IMI calls for mechanic licensing in 2015 General Election manifestos

IMI calls for mechanic licensing in 2015 General Election manifestos

IMI, the professional body for the motor trade industry, has called on political parties to make licensing car mechanics an election issue in 2015.

The organisation wants all the major parties to include the subject within their election manifestos in the build up to May’s voting. At present, the government does not regulate car mechanics or dealers to ensure they have the necessary skills to perform their jobs, although 70 per cent of drivers incorrectly think this does happen.

The change, should it be introduced following the 2015 General Election, would mean individuals or businesses selling and repairing cars will have to gain special certification to do their jobs. This would need to be added to things like obtaining road risks insurance or motor trade insurance on the list of things these businesses must do if they are to operate within the parameters of the law.

IMI states that at present customers are ignorant to the dangers involved with choosing a garage, as some might not be fit for purpose.

Steve Nash, CEO of the IMI, explained: "The majority of motorists choose a garage or mechanic without sufficient information to verify their competence to do the job. The proliferation of hybrids and complex driver assist systems has already increased the skills requirements for effective and safe working on modern vehicles.

"All the major players in our sector are in favour of licensing technicians and this year we are going to make it an election issue for the whole industry."

Research by IMI has shown that 90 per cent of businesses in this sector are in favour of licensing being introduced.