Professional Motor Mechanic

The industry needs more apprentices, no one can dispute that. However, it’s easier said than done and many small independent workshops struggle to find, hire and retain younger staff – let alone train them up! We visited an apprentice, Tia Marsh and her tutor at East Coast College, Matt Yeldham, to see what some of the challenges facing apprentices themselves were. Throughout this episode, you will be confronted with an interesting, funny and moving portrait of the industry we all work to improve every day. 

The classic car market is a growing one, bringing a touch of prestige to drivers across the country. But who are those drivers? And is it true that the classic car owner is still primarily a DIYer tinkering away in the garage?  

Well, to answer those questions and get a better idea of what opportunity classic car repair and maintenance offers to independent garages, we travelled to Clayton Classics in Coventry to speak to Director Dean Allsop. Listen to this episode to find out more. 

Father-son garages are the powerhouse behind the independent aftermarket. They provide a rock solid base on which UK car repair not only survives, but thrives. How many times do you come across a garage owned by a father whose son also helps out on the workshop floor? It seems that car repair is particularly likely to feature that familial bond that just adds a little warmth to the working day. But what happens when the time comes to pass that garage down to the next generation? How easy is it to relinquish control and place the fate of your workshop in the hands of the next generation?  

This is what we spoke to Tom Cockings, from Robert Cockings Motor Repair about. Tom is a great example of a son who has taken the family garage to new heights without losing sight of what made it great in the first place. Listen to this episode to hear Tom’s story.  

Also in this episode, Tom Henman, editor of Professional Motor Factor magazine, chats to WAI’s Richard Welland about his role and how the brand is engaging with motor factors.  

That the automotive aftermarket is in the midst of a skills crisis can hardly be doubted. Many workshops are complaining that they don’t have the staff to keep up with the amount of work they are presented with and tales are often told of technicians who have left the industry for far easier jobs elsewhere, pocketing more each month in the process. In times like these, the knee-jerk reaction is to raise wages and attract more staff. The only problem is that wages have gone up, quite considerably in fact, and still the problem of attracting new staff – and new blood – into the industry persists.  

So what to do about? Well that’s the topic we are exploring on the PMM Podcast this month. PMM editor Kieran Nee caught up with three figures from across the industry to find out what they think could provide an answer to the crisis. So if you want to learn about some of the most forward-thinking approaches to attracting and retaining staff, listen to this episode! 

This episode is sponsored by LKQ-Euro Car Parts. 

The Government has now published its findings and response to last year’s consultation and call for evidence on the MOT, looking at the frequency of the test and what amendments and updates the DVSA could make to the test to bring into line with current passenger vehicle landscape. But whilst the Government is focussing on the cars and technology of the future, are they forgetting what makes the MOT work in the first place? Namely the thousands of MOT testers themselves, many of whom often feel frustrated that their experiences and opinions are being ignored.  

In this episode, you’ll hear from Protech Academy’s Leigh Marsden and Kallum Dorman about the issues surrounding training and assessment, as well as the debates surrounding the maximum fee and a lack of face-to-face contact with the DVSA.  

Also, Hayley Pells from the IMI discusses the role the Government plays in the MOT and what the IMI is doing to ensure independent workshops are being heard.

Like ‘em or loathe ‘em, EVs are out driving around on British roads as we speak and many of them are now outside of their manufacturer warranty period. What does this mean? Well, according to EV specialist Matt Cleevely, this offers the perfect opportunity for independent garages like yours to make some money, which is always a good thing! 

This episode, Freya catches up with Matt Cleevely to see what the fuss is about EVs (spoiler – they’re really fun to drive), whilst Kieran visits our new headline sponsor LKQ Euro Car Parts to find out what they’re doing to support independent garages looking to go electric.

This month the PMM Podcast team are setting out to answer a simple question: Are fake parts on the rise? The answer is, of course, anything but simple.  

In this episode you will find out what manufacturers, trade organisations and even the police are doing to tackle illegitimate parts infiltrating the aftermarket.  

As the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite, the temptation to cut corners grows ever stronger. Yet, as the conversations in this episode of the podcast prove, when it comes to fake parts, if something feels too good to be true, it usually is.

Featuring:  

Stuart James, IGA (Independent Garage Association) 

Richard Armstrong, Lumileds (UK Distributors of Phillips Bulbs) 

Ron Merralls, Niterra (formerly NGK) 

Mike Sadler, Denso Aftermarket 

Siti Abdullah, Brembo Brakes 

Matthew Ellis, Comline/Allied Nippon 

Tom Cockings, Robert Cockings Motor Repair

It’s time to start rethinking health and wellbeing in the automotive aftermarket. Too often discussions around mental health are held in isolation from all the other issues that affect our overal health and wellbeing. It’s time to acknowledge that how healthy we are physically, how satisfied we are professionally and how comfortable we are financially can all impact our mental health. Whether it be stress, anxiety or even depression, the root cause could be found in your workshop.  

Luckily, we in the aftermarket have access to one of the best health and wellbeing charities around: BEN.

In this episode of the PMM Podcast, Kieran sits down with BEN’s Rachel Clift to discover how our working lives can impact our wellbeing and what BEN is actively doing to help technicians in need. And remember, you can call on BEN anytime you think you need to: don’t wait ‘till it’s too late! 

Also in this episode, the IGA’s Stuart James  

You can contact BEN in the following ways:

Call: 08081 311 333

Email: supportservices@ben.org.uk

Website: https://ben.org.uk/

Are you ready for the UK’s longest-running aftermarket trade show next month? Listen to this month’s episode of the PMM Podcast to get revved up for Mechanex, taking place at Sandown Park Racecourse, 7-8th November.  

Hear what show sponsors Mann+Hummel and Alldata are bringing and why they think Mechanex-PMM Live is an opportunity you can’t afford to miss. We also speak to seminar speaker Darren Darling about DPFs and how following a set process can change your business.  

And if that wasn’t enough exhaust talk for you, PMF editor Tom Henman sits down with BM Cats’ Mark Blinston to get his opinions on the importance of motor factors. 

In this episode of the Professional Motor Mechanic Podcast, PMM’s Editor Kieran Nee interviews the automotive aftermarket’s numbers man – Quentin Le Hetet, Country Director UK at GiPA.

Since the pandemic and to now as we’re navigating the depths of the cost-of-living crisis, it can often feel like garages barely keeping their heads above water. However, Quentin is here to tell us that this might actually be the time for independent garages to thrive. The ageing car parc coupled with drivers continuing to spend money on their cars whilst cutting back in other areas, means UK independent garages are in a position to ‘clean up’. 

Also in this episode, join Professional Motor Factor editor Tom Henman as he catches up with Jane, a regional BDM for Motor Parts Direct about the importance of upholding customer relationships and we hear from Kirsty about the latest news from the aftermarket.

In this month’s episode of the PMM Podcast, PMM’s News & Product’s editor Freya Coleman visits the woman behind Womanic – Louise Baker. Louise has used her experience running a successful workshop to promote the trade to women and has even appeared on TV to spread her message that the automotive workshop is the perfect place for women to find a trade. Join Freya and Louise in her workshop where they discuss the challenges facing women entering the workshop and what we can all do to create a more diverse workforce.  

Also in this episode, join Professional Motor Factor editor Tom Henman as he catches up with Kalimex’s Mike Schlup for a day at the races. 

Aftermarket trade shows offer the perfect opportunity to catch up with leading figures in the industry. Here, the PMM team brings you three great interviews from the recent Automechanika show touching on the big issues affecting the independent aftermarket.  

So come along with the Freya Coleman and Kieran Nee, presenters of the Professional Motor Mechanic podcast to chat with Steve Nash of the IMI, Mike Bewsey from the VLS and Bill Fennell of the Motor Ombudsman to find out what challenges the sector is facing and how the organisations that stand up for you are dealing with key issues.  

Also this episode, editor of Professional Motor Factor, Tom Henman, pops back into Car Spares Factor’s HQ to catch up with owner Sanjiv Shah.

Thanks to TotalEnergies for sponsoring this episode.

When it comes to car lovers, there are two ends of the spectrum. At one end are the classic car lovers – they love proper vintage motors, authenticity and heritage; at the other, the EV crew – nothing is more blissful to these people than silently gliding around town looking for charge points. One company is making it its mission to bring these two factions together, dragging classic cars into the 21st century and giving electric cars a cooler vibe.  

Join the PMM team as we visit Fellten, a company manufacturing EV-conversion kits for the classic car market, to find out more about how independent garages could be adding a profitable string to their bow by taking customers’ cars from vintage to voltage. 

https://fellten.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/felltensystems/ 

Fetauring: 

Chris Hazell, CEO Fellten 

Garage Hive's Garage Industry Trends data platform recently collected and released a load of data from all the MOTs done in the UK in 2021 so we invited Alex Lindley down to our studio just after the data was released to the industry to find out more.

Featured: 

Alex Lindley, Garage Hive

You might imagine that your workshop has little in common with the Make Ready Centres across the country which keep the NHS’s fleet of vehicles up and running, ready to respond to emergencies at any moment. Well, as we discovered when we visited the South East Coast Ambulance Service in Banstead, many of the pressures and challenges faced by the independent sector are also affecting the NHS.  

Listen as we take you into the workshop where high mileage ambulances get serviced and repaired, and we discuss the advantages and challenges of running an NHS workshop. 

Featured: 

Ross Crook, area workshop manager, NHS South East Coast Ambulance Service

If you’re concerned about the latest MOT proposals from the government, you need to listen to the latest episode of the PMM Podcast.  

Cars have never been so advanced, with ADAS and autonomous driving increasingly taking care of road safety and modern engines maximising emissions efficiency. What’s more, cars communicate with their drivers in ways they have never done before. 

So, the big question the government is asking is: Does the MOT still need to be an annual test?  

To get a straight answer, we visited garages to find out what they are seeing on a daily basis and get their opinion on whether reducing the MOT frequency is a good idea or not. We also spoke to Nick Lyes, head of roads policy at RAC and to Barry Babister, managing director at MOT Juice to see if they could confirm or dispel some myths surrounding the MOT.  

Also in this episode, News & Products Editor Freya Coleman takes listeners through the latest aftermarket news, including the latest updates on MVBEO legislation affecting independent workshops’ ability to compete with franchise dealers.  

From the factor viewpoint, PMF Editor Tom Henman visits YMF Car Parts to discuss how workshops’ spending priorities change according to the economic landscape.  

Many thanks go to our headline sponsor for this episode, Alliance Automotive Group.  

Link to MOT Juice’s MOT Consultation Guide: https://youtu.be/5Wag2pSwzgc  

Link to the petition to stop the changes to the MOT frequency: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/631650  

Featured: 

Barry Babister, managing director, MOT Juice 

Nicholas Lyes, head of roads policy, RAC 

Matthew Pope, director, YMF Car Parts 

James Fletcher, director, YMF Car Parts 

Have recent oil shortages really plunged the automotive aftermarket into the dark days of the 1970s (bell bottom overalls, anyone?), or is there more to be optimistic about as the true worth of engine oil is finally acknowledged? This month, the PMM podcast takes you on a journey to find out all about oil – the secret ingredient making cars more efficient than ever. In the episode, Mike Bewsey, Chairman of the Verification of Lubrication Specifications, demystifies some of the jargon surrounding oils and explains why they’re getting so complicated. Meanwhile, Witham Group’s Nigel Bottom offers some interesting insights into the automotive lubricants industry.  

News & Products Editor Freya Coleman brings you the latest updates on the ongoing battle over MOTs, whilst Editor of PMF, Tom Henman sits down for a chat with a Scottish motor factor to discuss parts shortages and the importance of supporting local businesses.  

Thanks go to this month’s sponsor, Delphi Technologies – happy listening! 

Featured: 

Mike Bewsey, VLS 

Nigel Bottom, Witham Group 

Parv Arshad, Motor Factors Scotland 

We've been podcasting for 7 months now! And as a special, festive gift to you, we've put together some of our best bits from the podcast in 2022.

Kieran and Freya reminisce over garage visits, conversations with industry experts, mechanics and those who are the future of the industry.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of us at PMM.

We'll be back in February with a brand new episode.

What if the aftermarket’s leading figures sat down to discuss the impact the government’s push towards electrification could have on the independent aftermarket? Now there’s an idea. 

This episode we visit the aftermarket trade show Mechanex, where just that happened. We got five of the UK’s most well-known commentators on stage to share their thoughts and expertise on where mobility could, and should, be heading.  

PMM News and Products Editor, Freya Coleman updates listeners on the latest news affecting the aftermarket, while Tom Henman shines a light on the prospect of drivers doing self repairs.  

Big thanks to Corteco, supporters of this episode! 

