The UK independent garage sector is edging closer to long-awaited access to critical security-related vehicle data, with the Independent Garage Association (IGA) recently confirming that the SERMI scheme received a recommendation for approval from UKAS.
But while the launch is in sight, the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) has warned that the Government’s voluntary approach risks leaving garages at a disadvantage.
For years, access to key coding, ECU programming and software downloads was the preserve of franchised dealerships.
Security-Related Repair and Maintenance Information (SERMI) changes that, creating a single certification process to give approved independent garages secure access to manufacturer data.
What you need to know about SERMI
– Access is coming: SERMI will give certified independent garages secure access to key coding, ECU programming, and software downloads previously restricted to dealerships.
– UK launch is voluntary: Unlike the EU, the UK Government has not mandated SERMI, creating uncertainty over uptake and participation.
– Accreditation questions: Many potential Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs) are waiting until the scheme is mandatory, which could delay full implementation.
– Industry push for mandate: The IAAF and SMMT are campaigning for SERMI to be legally required to ensure a level playing field.
The scheme, developed in collaboration with government and vehicle manufacturers, has been championed by the automotive aftermarket for more than a decade.
Following UKAS’s recommendation for approval, the IGA anticipates the scheme will go live this year.
Stuart James, IGA Chief Executive, said: “We are delighted that after many years the scheme has finally come to fruition.
“Subject to final documents being issued, we anticipate it going live this year.
“SERMI not only simplifies access to vital security-related data but also highlights the professionalism of certified garages.
“Participation is vital for the future success and competitiveness of independent operators.”
However, unlike the EU where SERMI is mandated by law, the UK government decided post-Brexit to make the scheme voluntary.
The IAAF believes this leaves too many unanswered questions for garages considering whether to sign up.
Chief Executive Mark Field said: “We will campaign for SERMI to be mandated in UK, ensuring a level playing field for independent operators and to provide the freedoms to the sector that Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Order (MVBEO) and Vehicle Type Approval legislation need to be able to provide.”
The federation points out that many potential Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs) are reluctant to apply until the scheme is mandated, while some vehicle manufacturers are still unclear on whether they will participate in the UK at all.
The road ahead
The IAAF’s position is backed by the SMMT, with both organisations noting that the EU scheme is already set to expand into wider “security and safety” areas.Without mandatory adoption in the UK, they argue, independents could once again find themselves at a disadvantage.
With the IGA preparing for rollout and the IAAF campaigning for stronger legal backing, SERMI is moving firmly onto the agenda.
For independent garages, the scheme promises new freedoms – but also raises questions about how and when those benefits will be fully realised.
