visit:
https://corporate.eurocarparts.com/
THE GARAGE 29
30
26,31, Training All.indd 4 25/01/2024 16:00

TRAININGANDAPPRENTICESHIPS
Win EV work from dealers,
urges Cleevely EV
Matt Cleevely, Founder and CEO of Cleevely Group, is calling on fellow
independent garage owners to seize the opportunities presented by the
fast-growing electric vehicle (EV) market.
It comes as new data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers
and Traders (SMMT) shows Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)
registrations increased by 17.8 per cent in 2023 to achieve a 16.5
per cent market share. Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) recorded
significant growth last year too, up 27.1 per cent to reach a 12.6 per
cent share of the market. Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs),
meanwhile, enjoyed a 39.3 per cent increase in registrations to
account for 7.4 per cent of the market.
“Now’s the time for the independent sector to step-up,
showcase their expertise, and position themselves as the go-to
destination for EV services,” said Matt Cleevely. “The demand for
reliable EV servicing and repairs is still on the rise, so there’s a
unique opportunity for independent garages to match and even
exceed the service levels offered by the franchise dealer network.”
SMMT figures show that BEV uptake has risen almost 20-fold in
the last five years. EV service and repair work makes up 40 per cent
of all jobs that pass through Cleevely Group workshops and data
analysis show EVs yield higher average invoice values, better profit
margins and improved customer retention.
“We’re soaking up a lot of work from all over the country,”
said Matt. “The dealerships are slow-moving when it comes to EV
so there’s an open goal for independents to offer an attractive
alternative.”
Cleevely EV technicians are IMI Level Four qualified and capable
of advanced high voltage repairs. However, much of the EV work
coming in is for regular servicing and maintenance of steering and
suspension, brakes and tyres – jobs independent workshops are
already routinely undertaking on Internal Combustion Engine (ICE)
vehicles.
“The transition over to EV needn’t be as big as some make out,”
said Matt. “We’ll be hosting a number of EV/hybrid training courses
for the trade this year covering everything from how to run an EV
workshop to the technician skills needed to effectively service,
maintain, and diagnose EV and hybrid charging systems.”
Dates for Cleevely Group training courses are expected to be
announced in the coming weeks. Garages are advised to stay
updated by following Cleevely EV on Facebook: https://www.
facebook.com/cleevelyev.
9
30 THE GARAGE
26,31, Training All.indd 5 25/01/2024 16:00

TRAININGANDAPPRENTICESHIPS
Future-proofing the workforce:
WHY TRAINING IS KEY
The shift towards electric vehicles,
hydrogen fuel cell technology,
and advanced driver-assistance
systems (ADAS) is creating new
opportunities and challenges for
everyone within the automotive
industry. For those involved in
repairing and maintaining these
vehicles, the uncertainties
surrounding what technology will
be coming down the line next and,
frankly, a fear of the unknown is
amplifying the skills deficit.
Developing the skill set of our current
workforce is vital if we are to
bridge the talent gap and ensure
new vehicles are safely and correctly
maintained. New courses covering emerging
technologies are being developed all
the time to support this, and vehicle
technicians must be aware of these and
factor them into their annual plans to
ensure they remain compliant and skilled.
Not doing so could have a detrimental
impact on a garage business, particularly
as, over the next few years, customers will
increasingly turn to their local garages for
repair and maintenance work with their
new, alternative-fuelled, software-defined
cars.
This is demonstrated by the doubling of
second-hand EV sales in quarter 3 of 2023.
These vehicles will inevitably roll into local
garages and workshops for repairs.
ADAS is another area that is rapidly
growing in popularity. By 2030, 44% of
cars on UK roads will be equipped with
ADAS technology to enhance safety and
convenience. The maintenance and
calibration of ADAS is highly complex and
currently reflects a massive skills shortage
which is only set to intensify. According to
the IMI, to meet 2030 expectations, a total
of 106,000 qualified technicians will be
required.
For garage owners, having ADAS-trained
vehicle technicians will enable them to
exploit a new revenue stream. As the
number of vehicles fitted with advanced
driver-assistance systems on the road
increases, it will also help them offer a
By Alistair McCrindle,
Head of Operations, Autotech Training
greater service to customers. A LKQ Euro
Car Parts survey revealed that 29% of
garages turn away work because they
don’t have the skills to service modern
vehicles. Along with EVs, technology such
as ADAS is increasingly filtering through the
aftermarket for repairs so garage owners
must make ADAS training a priority.
A key benefit of ADAS training is
understanding the difference between the
various ADAS technologies, and training will
help a vehicle technician understand the
advantages and disadvantages of each. It
will empower them to identify and correctly
interpret information relating to a specific
vehicle and its ADAS features. This will
enable them to identify which method of
calibration is required.
The functions of ADAS features rely on
sensors that continuously monitor the
environment around the vehicle. These
sensors are located throughout a car and
a vehicle technician needs to learn how
to recalibrate these sensors and reinstate
them safely.
In 2021, the Thatcham Research
Insurance Industry Requirements (IIR)
came into effect, ensuring the safe repair
of vehicles equipped with Advanced
Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). As
car manufacturers increasingly fit ADAS
features into new models, this directive
provides clarity to garages and workshops
servicing these vehicles.
Ultimately, it’s all about safety and
calibration and training will help a vehicle
technician identify and correctly interpret
which method of sensor calibration is
required.
Offering the most up-to-date training
will not only ensure no customer takes
their vehicle to a competitor but it will
also help retain staff as it demonstrates a
commitment to upskilling.
THE GARAGE 31
26,31, Training All.indd 6 25/01/2024 16:00

