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Car repairer

Introduction

So you've decided you want to run a motor repair business. Maybe you've recently completed a relevant training course, or perhaps you've been working for someone else and feel the time is right to go it alone. Whatever the reason, this guide will take you through the issues you need to consider and give you practical pointers on getting started.

Sector trends

Even though the number of cars in the UK has continued to rise over the last few years, the car repair sector as a whole has not had an easy time. Demand for repairs has fallen for a number of reasons, including:

  • the improved reliability of new cars
  • longer servicing intervals
  • increasing use of replacement parts rather than making repairs
  • extended warranties on new cars
  • the economic downturn which began in the late 2000s. To reduce expenditure, many motorists have chosen to skip scheduled services and ignore minor damage to their vehicles

In addition, car repairers have had to cope with increasing competition - particularly from franchised motor dealers. (Traditionally, their workshops have dealt mainly with servicing or warranty work on nearly new cars, but these days they are trying to attract owners of older cars - at the expense of the independent garage.) Many 'quick-fit' tyre and exhaust centres have expanded their ranges and now offer servicing, often at very competitive prices.

The early 2000s saw a change in EU legislation that, in theory, should have opened up the car repair market to independent repairers enabling them to become an 'authorised repairer' and work on cars under warranty. However, in practice it appears that the effect on the independent sector has been limited as the vehicle manufacturers have set their standards so high that they discourage many independents from attempting to gain authorised repairer status. The regulations were amended once again recently and go further in ensuring that the automotive aftermarket remains competitive to the benefit of consumers. The new rules make a number of important provisions, including access for independent businesses to repair and maintenance information, tools and training from vehicle manufacturers. The Right to Repair Campaign is very active on behalf of the independent repair sector and their website includes a number of helpful documents.

Over the past few years, this fall in demand and increase in competition has led to a drop in the number of independent car repair businesses in the UK.

You will have to decide whether:

  • there is sufficient demand in your area to support your proposed business
  • you will be able to compete against other outlets offering car repairs and servicing
  • you need to specialise in order to attract customers

1.1 Keeping up to date with developments

Trade associations can help you to keep up to date with what is happening in the car repair sector as well as offering other benefits including advice, information and training. Associations that represent the motor repair industry include: