SERMI Goes Live in the UK: A New Era for Independent Garages

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) has confirmed that the European SERMI scheme will officially go live in the UK on 1st April, marking a historic breakthrough for independent garages nationwide.

After 17 years of persistent effort, advocacy, and collaboration, this launch represents the moment when independent garages can finally access secure, security-related vehicle repair and maintenance information through the SERMI framework, unlocking opportunities that were previously difficult to clarify.

The UK is the only country outside the European Union to achieve both approval and implementation of SERMI, cementing the IGA’s role as the leading representative of independent garages and fair competition in an increasingly complex and competitive automotive landscape.

SERMI provides a trusted, secure, and manufacturer-recognised route for independent garages to access data that is essential for working on modern vehicles, including systems relating to security, immobilisation, and advanced electronics. As vehicle technology evolves, this access is critical to maintaining consumer choice and the long-term viability of the independent garage sector.

The IGA has collaborated closely with the UK Government, European garage bodies, vehicle manufacturers, and the European SERMI Board. This included securing access to the European SERMI Trust Centre to meet UK-specific regulatory and operational requirements.

Stuart James, Chief Executive of the Independent Garage Association, said, ‘Reaching full approval was a landmark achievement, but announcing the go-live date is the moment when 17 years of determination finally comes to life for independent garages. From the 1st April, eligible repairers can operate within a trusted, recognised framework that puts independent garages back on a level playing field.

As the SERMI scheme embeds itself within the UK, SERMI is more than access to information. It is a declaration of integrity, capability, and the future of independent repair. Today, independent garages can demonstrate they meet the highest standards, and their role in the UK motor industry has never been stronger.’

The IGA will continue to support garages through onboarding and is advancing further initiatives focused on secure gateway access and cyber security, ensuring the UK remains at the forefront of servicing and repairing next-generation vehicles.