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Category 1


Whats going on at the RMI Academy!

See latest updates!
Threads
21
Latest post
06/12/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Whatsapp platform now Available!

New way of getting in touch!
Threads
1
Latest post
23/11/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Labour times

Wanted to create a place where members can discuss labour times, having had multiple members be unhappy about labour times. It could be a good idea for people to discuss the good and bad labour times they have encountered over the years.
Threads
2
Latest post
03/01/2023 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Happy new year!

Happy new year to all!
Threads
1
Latest post
03/01/2023 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline


The Lounge


Forum Rules and Instructions

No Reply Topics
Threads
5
Latest post
13/05/2013 - IGAAdmin

IGA British Independent Garage Of The Year 2022

Garage of the year winners
Threads
1
Latest post
23/08/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

QUIZ!

Just for fun
Threads
8
Latest post
03/11/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

MOT

Discussions all to do with MOTs
Threads
21
Latest post
25/01/2023 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

ADAS Systems

ADAS systems and equipment
Threads
1
Latest post
09/09/2021 - Craig Scragg - RMI Tech helpline

Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Information

Forum for all general electric and hybrid vehicle information
Threads
3
Latest post
22/11/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

IGA Products & Services

Ask questions about IGA Products and Services
Threads
3
Latest post
11/08/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Introductions

Who you are and what do you do?
Threads
8
Latest post
11/08/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Scams and Sharp Practices

Share your warnings about scams - Help other garages to avoid being caught out
Threads
3
Latest post
10/08/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Apprenticeships, Education and Training

Share your apprenticeship experiences or ask questions about training here
Threads
2
Latest post
11/08/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Product Reviews

Use this section to review equipment you have bought for use in your garage
Threads
3
Latest post
20/11/2017 - Jobsons

Diagnostic Tools & Equipment

Threads
7
Latest post
19/11/2019 - MUHAMMAD IMRAN

Legal / Construction and Use

Threads
5
Latest post
09/09/2014 - IGAAdmin

Other Garage Tools/Equipment

Threads
4
Latest post
10/10/2017 - 870047


General Technical Queries


Air Conditioning

See latest updates!
Threads
1
Latest post
11/08/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Manufacturer Website Access

Including Digital Service Records
Threads
16
Latest post
29/09/2021 - Craig Scragg - RMI Tech helpline

Alarms/Immobiliser and other Security

Threads
3
Latest post
23/03/2017 - Graham Goode Motors

Body and Trim Repairs

Threads
2
Latest post
31/10/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Brakes, Wheels and Tyres

Threads
3
Latest post
21/10/2014 - Nathan Hinks

Electrics - Starters, Alternators etc

Threads
6
Latest post
17/01/2023 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Lighting

Headlamp Bulb Changing
Threads
2
Latest post
01/11/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Engine (Mechanical)

Threads
5
Latest post
12/01/2016 - Graham Goode Motors

Engine Management

(Fault and Ignition Issues - Fault Codes and Diagnostics)
Threads
14
Latest post
22/10/2017 - Guest

Radios, Navigation, Towbars and other Accessories

Threads
3
Latest post
04/01/2023 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Steering and Suspension

Threads
3
Latest post
18/04/2013 - Guest

Transmission - Clutch, Gearbox and final drive

Threads
6
Latest post
25/10/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Everything Else

Glass, Exhausts etc
Threads
5
Latest post
22/11/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline


Manufacturer Specfic Questions


Chrysler

Various Models
Threads
0
Latest post

Ford

Fiesta, KA, B-Max, Focus, C-Max, Mondeo, S-Max, Kuga, Galaxy and all things Ford!
Threads
17
Latest post
29/06/2015 - ANDY COATES

Vauxhall

Agila, Adam, Corsa, Astra, Meriva, Ampera, Zafira, Cascada, Insignia, Mokka, Antara and all things Vauxhall!
Threads
16
Latest post
03/10/2018 - 870047

Volkswagen

Polo, Golf, Beetle, Passat, Scirocco, Tiguan, Eos, Jetta, Touran, Sharan, Tourareg, Phaeton and all things Volkswagen!
Threads
9
Latest post
08/01/2014 - IGAAdmin

