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Workshop access to data is changing. If you re-code vehicle security-related components and software, then SERMI will offer a streamlined approach.

It’s a big change in standards and one that you need to be prepared for.

SERMI stands for security-related repair and maintenance information, and is the scheme for the accreditation, approval and authorisation to access such sensitive details. The European system provides secure access to car manufacturers’ data for independent workshops and their employees.  

First introduced in Sweden in October 2023, with a gradual roll-out across Europe, the scheme is a big shake-up of the industry that puts security front and centre for  very business. In short, it’s incredibly important and something that you need to know about.

Are you sitting comfortably?

Then we’ll explain. In simple terms, SERMI involves the granting of secure access to security-related repair information, such as keys and ignition systems, for independent workshops and their technicians. It brings together a number of bodies, including vehicle manufacturers, independent operators (workshops), remote service suppliers and their employees.  

The scheme is being rolled out to help streamline access to information using a single system rather than individual manufacturer certifications, which increases security for both manufacturer data and vehicle repairs.  

SERMI acts as an authorisation trail and accreditation to keep track of who’s doing what to what vehicle relating to vehicle security, such as key coding, software  updates and the coding of new components. It’s assumed this will soon include anything that isn’t ring-fenced under European On-Board Diagnostics (EOBD) and emissions.  

Ultimately, SERMI was created to protect vehicle owners and cut down on theft and the dangers of security issues. It will also make it more difficult for unqualified people to work on vehicles, which should raise the standard of vehicle repairs and protect the consumer to create voluntary self-regulation within the industry.

Another level of security  

SERMI is designed so that the independent workshop and at least one employee will be registered with the scheme, enabling them to be checked during the sign-in process. This gives the workshop entry to a single portal that allows them to access

the different vehicle manufacturer portals. Streamlining the process in this way will make it easier to navigate and maintain, since having a single account and payment method is more efficient than having to maintain several different ones.  

Any scheme that helps to ease the burden of repairing vehicles can only be a good thing, giving the correct tools to the correct people. It also provides a better environment for the motorist, ensuring they have a choice of where to take their vehicles.

What it means for the UK

While SERMI is mandated across Europe, as the UK is not part of the European Union, it had the choice whether to opt in or not, and the UK made the choice to voluntarily opt in. Joining a scheme like SERMI makes perfect sense.

The UK operates the SERMI scheme through RMI Standards and Certification (RMISC). Businesses need to know that SERMI applies to independent garages rather than those directly affiliated with manufacturers. It’s also a centralised approval system, so one SERMI certificate grants access to information from various manufacturers instead of needing individual approvals.

The application process is relatively straightforward: garages apply for a SERMI certificate through RMISC, a process that involves background checks and document verification. RMISC then conducts two audits, one planned and one surprise, during the certificate’s five-year validity.  

Once a business has a certificate, there are significant savings in time and money thanks to easier access to manufacturers’ information, but it also demonstrates high security standards to customers.

Without access to SERMI, workshops and independent operators are going to be left behind. As vehicles become more connected and reliant on data and security features, more repairs will require access to data behind the SERMI wall. Without a

certificate, workshops could end up having to turn business away.

Why take part?

Since vehicles now require data, information and codes to repair them, the days of simply changing a part and sending the customer on their way are long gone. Just to wind back a brake calliper on some models requires access to security-related data.

Getting access to these systems has become increasingly complicated, especially for workshops that work on multiple vehicle marques, mainly due to the cost and administrative burden of maintaining access to all the manufacturers’ platforms.

SERMI should provide a simpler platform to improve access for workshops, thereby reducing the admin burden and saving money. However, there is also the possibility that insurance companies will change their business policies to take account of SERMI, increasing the likelihood that businesses and workshops not signed up to the scheme won’t be covered, in addition to protecting manufacturer’s warranties.

The introduction of SERMI is a big shift for the industry and one that spans Europe. But while it may seem intimidating, it should make life simpler and more secure.

Details of the European SERMI Association can be found at www.vehicleSERMI.eu

This is an edited extract from IMI's new MotorPro magazine, received free as part of IMI membership.