ISN Garage Assist Blog

[et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="3.22" custom_padding="||0px|||"][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.27.4" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat"] This essential document has been produced by the Garage Equipment Association (GEA), Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF), Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), Scottish Motor Trade Association (SMTA) and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). The "COVID-19 Protective Measures: Automotive Aftermarket Sector Industry Guidance and Best Practice" has been supplied by these leading bodies with the aim of educating those in garages, warehouses, mobile operations and parts distributors about safe operating practises surrounding the recent pandemic. It's content touches on every aspect of...

Could the end be in sight sooner than expected for the MOT Exemption?  Following the Prime Minister’s announcement on Sunday night (10/05/2020), the GEA released a statement revealing they have been speaking to the DVSA. Part of this statement included a comment from the DVSA stating they would like to remove the Vehicle MOT extension program as soon as is practical to do so. With many now having reason to use their vehicles more regularly under the latest guidelines, this could be much sooner than the original 6-month extension. This new guidance is now encouraging many people to go back to...

[et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="3.22"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="3.27.4" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat"] The AMN Garage Assist team is available & ready to help you serve the key workers of the UK. We are continuously monitoring the situation around COVID-19 & operating in line with the latest advice from the Government. It is essential now, more than ever, that we as a sector ensure the roads of the UK remain safe. While steps like the MOT exemption may mean owners are not required to ensure their vehicle is MOT'd, they must ensure it remains safe to...

We're overwhelmed with the care key workers in garages across the UK are taking to ensure others remain safe & able to travel in the isolation of their own vehicles.  We were recently able to complete the install of a brand new Digital ADAS system, along with handheld TreadReader for Central Autopoint.  ADAS Calibrations are an essential part of many jobs now & keep vehicles safe. The decision to invest in such technology shows a businesses dedication to offering the best service.  The handheld TreadReader allows technicians to check the health of your wheels without you having to leave your vehicle....

Every brand of garage equipment has its own nuisances. Different ways you’d deal with installing, servicing, parts & fixing.To that ends every business is also different, with different combinations of equipment, tools & techniques.All of this will need servicing so what's the solution? Have someone new turning up every other week to calibrate a different tool or service a lift? Someone else to chase for everything to ensure it is safe & compliant.Well no, that sounds terrible. What you need is a brand agnostic servicing solution. That’s one company that will handle all the calibrations & servicing no matter the make,...

It's not exactly news to many that ADAS Diagnostics was a hot topic throughout 2019 – and so far, our prediction of little let-up moving into 2020, has been spot on! But for many looking to invest in this state-of-the-art equipment, ADAS diagnostics has become the biggest technological headache of the year so far. ADAS like most new technology when it is first introduced is an unknown. It is highly anticipated and can be viewed as another unnecessary expense. But with these sensors now commonplace on consumer vehicles, you risk falling behind the curve if not investing & missing out on...

    Hofmann Megaplan utilise information from industry leader Autodata With technical information for 142 manufacturers covering 34,000 models, Autodata gives users of compatible Hofmann Megaplan aligners all the detailed information needed to carry out alignment checks, calibrations & related servicing.  Autodata is the industry leader in automotive technical information. Their new Web Application covers 34,000 models, giving its customers all the technical information needed to carry out service, maintenance and repairs. Ssence HD 3D wheel aligner installed at D and R Tyres, powered by Autodata Suto sets out to be the most innovative, accurate and respected supplier of technical information...

ADAS Calibration Equipment is still a relatively new phenomenon. Investment in it is a big decision that can for many, be one massive headache. Speaking to someone who understands ADAS services & the full scope of systems on offer can be essential; especially when it comes to such a large investment which will enable you to complete the ADAS calibrations your customers now require. You’ve probably been thinking something like “Ok, ADAS is a thing. Do any of my customer even need these calibrations? Oh, I should be completing it after a variety of jobs? It can be an extra source...

This February, the introduction of connected Decelerometer brake testers have been brought into circulation, as the DVSA continue to take the necessary steps towards securing a completely connected MOT process.As we have highlighted before in our previous blog, the DVSA will now only approve new applications for testing facilities if they include an approved model of connected decelerometer brake tester, as of February 1st 2020.This is only the second of two pieces of MOT equipment that have made the change to connected compatibility, with more MOT rule extensions drawing ever closer. The future of MOT services in 2020 Looking to the...

