A defining moment as SERMI launches for independent repairers
1 April 2026 
Among all the news stories that will need to be taken with a pinch of salt today, one thing we can be certain of is that SERMI is now live.
In what the Independent Garage Association (IGA) is calling a defining moment for the independent garage sector, from today, independent garages that meet the required standards can access security-related repair and maintenance information through a secure, manufacturer-recognised framework.
The scheme goes live with backing from 22 brands now committed in the UK, including Jaguar, Land Rover, Ford and Peugeot. However, there are notable omissions, with VAG brands currently not signed up.
That said, the level of support gained at launch ensures that SERMI is operational from day one and meaningful in practice.
Commenting on the launch, Stuart James, Chief Executive of the IGA, said: “Today matters. This is the point where years of work, challenge and persistence deliver something tangible for independent garages across the UK.
“SERMI changes the position of the independent sector. It gives professional, compliant businesses access to the information they need to repair modern vehicles properly, safely, and legitimately.
“It also sends a clear message about the capability and standards within our sector. Garages that achieve SERMI approval are demonstrating that they meet a recognised, trusted benchmark, one that is supported by manufacturers and understood across Europe.”
As vehicles have become more complex and increasingly governed by security-controlled systems, access to critical information has become essential for carrying out complete and professional repairs. SERMI establishes, for the first time, a trusted and regulated route to that access, supporting both consumer choice and the independent sector.
Many repairers are still assessing what SERMI means for their individual operations, particularly those working across multiple brands, where manufacturer interpretations of ‘security-related’ components can vary.
There are options, however, as Phil Peace, Managing Director of Repairify, explained: “Repairers may choose to become fully certified, work with SERMI-approved remote service providers, or utilise mobile technicians who hold the necessary credentials. This creates a tiered ecosystem that allows businesses to adapt in a way that suits their operational model.
“I would encourage repairers to assess their current capabilities, understand where SERMI applies to their work, and take the necessary steps to ensure continued access to essential services.”
With the scheme now live, attention turns to adoption. Garages that see the benefits in full certification are being encouraged to begin the onboarding process if they haven’t already, with requirements including DBS checks and application lead times forming part of the approval process.
The IGA has committed to continuing to support the sector as SERMI becomes embedded, ensuring garages are informed, prepared, and able to take full advantage of what is now in place.
Click here for more information about SERMI