The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) has formally challenged another vehicle manufacturer over what it believes are discriminatory barriers preventing independent garages from accessing essential vehicle systems, a move the Federation warns could ultimately restrict consumer choice and push up repair costs.
The issue centres on independent operators being unable to log into a vehicle manufacturer’s online system, access that is routinely available to main dealers. According to the IAAF, this raises serious concerns around compliance with both Vehicle Type Approval legislation and the Motor Vehicle Block Exemption framework, which clearly state that independent operators must be granted access to repair and maintenance information on a non-discriminatory basis.
The Federation has confirmed it will continue to raise these types of compliance issues with the UK’s Market Surveillance Unit if necessary.
Mark Field, Chief Executive of the IAAF, said: “This challenge is becoming more common for IAAF and we will continue to stand up for the rights of our members, vehicle owners and operators. If independent workshops are denied rightful access to a manufacturer’s systems, a vehicle owner’s choice is effectively limited. This is not just an industry concern; it’s a consumer rights issue.”
The warning comes at a time when motorists are already facing rising motoring costs. A recent survey conducted by the IAAF, involving 1,042 representative British drivers, revealed that 92% believe they should have the right to choose which workshop services and maintains their vehicle. Furthermore, 82% support government action to safeguard that choice through updated legislation.
Nearly half of respondents (42%) said intervention is needed to ensure competition keeps maintenance and repair costs down, while others highlighted the importance of convenience and local access to trusted independent garages.
Field added: “Healthy competition keeps standards high and prices fair. If independent garages cannot access the vehicle in the same way as main dealers, motorists could find themselves with fewer options and higher bills. That is not what drivers want, and it is not what the legislation requires.”
The Federation continues to campaign through its ‘Right to Repair’ initiative to ensure independent operators can compete fairly and consumers retain genuine freedom of choice.
