UK SMR September - October Brochure_

MOT WAVE

RIDING THE MOT WAVE

UTILISE YOUR GARAGE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

MOT patterns have changed over the last couple of years, predominantly due to the pandemic that swept the world in 2020. Vehicle owners in the UK were given a six month extension meaning that the traditional MOT start in March has shifted. What does this mean? In the second half of 2022, MOT volumes are predicted to increase to around 54% with September, October and November being the busiest periods. It is expected that these three months will generate approximately 30% of this predicted volume.

Using Garage Management Systems (GMS) like CarSys will allow you to manage the overdue workload currently within the UK car parc. GMS' systems like CarSys have a direct feed into a vehicle’s MOT history: this can be a vital tool. Looking back through your customers previous MOT history may also flag if they had any advisories that need rectifying this time round. Depending on the use of the vehicle over the past year there may well be additional work that you may have to factor into your diary.

The graph below demonstrates the surge in MOTs that is likely to hit this year, with the dotted line showing the peak in September. This represents more than 1m more MOTs than in 2019.

Don’t forget to use tools like social media. Having a social presence will also help to boost your reputation and support customers who are looking around for a reputable garage to book an MOT.

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Workshop ready? With the changing MOT pattern, ensuring you have enough staff to cope with the additional demand may be tricky, however, we can help. Investing in CPD training will provide you with a long-term fix. Our award winning training scheme can get your staff on the right MOT courses at a location near you! If it’s a top-up course you’re looking for, we also have them available through our LKQ Academy platform.

AWARDS WINNER 2022 TRAINING SCHEME OF THE YEAR

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Equipment ready? As a trusted partner to your business, LKQ Euro Car Parts have everything you need to get the right products and services so that you are ready to meet the MOT demand. Our latest Workshop Solutions brochure can help kit your garage out and if it’s servicing you require, then give your local Account Manager a call who can help with service packages.

Is your workshop prepared? With the expected surge in MOTs, a planned workload and well-prepared workforce have never been more important. Scheduling work now will help you determine whether you need extended opening hours or additional technicians for jobs. Don’t wait for customers to call you; now is the time to pick up the phone, call your customers and book work in. You could also do this by text or email – ultimately managing your diary will be key.

Have you tried Autotech Recruit? Autotech Recruit is a specialist recruitment company supplying quality technical staff - both temporary and permanent - to the automotive industry since 2010. Autotech Recruit have been keeping workshops running for a UK-wide network of dealerships, national retail groups, independent garages, bodyshop's and government organisations. They can provide your business with fully trained technicians that have over 5 years experience, who are either specialist trained or master tech trained. Features and Benefits ■ Experienced technicians available to suit your workshop requirements ■ Nationwide pool of talent with over 5 years experience

■ No need to turn jobs and repairs down, with being able to recruit available technicians ■ Minimise downtime with ramps and keep working moving through the workshop ■ Improved efficiency and productivity.