SERMI is no longer a future concept for independent garages as it moves steadily towards operational reality in the UK, with a defined route to participate now in place. But is the aftermarket ready?
For workshops, this reportedly marks a turning point. Functions such as key programming, immobiliser resets, secure ECU replacement and other security-critical operations are increasingly being protected by formal access controls. For independent garages, SERMI offers a route to continue carrying out this work but only if they meet the required standards.
For many businesses, this represents both a significant opportunity and a fresh set of responsibilities.
In the UK, the Independent Garage Association (IGA), working alongside industry partners, has established a national framework aligned with SERMI principles. This creates a single accreditation route for independent garages and their technicians to access security-related manufacturer systems, replacing the need to navigate multiple OEM-specific approval processes.
In simple terms, without this route, many independents risk being locked out of an increasingly important category of repair and service work as vehicle security becomes more tightly controlled. With it, accredited garages can continue to meet customer expectations, from diagnostics and module replacement to key and immobiliser programming.
While the framework is now defined, readiness across the sector varies. Some garages are actively preparing for accreditation, reviewing their systems and documentation. Others are only just becoming aware of what SERMI will require in terms of process, compliance and investment.
Access to security-related vehicle data brings with it real risk. Modern vehicles are software-driven and connected, and every secure login represents a potential point of vulnerability.
For independent garages, this puts cyber security firmly on the operational agenda. Vehicle data has commercial and criminal value, and workshops with weak IT or network controls can become targets. A compromised system could expose customer data, enable key cloning or create wider security risks.
If something goes wrong, responsibility is likely to rest with the garage. Insurance policies may not cover cyber incidents if reasonable safeguards cannot be demonstrated, and the reputational damage from a breach could be severe for a business built on trust and local relationships.
As SERMI access becomes more widely available, cyber security is no longer optional. Secure networks, controlled user access, strong authentication and basic cyber awareness among staff are essential for any workshop carrying out security-related work.
Accreditation alone does not make a garage capable of carrying out security-critical repairs. These jobs demand advanced diagnostics, software competence and confidence working within manufacturer platforms.
With skills shortages already affecting the aftermarket, there is said to be a real risk some businesses will gain access to data but struggle to use it efficiently or safely. Without investment in training and the right tooling, security-related work can quickly become slow, risky and frustrating for both technicians and customers.
Laurence Abbott, Chief Technology Officer at Autotech Connect, said: “SERMI is an important step forward for independent garages, but access to data is only part of the picture. “Garages also need the right cyber safeguards, processes and technician capability in place. The businesses that take a joined-up approach now will be in a stronger position as vehicle security systems continue to evolve.”