NEWS
TreadReader
boosts
productivity
and safety for
national car
dealer
Big Motoring World, one of the UK’s leading independent pre-owned
car dealers, is using the TreadReader 3D DriveOver ramp system to
improve productivity and efficiency at its national preparation centre in
Peterborough.
The company invested £14million in the
new facility to provide ongoing support
for the Group’s fast-expanding UK
dealership network. The centre is equipped
with a full production line including 70 ramps
for maintenance and inspection work and 15
MOT bays, where pre-delivery vehicles and
tyre inspections are carried out.
“We prepare over 200 cars a day at the
Peterborough centre,” says Operations
Director, Bob Ruprah, “and the TreadReader
DriveOver ramps have proved to be a gamechanger
when it comes to taking fast and
accurate tyre tread readings.”
Four TreadReader DriveOver ramps are
installed: three collect tyre tread data as
each car enters the initial preparation phase
and the fourth provides a double check to
capture precise tread readings which are
automatically entered into each vehicle’s
online details.
The surface-mounted system measures
each tyre as it passes over a pressure switch,
and key tyre data is then posted to the parts
department for replacement tyres to be
ordered and prepared ahead of the vehicle
arriving at the finishing bay.
Then, the tyre tread depth and description
is posted to the Big Motoring World website,
along with the car’s general details, so
prospective customers can see the exact
condition of each individual tyre.
“This is all about speed and accuracy,” says
Bob. “We have a one hour window in which
we need to record the condition of each
tyre and place any requisite tyre orders with
our parts department for fitting, prior to the
vehicle entering the workshop.”
Bob explains that before installing the
DriveOver ramps, the process was manual,
which took twice as long to complete,
involved paperwork and could lead to
human error and delays.
“Now, we simply drive each vehicle over
the ramp and all tread depths are instantly
scanned and recorded with 100% accuracy,
while tyre orders are internally placed using
the API.”
The tyre data is processed by the
TreadReader software which analyses
each scan, calculating tread depth and
displaying 3D renders of the actual tyre
tread pattern, with colour-coded tread
depth measurements. Information from
the TreadReader software is then uploaded
in seconds to the TreadManager online
reporting suite (or other data management
system).
Each 3D scan uses 320,000
measurements points with accuracy
to within 0.2mm. “By scanning the full
width of the tyre and 50-60mm around
it, the system far exceeds the accuracy,
consistency and repeatability of traditional
dip gauges and non-contact ‘laser
pointers’,” adds Bob.
Furthermore, says Bob the accuracy
and reliability of the technology, provides
an increased general awareness of tyre
conditions, while reducing potential
accidents and reducing daily workshop
costs
“Ultimately, the TreadReader system
is designed to improve customer
understanding and road safety,” says
TreadReader Area Sales Manager for the
UK and Ireland, Richard Crummack. “For
example, the average stopping distance
on tyres with below 3.5mm of tread will
be significantly increased and at the legal
minimum of 1.6mm, the distance can be up
to 65% greater.”
Plus, explains Richard, low tread depth
will significantly increase the risk of
aquaplaning: on tyres with less than the
minimum tread depth, protection against
aquaplaning is reduced by around 40%.
“TreadReader helps guard against these
issues and enables tyre technicians to
provide fast and accurate information to
keep road users safe and legal.”
“Safety is paramount,” adds Bob Ruprah,
“and in this regard, the TreadReader
DriveOver system ensures best practice,
workshop efficiency and quality assurance
for our customers.”
Operating from 11 locations in the UK,
Big Motoring World carries an average
stock of over 6,000 vehicles for outright
purchase, finance or part-exchange.
Industry accreditations include Used
Car Supermarket of the Year and Dealer
Website of the Year.
32 THE GARAGE
32, News F1 TreadReader.indd 1 25/01/2024 16:01