  It can be easy to get carried away by the hype of ADAS diagnostic equipment. These systems are dominating social & appear at all the shows. However, if you don’t know what you are doing this equipment could be no more than an overpriced TV! Advanced Driver Assistance Systems are complex and should be treated as such. Investing in ADAS calibration services is a big deal and selecting the right supplier can make or break the return you’ll see. ADAS is expert level; get qualified! ADAS calibrations are a crucial process for the efficiency of the vehicle’s systems. If the...

Established in 1945, the Garage Equipment Association has been leading from the front for 75 years now as founder and upholders of many industry standards. This not-for-profit organisation is at the forefront of many industry processes, including: Administrating the approval of UK MOT equipment Accrediting of garage equipment engineers Arbitrating for our industry Training & certification of engineers across a number of disciplines& so much more!Considering the reputation and how highly respected the GEA is across the industry, it is easy to see why we are so proud to be members. It’s a sign of quality which resonates with everything we...

Our specialist ATL MOT division has moved from strength to strength this year. Renowned for an unbeatable 360-degree service from the first call, no ask is too big in helping to get your MOT Bay up & running. The easiest way to showcase this. Let one of our customers do it for us! Transcription: Hofmann Megaplan: What made you choose Hofmann Megaplan for your MOT Bay? Richard of Ruislip Tyres: Ease! We didn't really get much response back from the emails & phone calls [to others], so rang Andy at Hofmann [Megaplan] the next day. I think two days later he...

2019 has been an incredible year at AMN Garage Assist – we have helped hundreds of garages with everything from brand new equipment installs to the management of their MOT Bay.As the year draws to a close it is natural to reflect on the changes that have impacted us & our customers. Much of this change was focused on the inevitable rollout of MOT Connected Equipment. We’ve been at every relevant gathering with bodies like the DVSA & GEA to ensure we are one step ahead of these new developments.This also means we’re ready to answer any questions you might have...

2020 is set to see no slowdown in the talk around Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) as garage owners are wising up to the idea of investing in ADAS calibration equipment. A steep learning curve is ahead for mechanics yet to grasp the ins & outs of ADAS, but digital ADAS equipment is making this far less daunting. As a garage owner, keeping up with the development of ADAS equipment and the best way to perform ADAS diagnostics can be very difficult – however 2019 has seen many ADAS specific open days popping up, with a chance to get hands on....

As most of you may already know, the DVSA have been rolling out connected MOT equipment into circulation across the UK since the beginning of October 2019. Working closely with a few specialist garage equipment suppliers, the DVSA have been creating new regulations that will need to be put in place. Any new MOT stations or existing bays looking to update or upgrade their current MOT equipment, will need to make sure these changes are applied. Being in the dark when it comes to these new regulations can be difficult – especially with the announcement of new connected equipment to be introduced...

 Following on from the introduction of connected Roller Brake Testers in October 2019, the DVSA has now announced the second cut-off deadline for the next piece of MOT equipment.Connected decelerometers will officially be on the mandate from 1st February 2020.Working closely with decelerometer manufacturers, the DVSA has been able to develop the software that will allow these products to connect to the MOT testing service. What does this mean for you? As with the roller brake testers, the DVSA will only approve new applications for testing facilities if they include an approved model of connected decelerometer brake tester from this date.This...

To many, nothing seems special about a two-post lift. A basic version of this equipment staple might be all you've ever owned or worked with. Turns out vehicle lifting equipment is one of the most interesting areas to watch! A two-post lift can come ...

Who'd have thought, a now stable product in garages could still be subject to innovative new changes! Even the most basic of models are changing to become more efficient, operator friendly & fitted with features many might consider a luxury. That...

As all garages will know by now, tyre changing, wheel balancing and wheel alignment all go hand in hand when it comes to your customer's tyres. The simple fact is all these services provide crucial steps to ensure longevity, safety and efficient tyre...

With the introduction of connected brake testers into the industry taking place last week, we are taking a deeper look into the benefits of MOT connected equipment for your business. The DVSA have brought in new rules & regulations surrounding mandatory connected equipment, but not many garage owners know what that means for their equipment or services. Keeping informed and up to date with the latest MOT news is all a part of offering the service. We have already altered our way of thinking and operating to incorporate MOT connected equipment into your garage to make this easier. Even before full connection to the DVSA, this new way of operating is highlighting the benefits...