The Independent Garage Association (IGA) has confirmed that the European SERMI scheme will officially go live in the UK on 1st April, a date described as a “historic breakthrough” for the independent trade.
The announcement marks the successful conclusion of a 17-year campaign to secure access to security-related vehicle data for UK independents.
From April, eligible garages will finally be able to access the secure information needed to repair modern vehicles, such as immobilisers, key coding, and ECU updates, through a single, accredited framework.
Related: What is SERMI? Everything independent garages need to know
Stuart James, Chief Executive of the IGA, said: “Reaching full approval was a landmark achievement, but announcing the go-live date is the moment when 17 years of determination finally comes to life for independent garages.
“From the 1st April, eligible repairers can operate within a trusted, recognised framework that puts independent garages back on a level playing field.”
The IGA has secured access to the European SERMI Trust Centre, ensuring that UK garages are vetted and recognised to the same high standards as their continental counterparts.
SERMI is designed to provide a trusted, manufacturer-recognised route to data that is becoming increasingly restricted as vehicle technology evolves. Without it, independent garages faced being locked out of essential repairs on next-generation vehicles.
However, the IGA believes the scheme offers more than just technical access. It serves as a badge of professionalism, proving to customers and manufacturers alike that an independent garage meets the highest standards of integrity and security.
Next steps for garages
With the go-live date set, the IGA has confirmed it will continue to support garages through the onboarding process.
The association is also looking beyond April 1st, advancing further initiatives focused on Secure Gateway Access and Cyber Security, ensuring that the UK independent sector remains at the forefront of servicing connected and autonomous vehicles.
Garages can apply for accreditation now to ensure they are ready for the April 1st launch. Visit the IGA website for full details on the vetting and application process.
Stuart added: “As the SERMI scheme embeds itself within the UK, SERMI is more than access to information. It is a declaration of integrity, capability, and the future of independent repair.
“oday, independent garages can demonstrate they meet the highest standards, and their role in the UK motor industry has never been stronger.”
In a move that IGA describes as cementing the UK’s standing in the global aftermarket, Britain has become the only country outside the European Union to achieve both approval and implementation of the SERMI scheme.
This unique status is the result of close collaboration between the IGA, the UK Government, European garage bodies, and the European SERMI Board.