Products and Services
Contact Paul Leith on 01952 415334
GARAGE EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION AND SERVICES
MEMBERSHIP BODIES
www.hilliers-ltd.com 0330 123 3240
◦ PLAN
◦ DESIGN
◦ INSTALL
◦ SERVICE
◦ CALIBRATE
◦ MAINTAIN
LOOKING TO PURCHASE
GARAGE EQUIPMENT ?
For peace of mind always purchase
Garage Equipment and Services from a GEA Member.
Member companies will always follow the
Garage Equipment Association’s
Code of Conduct.
Upholding Industry standards since 1945
GARAGE EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION AND SERVICES
MOT WALLETS
Hillier 3x1.indd 1 01/12/2022 15:08
LASER & CCD SYSTEMS
CALIBRATIONS & SERVICING
01909 480055 | www.supertracker.com
MOT Wallets from
£178/1000
www.motwallets.co.uk 0800 097 5254
sales@kpsprinters.co.uk
MECHANICAL & ELECTRONIC KEY AND ASSET MANAGEMENT
TRADE SHOWS AND EVENTS
Professional
TOW SHOW
2024
THE LARGEST TRADE SHOW IN THE UK, DEDICATED TO
THE VEHICLE RECOVERY AND ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE INDUSTRY
WEDNESDAY 18th AND THURSDAY
19th SEPTEMBER 2024
For latest show information contact
T: Nick Phipps. 01959 543562
E: Nick.Phipps@kelsey.co.uk
To advertise in...
Products
and Services
costs only...
£65
+ VAT PER MONTH
Supporting the Independent Garage and MOT sector
PACKED WITH
ALL THE LATEST
GARAGE AND
WORKSHOP
NEWS, EVENTS
& FEATURES
IGA celebrates BIG
Awards 2023 winners
www.garageandmot.com
The
Women Automotive Awards
winners revealed
at star-studded event
OE repair solutions for
popular tractor applications
Products and Services
WORKSHOP FURNITURE
TOOLS
THE GARAGE
MAGAZINE
For all your
workshop needs
ELECTRIC VEHICLES
TRAINING
FEATURING
AGRICULTURE
TYRES
Issue 355
October 2023
Tel: 01952 415334
WWW.GARAGEANDMOT.COM
BRAKES
Bridgestone urge motorists to
check tyres after deflating survey
Please visit our website - www.garageandmot.com
1 Front.indd 1 28/09/2023 13:59
OILS
Contact Ben Coates on 01952 415334
THE GARAGE
MAGAZINE
For all your
workshop needs
Tel: 01952 415334
WWW.GARAGEANDMOT.COM
THE GARAGE
MAGAZINE
For all your
workshop needs
Tel: 01952 415334
WWW.GARAGEANDMOT.COM
THE GARAGE
MAGAZINE
For all your
workshop needs
Tel: 01952 415334
WWW.GARAGEANDMOT.COM
THE GARAGE
MAGAZINE
For all your
workshop needs
THE GARAGE
MAGAZINE
For all your
workshop needs
Tel: 01952 415334
WWW.GARAGEANDMOT.COM
Tel: 01952 415334
WWW.GARAGEANDMOT.COM
WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT
THE GARAGE
MAGAZINE
For all your
workshop needs
Tel: 01952 415334
WWW.GARAGEANDMOT.COM
Advertising in
Products and Services
costs just £65.00 + VAT
a month.
Commit to twelve
issues and get 12 adverts
for the price of 10.
Supporting the Independent Garage and MOT sector
PACKED WITH
ALL THE LATEST
GARAGE AND
WORKSHOP
NEWS, EVENTS
& FEATURES
TRAINING
Advert size = 91mm x 31mm
THE GARAGE
MAGAZINE
For all your
workshop needs
Tel: 01952 415334
WWW.GARAGEANDMOT.COM
WORKSHOP FURNITURE
THE GARAGE
MAGAZINE
For all your
workshop needs
INDUSTRY UNITED AT
IAAF ANNUAL AWARDS
AND DINNER 2023
Tel: 01952 415334
WWW.GARAGEANDMOT.COM
AIR CONDITIONING
TYRES
TRAINING
GSF CAR PARTS SETS OUT
EXCITING VISION
The
COMMIT
TO 12 ISSUES
AND GET 12 ADVERTS
FOR THE PRICE OF 10
Advert size
91mm x 31mm
THE GARAGE
MAGAZINE
For all your
workshop needs
Tel: 01952 415334
WWW.GARAGEANDMOT.COM
THE GARAGE
MAGAZINE
For all your
workshop needs
Tel: 01952 415334
WWW.GARAGEANDMOT.COM
THE GARAGE
MAGAZINE
KINGFISHER MOTOR TRADE
OFFERS NEW RISK MANAGEMENT
PROPOSITION FOR 2024
For all your
workshop needs
Tel: 01952 415334
WWW.GARAGEANDMOT.COM
Please visit our website - www.garageandmot.com
Cla sified Example.indd 1 27/01/2021 13:53:17
A NEW YEAR, SO MAKE IT
A SAFE ONE - GRIPCLAD
1 Front.indd 1 21/12/2023 13:11
For more details or to book your next advert contact
Nat Excell
natalie@talk-media.uk
01732 445674 / 07791 094967
Issue 358
January 2024
THE GARAGE 33
33 Product and Services.indd 1 25/01/2024 16:02