Jaguar

F-type, XJ, XK, XF and all things Jaguar!
Threads
7
Latest post
22/06/2013 - crews

BMW

1 Series, 3 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, X1, X3, X5, X6, Z4 and all things BMW!
Threads
10
Latest post
23/01/2023 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Audi

A1, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, Q3, Q5, Q7, TT, R8, RS and all things Audi!
Threads
5
Latest post
10/06/2015 - mike scotney

Nissan

Leaf, Pixo, Micra, Note, Juke, Qashqai, X-Trail, Pathfinder, Navara, 370Z, GT-R and all things Nissan!
Threads
6
Latest post
21/03/2013 - IGAAdmin

Peugeot

107, 207, 208, 2008, 308, 3008, 508, 5008 and all things Peugeot!
Threads
6
Latest post
30/01/2015 - Guest

Mercedes

A-Class, B-Class, C-Class, CL-Class, CLS-Class, E-Class, G-Class, GL-Class, M-Class, R-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, SLK- Class and all things Mercedes!
Threads
2
Latest post
17/01/2023 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Toyota

iQ, Aygo, Yaris, Verso, Auris, Avensis, GT86, Prius, RAV4, Land Cruiser, Hilux and all things Toyota!
Threads
5
Latest post
31/10/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Citroen

C-ZERO, C1, C3, Berlingo, Picasso, C4, C5 and all things Citroen!
Threads
6
Latest post
29/05/2013 - Guest

Renault

Twizy, Twingo, Clio, Megane, Scenic, Fluence, Kangoo and all things Renault!
Threads
14
Latest post
31/10/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Hyundai

i10, i20, i30, Veloseter, i40, ix35, Santa Fe and all things Hyundai!
Threads
2
Latest post
02/11/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Kia

Piccanto, Rio, Soul, Venga, Cee'd, Optima, Sportage, Serento and all things Kia!
Threads
5
Latest post
12/06/2013 - Nigel Mander

Honda

Accord, Civic, CR-V, CR-Z, Insight, Jazz and all things Honda!
Threads
2
Latest post
21/03/2013 - IGAAdmin

Mini

Hatch, Coupe, Roadster, Convertible, Clubman, Clubvan, Countryman, Paceman and all things Mini!
Threads
3
Latest post
21/03/2013 - IGAAdmin

Skoda

Citigo, Fabia, Roomster, Rapid, Octavia, Superb, Yeti and all things Skoda!
Threads
3
Latest post
02/11/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Fiat

500, Panda, Punto, Bravo and all things Fiat!
Threads
6
Latest post
14/09/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Land Rover

Defender, Freelander, Evoque, Discover, Range Rover and all things Land Rover!
Threads
8
Latest post
06/08/2018 - alanmk2

Seat

Mii, Ibiza, Leon, Altea, Exeo, Alhambra and all things Seat!
Threads
2
Latest post
21/03/2013 - IGAAdmin

Volvo

C30, C70, V70, V60, V40, S80, S60, XC90, XC70, XC60 and all things Volvo!
Threads
2
Latest post
31/10/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline

Other European

Threads
4
Latest post
21/03/2013 - IGAAdmin

Other Japanese

Threads
5
Latest post
21/03/2013 - IGAAdmin

All other Brands

Threads
7
Latest post
31/10/2022 - James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline




Recent Posts


25/01/2023
Topic:
Proposed Changes By The DVSA

James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
Administrator
Posts: 57
Please find a link to a petition opposed to the current changes below
Do not extend the period before a vehicle’s first MOT to 4 years - Petitions (parliament.uk)
If you do not want the extension please sign this petition.
23/01/2023
Topic:
Proposed Changes By The DVSA

James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
Administrator
Posts: 57
Hello everyone,
As you are well aware the DVSA announced last week that a much needed review of the manual and practises surrounding MOTs was to take place.
Following the review they identified a number of areas where significant changes were to be made. What do you all think about the proposed changes?
How will this affect garages?
Proposed changes to make MOTs fit for the future - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) if you haven't read the proposed changes!
23/01/2023
Topic:
BMW E87 DME Programing

James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
Administrator
Posts: 57
Hello!
Just looking into this it appears there is some coding to carry out see below for DME replacement.

