The independent repairer's view point - Vehicle Service and Repair Conference

The VACC-organised Vehicle Service and Repair Information Conference took place on September 6 (see separate story).
Mark Awramenko from Highton Automotive represented the views of the independent repairer. The following are excerpts from his well delivered presentation.
“I consider my business as one that is indicative of the automotive repair industry. Technicians require up to date information to effectively and correctly diagnose and repair the vehicles of today. In my business, we are experiencing more than ever issues with gaining access to this information. The issue is that some of the information is just not available in Australia from manufacturers or their distributors. The situation restricts the ability for consumers to choose between service centres. A lack of information also challenges the independent repairers ability to comply with safety and repair requirements as set out by the Australian design rules and manufacturers' specifications.
In my 35 years in the trade I have seen dramatic technological advances in vehicle power, fuel efficiency, emission and safety systems. The technology in vehicles has and will continue to increase exponentially. Integrated vehicle function and safety systems, voice recognition, telematics, electric vehicles - this trend is not going away.”
Awramenko showed the results of a 2010 survey undertaken by 700 Victorian repairers about the negative effects of the lack of technical information.
“Some may believe that the repair information is already available, but the information required and the ability to source this information varies wildly between manufacturer to manufacturer and even between model to model.”
He went on to demonstrate this by saying that an investigation into what information isn't currently available in Australia revealed there was no information for:
17.6% of passenger vehicles
44 % of the SUV market
13.2% of the light commercial vehicle sector

“What if you crash your new, shiny car? Just take it to a body repairer,” Awramenko continued. “The quality, safety and integrity of any repair is directly linked to the information and repair procedures that may or may not be available. Whether to cut, weld, bond or repair is integral to the functions of  body repairers every day. With the introduction of new metals, new materials and active safety systems getting manufacturers specifications and repair procedures is vital.”

He went on to say that without this information staff safety can be compromised. Also so can   the  consumers' ability  to maintain their vehicle, they should have people to assist them who are not hampered by a lack of information.

Awramenko also pointed out a large number of people don't live anywhere near a dealer – so how do they get their vehicles fixed if independents don't have the information necessary..

“The future of the independent repair industry is directly linked to being able to access service and repair information on a daily basis.”