The end of Block Exemption regulation as it’s currently known in 2023 could make access to technical repair data and parts significantly more difficult, the Independent Garage Association (IGA) has told its members.
Currently Block Exemption requires vehicle manufactures to enable access to repair and maintenance data and parts supply to independent garages.
However, the IGA said that: “In reality, as vehicles last longer and are retained for longer, it is unlikely that the franchised sector would have the capacity or commercial offering to keep second and third owners of a vehicle returning to them for service and maintenance.
“2023 might not bring the problems for the independents that some would have us believe, it may well provide those independents prepared to invest in data and equipment with the opportunity of a lifetime.”
Related: Block Exemption is useless if motorists are unaware of it
The trade body adds that while access to data could be problematic, it expects third party providers to “step in to fill any void”.
When it comes to parts supply, the IGA said this too could be aided by third “party providers or OEM’s wishing to expand their market share” and engage directly with the independent sector.
For further information about the IGA, select ‘more details’ below.
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