Coding and programming to be carried out of the below control units.
Carry out adjustment of following control units:
-
EWS (electronic immobilizer)
-
DME (Digital Motor Electronics)
For the injectors they need adjusting per injector. The adjustment value needs to be entered according to the installation location.



I know it is an old post, just wanted to reply as per repair procedure from BMW.
17/01/2023
Topic:
Digital Service Records

James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
Administrator
Posts: 57
So Mercedes have an online portal for updating Digital Service Records.
We have a user guide available in the members area under DIGITAL SERVICE RECORDS IGA | Member Area | IGA (independentgarageassociation.co.uk)
So that means you won't need to download the application and convert into a different language etc.
Saving time which is always good!
Let me know how you have found this!Cool
https://b2bconnect.mercedes-benz.com/gb?_ga=2.265609739.52616809.1665401435-1086673663.1664890360#home
17/01/2023
Topic:
vw polo 1600 gti sept 2000 front and rear wipers staying on intermitantly

James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
Administrator
Posts: 57
Hello
I know this is an old post but thought i would reply to shed some light as I've experienced a very similar scenario on the TECH HELPLINE.

So the vehicle had an rear wiper issue, the rear indicators would flash every time the boot was opened and then the vehicle wouldn't start. The garage had replaced the BCM and problem solved. The customer opened the boot then the same problem occured. After carrying out wiring checks, they found an open circuit within the wiring towards the rear wiper motor. What was happening was the vehicle was earthing on the broken wire and causing a back probe to the BCM wiping it out every time. There is also a technical service bulletin for water ingress due to the incorrect design of the rear washer jet which can get into the boot lock. To fix this a one way valve type washer jet is fitted so the water cannot come back out.
06/01/2023
Topic:
Annual Training!

James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
Administrator
Posts: 57
The time has come to be looking at booking your annual training with us.
Leading up to the cut off we are extremely busy due to people leaving it to the last minute.
Get your annual training booked in to avoid disappointment.
Call 01788 538399 Alternatively visit RMI Academy | Contact Us (rmitrainingacademy.co.uk) For all your training needs.
edited by James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline on 09/01/2023
04/01/2023
Topic:
DS3 Radio cutting out and restarting, some functions not working also.

James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
Administrator
Posts: 57
Hello all
I have experienced a DS3 having various electrical issues, mainly that the media screen will randomly reset and take a little while to kick back in.
There is an update available for SMEG units done by the manufacturer. This was common across most PSA vehicle that had that system.
03/01/2023
Topic:
Happy new year!

James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
Administrator
Posts: 57
From all of us at the RMI & IGA we would like to wish you a happy and successful 2023 fingers crossed
edited by James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline on 04/01/2023
03/01/2023
Topic:
Labour times

James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
Administrator
Posts: 57
Happy new year all!
I have created a document attached to the thread, regarding varying labour times on 4 different vehicles.
These would be the common jobs expected to be carried out on each of these vehicles.
Let me know what you guys think smile
20/12/2022
Topic:
Unachievable labour times!

James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
Administrator
Posts: 57
In some cases labour times are achievable, however in the instance they're not it puts pressure on the technician to be able to achieve this repair time. If the times are not achievable this can put pressure on colleagues and potentially customers if they're waiting around. Ton of Bricks

That is why it is very important to quote correctly for each repair. In some cases unforeseen circumstances can occur such as tool breaking/Special tools, bolts being seized, parts incorrect the list goes on.

This topic is to encourage garages to share their experiences of unachievable labour times set out by the manufacturer, thus misquoting and the age old term Working for free coming into account. We are all in this together any help is much appreciated!
edited by James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline on 20/12/2022
06/12/2022
Topic:
Brand new academy opening in Cheltenham!

