Garage news

Snap-on has launched a suite of free training modules for technicians to get the most out their diagnostic equipment. The online facilities aims to helps garages use the tools more efficiently through the help of a number of bite-sized videos and multimedia slideshows

More than 100 apprentices have passed The Parts Alliance Servicesure Autocentres Programme since its inception in 2007. 113 apprentices completed 24 weeks of training over 36 months to gain their qualifications as light vehicle technicians

Aftermarket small and medium sized businesses could be set to benefit from better funding as Government scrutinises the lending process. The Parliamentary Treasury Committee is beginning its inquiry today, and will be investigating how easy it is for SMEs to borrow money, the treatment they receive from the banks and how to open the sector up to more competition

Technicians wishing to prove they are the best have just one week left to apply. Entrants must register and complete an online assessment for Top Technician 2014 before March 3, to be in with a chance of competing for the £2500 cash prize

Independent garages are breaking the notion that only franchised dealerships are associated with deliver high standards of customer service and repairs, says Approved Garages. Network Manager Phil Seymour said that it came as no surprise that the Motor Codes 2014 report showed motorists favouring independent workshops over their franchised counterparts

Valeo has launched a new catalogue outlining all of its Silencio range of wiper blades. It has the complete range of 221 part numbers consisting of a mix of universal, flat blade, specific-fit, rear and hybrid wipers, covering more than 96 percent of the car parc.

Despite the best efforts of the British weather we were delighted to welcome the great and good of the aftermarket to the 2014 CAT Awards. While the sun was shining as our event kicked off, rain, wind and flooding made for some epic journeys for those making their way to the awards venue at Twickenham Stadium from around the UK and abroad

The hunt for the best young British automotive apprentice is on, as the Institute of the Motor Industry opens the doors to its 2014 SkillAuto competition. It will see young technicians battling it out to be crowned as champion in front of a live audience at the final of the Skills Show in November, which attracted more than 100,000 people last year

A ‘very broad prohibition of referral fees’ and an ‘urgent need for reform’ is needed in the insurance market according to the body which represents eight syndicates of motor underwriters. The Lloyd’s Market Association has agreed with the Competition Commission view that the insurance market currently is acting to the detriment of motorists and that intervention is necessary

Comline has just launched its thousandth part number in its newly formed steering and suspension range. The announcement comes just 12 months on from when this product category was originally launched, and has seen it quadruple its range from 250 to 1000 parts.