Featured: 

Neil Pattemore, UK AFCAR 

Colin Gleghorn, Autotech 

Frank Harvey, IGA 

Matt Cleevely, EV Expert 

Tom Denton, Automotive Author 

Dave Owen, CAAR Buying Group 

The average new car has over 100 sensors, 100 electrical components and as many as 1400 semi conductor chips. Modern cars provide a level of comfort, security and efficiency that previous car makers could only have dreamed of.

The catch?

Each of these components is one more thing which can fail, and when they do, finding out where the issue is, what’s failed and why can be a truly herculean task. This is where diagnostics comes into play. 

In this episode, Professional Motor Mechanic editor Kieran Nee explores what diagnostic equipment is on offer to UK workshops to help them discover exactly why those components failed.

We’ll also catch up with our headline sponsor for this episode, Pico Technology, get the latest aftermarket news and catch up with PMF Editor, Tom Henman, as he visits the latest branch of Car Spares Factors to find out what challenges motor factors face.

Big thanks to Corteco for also supporting this episode!

Are cybersecurity concerns being used to unfairly squeeze out the independent aftermarket from competing against franchised dealers?  

This episode we are looking at how vehicle manufacturers are restricting access to vehicle data and what effect that is having on workshops. Professional Motor Mechanic editor Kieran Nee visits Neville Smith at his workshop, Nev’ll Fix It, along with Neil Pattemore, technical director at UK AFCAR, to find out more. Neil is working on the frontline when it comes to ensuring the aftermarket retains fair access to vehicle data and is the country’s leading expert on the issue.  

This episode also sees the return of the Professional Motor Factor segment with editor Tom Henman recapping his recent trip to Automechanika, as well as catching up with Auto Spares Wales’ Steve Jones and Tony Griffiths. 

You’ll also hear from Headline Sponsor Corteco, one of the leading suppliers of components for the Independent Automotive Aftermarket. 

Big thanks to AISIN which also supported this episode! 

As more and more Local Councils receive funding to deliver electric charge points across their boroughs, should garages be focusing on electrification?

This episode we focus on electrification and the future of mobility. Professional Motor Mechanic Editor Kieran Nee speaks to Andy Brooke – a leader in vehicle diagnostic tools and automotive training – who’s here to share his thoughts on electric vehicles, and how workshops can respond to their arrival. Andy is an engineer and a businessman, and works with the IMI, the IAAF and the UKAF.

This episode also features the first Professional Motor Factor segment from editor Tom Henman, which includes some wise words from GSF President and COO, Mark Eburne.

You’ll also hear from Headline Sponsor Corteco, one of the leading suppliers of components for the Independent Automotive Aftermarket.

Big thanks to Pico Technology which also supported this episode!

Recruiting car technicians is proving difficult for UK garages. School leavers just aren't choosing it as a career option. At the same time, mechanics are retiring and EU citizens are leaving. So what can garage owners do to secure new recruits?

In this episode Kieran Nee - editor of Professional Motor Mechanic Magazine - speaks to automotive apprentices and graduates, to find out why young people aren't choosing to be workshop technicians.3

He also speaks to Gavin White, CEO of training and recruitment specialist Autotech, about what garages can do to find valuable recruits. Last stop, Combined Fleet Maintenance in Northampton, to discuss its approach to training and recruitment.

This episode looks at the importance of pricing jobs right and offers some top tips for Garage workshops.

Pricing jobs is something garages often struggle with. With mounting pressure from customers to lower car repair costs, garages are often left wondering, what is the right amount?

We speak with two garages in Walthamstow about how they price jobs as well as Jon Douglass, Membership Services Manager at the Indpependent Garage Association.

Tina Drayson, Operations Manager at Garage group CCM, also gives her tips to pricing your jobs better.

We also head down to SantaPod Raceway to interview Nick Good, NG Motorsport – a drag racer sponsored by Lucas Oil.

Automotive supply chains have been thoroughly disrupted by international events over the last two years. For the UK's independent garages, this has led to delays for parts and price increases.

In the first episode of The Professional Motor Mechanic Podcast (PMM), the PMM team speak with three local garages about the supply chain challenges they’re facing and how it affects their workshop. The team also catch up with two aftermarket insiders - Julian Woods, chief executive of the Garage Equipment Association and Marc Wise, sales manager at Shaftec – about how suppliers are responding to the challenge but also what’s around the corner.