Article contributed by Repairify
In the automotive industry, there are numerous rules and regulations that need to be adhered to, whether you are a car manufacturer, a bodyshop or a technician. The latest regulation to be introduced to the industry is SERMI. Before we dive into what SERMI is, let’s remind ourselves of how it came into being.
SERMI was implemented after legislation was introduced by the EU parliament (European Directive (EU) No 2018/858) meaning that vehicle manufacturers are required to provide unrestricted and standardised access to repair and maintenance information (RMI) to independent operators (IOs) and remote service suppliers (RSS).
As a result, access to security-related RMI (Repair and Maintenance Information), which also includes diagnostic tools, may be subject to specific security standards and certificates.
The legislation specifically defines security-related RMI as information, software, functions and services necessary for repairing and maintaining vehicle features that prevent theft, enable vehicle tracking, and facilitate recovery. In layman’s terms this means to undertake certain actions or access certain manufacturer information (e.g. relating to keys, immobilers, programming of certain modules, repairers will need SERMI certification)
The UK and what it means
As the industry is aware, it was launched in October 2023, with Sweden being the first country to implement it. From there, we have seen Norway, Finland and Denmark introduce it alongside other European countries, and now it is the turn of the UK.
The UK version of the scheme will be going live shortly, probably in Q3 2025. However, as the UK is no longer part of the European Union, the scheme will be voluntary for OEs to register in the UK.
Some regulations that require manufacturers to opt in or out, often spark controversy among them. However, this is not the case with SERMI, and based on current indications, UK vehicle manufacturers largely support its introduction, which is always a good sign.
Repairer registration
On the repairer side of the industry, businesses must also register with SERMI, and the reason is straightforward. Repairers need the appropriate credentials from SERMI to access the RMI, particularly for security and theft-related information. If a repairer is using a Remote Service Solution (RSS) such as Repairify, both the business and its employees must also obtain SERMI credentials to operate the tool.
In addition, to be registered to SERMI, both the repairer and technician need to meet certain criteria (ie DBS check etc), which is the norm, and like any regulation and scheme, it is important that everyone, no matter how big or small the business is, to be compliant. To ensure compliance there will be a national body in each country that audits the repairer regularly to ensure all the necessary paperwork is in order.
Awareness to prepare
SERMI is now coming to the UK and we need to start raising awareness so that shops can start to be prepared. Whilst it is a new process and new technology, it is designed ot be a good thing, and to protect the industry and consumers alike. Ensuring security related repairs are performed by vetted professionals who meet strict standards ultimately designed to combat car theft – a costly issue that affects the UK and needs to be addressed.
Further details of the scheme can be found by visiting: https://independentgarageassociation.co.uk/trade-topics/sermi/