PEOPLE
People stories and movements from around your industry
New CEO for 125-year-old
British brand Duckhams Oils
Duckhams, the original British motor oil since 1899, is pleased
to welcome Mike Bewsey as its new CEO. With many years of
experience managing multi-national lubricant brands, Mike
has been appointed to lead the company through its next stage of
global operations.
As Duckhams enters its 125th year, Mike will direct the iconic
engine oil brand during a pivotal period in its development.
“Duckhams is a great brand with a rich heritage, well-loved by
mechanics and motorists,” Mike said. “Since its successful relaunch
in 2018, Duckhams has received strong support from distributors
and partners across the UK, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. The
brand is now available in twenty-seven countries, having doubled its
global network over the past twelve months. The 125th anniversary
is an incredible milestone, giving us a fantastic platform to celebrate
everything Duckhams has achieved in 125 years of winning with
drivers, workshops and distributors. It is an exciting time to be joining
the Duckhams family.”
Mike began his automotive career at Unipart before becoming
Sales & Marketing Director at Comma Oil and Business Unit Director
at Moove Europe. Keen to support the broader lubricants industry,
Mike served as Chairman of the UK lubricants organisation, the
Verification of Lubricant Specifications (VLS), from 2021 to 2023. He
is currently President of the United Kingdom Lubricants Association
(UKLA), leading their work to represent the lubricants industry in
the UK and abroad, actively engaging with other trade associations
and the UK and European Governments on matters impacting the
lubricants industry.
Duckhams has a long history dating back to 1899 when Alexander
Duckham first established his own oil company. His entrepreneurial,
pioneering spirit has been at the company’s heart since then.
Duckhams was responsible for the development of revolutionary
new process oils that controlled the build-up of carbon deposits
in the 1920s and launched the first synchromesh gear oil in the
1930s. In 1951, Duckhams introduced Europe’s first multigrade oil, an
innovation which transformed lubrication technology forever.
Mike’s appointment comes after Rajat Moitra joined the business
as Global Chief Marketing Officer, and Chris Clarkson became Global
Technical and Procurement Officer at the end of 2023. These seniorlevel
engagements have created a new leadership team with decades
of experience leading multi-national lubricants brands.
With a motorsports legacy spanning over fifty years, Duckhams
has sponsored winners in motorcycle racing, Formula 1, Formula 3,
Formula Ford and the Porsche Carrera Cup. Duckhams-sponsored
Jackie Ickx won the F1 Race of Champions at Brands Hatch in 1974,
and in 1975, James Hunt won the Dutch Grand Prix in a Surtees. In
1981, Ari Vatanen became the World Rally Champion. Duckhams’
involvement with the Porsche Carrera GB Cup began in 2021 with
a first victory by Duckhams driver Dan Cammish, followed by Adam
Smalley’s victory in 2023. Duckhams are also OR BRIC Superbike
2023 champions in Thailand, solidifying their motorsports legacy.
Duckhams delivers high-performance engine oils formulated to
keep engines of all ages moving. Their passenger and commercial
vehicle lubricants are available in twenty-seven countries across
Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
34 THE GARAGE
34 people.indd 1 25/01/2024 16:03

TO RECEIVE
YOUR WEEKLY COPY
OF GARAGE PULSE,
MAKE SURE YOU
SUBSCRIBE
TODAY!
We have a range of online advertising packages available.
For more details please contact Nat Excell.
Natalie@talk-media.uk
01732 445674 | 07791 094967
www.garageandmot.com
Garage Pulse Fillers V2.indd 1 25/01/2024 16:05

DO YOU OWN OR RUN AN
INDEPENDENT GARAGE?
We can support you with:
Scan here for
information about
SERMI
• Legal Advice
• HR Support
• MOT Quality Control Schemes
• Health & Safety Programmes
• Technical Support Helpline
• MOT & Technical Training
• Digital Service Records
• Trust My Garage
• Access to ADR for consumer disputes
• Exclusive Member Offers & Services
...and any other issues you need help with
Scan here to visit
the IGA website
The Independent Garage Association has been your trade body since 1913.
Join us to receive everything you need to run a successful garage
business, all in one place at an unbeatable price.
Contact our friendly team today to find out how your
independent garage can benefit from membership:
01788 225 908
enquiries@rmif.co.uk
IGA.indd 1 25/01/2024 16:07