IGA to launch security information portal for independent garages

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is launching GarageSafe this year to establish and maintain access to security level vehicle information for independent garages.

GarageSafe is based on America’s successful National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF), which already has security and key coding information for many vehicle manufacturers. The IGA is bringing this online gateway to the UK with the intention of supplying information to certified garages.

This will be complemented by a recently introduced “right to repair” bill in America that will ensure independent garages have the same levels of access to repair and maintenance information as dealerships, providing consumers with more options to choose where to go for repairs.

Stuart James, IGA Chief Executive comments: “Securing access to information for the independent sector has been a very long drawn-out challenge, and it is now more important than ever with advances in technology that the independent sector can continue to access this information.

“Consumers must have the freedom to choose where to maintain and repair their vehicles and GarageSafe provides a pioneering solution, taking another step forward in quality and reassurance for consumers who choose a reputable independent garage.

“America’s new bill is a step in the right direction. President Biden is making consumer choice a priority which cements everything the IGA is aiming to achieve with GarageSafe and NASTF.”

GarageSafe will be launching in the UK and available to IGA members later this year.