The Independent Garage Association (IGA) has confirmed that Mercedes-Benz has officially committed to the SERMI scheme, bringing the total number of participating vehicle manufacturers in the UK to 22 just weeks before the system goes live.
The addition of the German premium giant is being hailed as a “significant milestone” for the scheme, which launches on 1st April.
As one of the world’s most prominent automotive brands, the inclusion of Mercedes-Benz sends a powerful signal regarding the industry-wide shift toward a standardised, secure framework for accessing vehicle security data.
Related: What is SERMI? Everything independent garages need to know
SERMI (Security-related Vehicle Repair and Maintenance Information) is designed to provide a single, regulated digital “passport” for independent technicians.
This allows approved garages to access sensitive information, such as immobilisers, key coding, and ECU software updates—across multiple brands using one unified process.
With vehicle technology becoming increasingly complex, the IGA stresses that manufacturer participation is critical to ensuring the independent sector remains competitive and capable of repairing modern vehicles.
SERMI-committed VMs
Mercedes-Benz joins an extensive list of manufacturers already committed to the UK rollout, including: Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Citroën, Dodge, DS Automobiles, Fiat, Ford, Jaguar, Jeep®, Lancia, Land Rover, Maserati, Nissan, Opel, Peugeot, Ram Trucks, Toyota, Vauxhall, Volvo, and Volvo Trucks.
Stuart James, Chief Executive of the IGA, said: “Welcoming Mercedes-Benz to SERMI is another major step forward for the scheme in the UK.
“To see such a globally significant manufacturer come on board at this stage sends a very clear signal about the importance and credibility of SERMI.
“This level of support ensures that independent garages will be able to operate within a secure, recognised framework.”
The IGA is issuing a fresh call for independent garages to assess whether SERMI is relevant to their business model and to begin the onboarding process immediately.
Related: Garage Hive and Garage Vitals to host SERMI webinar for independent garages
Because the application requires DBS checks and involves specific processing times, the association warns that early preparation is the only way to ensure a smooth transition. Garages that wait until after the launch date risk being locked out of security-related repairs while their applications are being vetted.
The IGA has pledged to maintain ongoing communication with the sector as SERMI adoption progresses, describing the scheme as one of the most significant developments for the independent sector in recent years.