James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
Administrator
Posts: 57
The RMI academy are delighted to announce the opening of our new academy located in Cheltenham.

The new location joins established facilities in Runcorn, Southam, Lincoln and Winchester, and is open to all garages in the motor trade. Preferential course prices are available for RMI members.

Courses begin in February and are available to book now by calling 01788 538 399. Cheltenham Course Calendar | RMI Academy (rmitrainingacademy.co.uk)


The courses currently offered with dates are as follows; MOT 4&7 Tester training, MOT manager training, Level 3 hybrid vehicle repair.


RMI Training Centre Cheltenham, 41 Lansdown Industrial Estate, Cheltenham, GL51 8PS https://www.rmitrainingacademy.co.uk/getting-here-cheltenham
30/11/2022
Topic:
DVSA services – industrial action by the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) Union

James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
Administrator
Posts: 57
The following message has gone out from the DVSA:


"Industrial action involving DVSA members will take place over a 6-week period from Tuesday 13 December 2022.
For the latest information on when and how our services will be affected, please visit our dedicated GOV.UK page.


The strike action will affect some:


  • driving instructor tests and checks
  • MOT tester demonstration tests
  • DVSA’s customer service centre
  • MOTs for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), buses and trailers
  • vehicle approvals examinations


The strike action will not affect:


  • theory tests
  • MOTs for cars, vans and motorcycles "
23/11/2022
Topic:
Technical helpline VIA Whatsapp!

James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
Administrator
Posts: 57
You can now contact the technical helpline via whatsapp!Woo Hoo!

We are delighted to now offer this service to all members, please include;
your member number/Garage postcode, Vehicle registration, Fault codes. If the query is relating to Digital service records or Mot queries, please include that in the message.

07920799031 is the number to message on Whatsapp.
22/11/2022
Topic:
Petrol and Diesel Ban 2030

James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
Administrator
Posts: 57
Euro 7 has been announced today, this is potentially a big step towards the ruling 2030, the requirements for NOx will be upped to 60mg/km for petrol and diesel which was previously 80mg/km. Which is going to be very difficult for large goods vehicles.
22/11/2022
Topic:
Euro 7!

James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
Administrator
Posts: 57
With the recent announcement of plans for euro 7 to go ahead, what are your views on this?
Is it the end of Petrol and Diesel powered vehicles?
What does it mean?
Any questions feel free to ask below!
18/11/2022
Topic:
The need for Hybrid/EV qualifications!

James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
Administrator
Posts: 57
With the increase of new and used Hybrid/EV on the market it is an ideal time to become familiar with the repairs and procedures surrounding these types of vehicles.

Below are some facts and figures around hybrid and electric vehicles which will make you really consider whether not having the ability to work on these types of vehicles in the business armoury a positive or a negative.

In 2021 there was a 74% increase in the annual sales of Electric vehicles compared to the previous year. As of the end of October 2022 there were more than 1,000,000 plug-in vehicles with nearly 590,000 BEVs and 430,000 PHEVs registered (Next green car)
With an ever-growing market year on year, It's the way the industry is going.

With a lot of fleet companies seeking on ways to reduce their carbon footprints, they are introducing a lot of fully electric vehicles into their fleets. A fantastic opportunity for any EV workshop that deal with fleet vehicles.

There are 1.8 million electric vehicles (EVs) in Britain, according to government data from June 2022, this is approximately 4.5% of all cars in the Uk registered. That doesn't seem like a lot but compared to the 400 electric vehicles that were registered on the roads in 2000 to the 62,800 that were on the roads in 2009 which is a massive 15,700% increase. From 2010 approximately 83900 to 758,200 which again is a massive increase of 904% with again 2022 being the best year to date for electric vehicle sales these numbers are only going to increase. (The eco experts)

Looking at the increase in the market, it is only going to get larger and larger, taking advantage of learning how to work on these vehicles safely and efficiently is the future and is a very good option to have. Simple repairs that require powering down of the system not every garage will be able to carry out causing them to lose the customer. Is this something you want to benefit from? Please call our rugby office to discuss the Hybrid/EV level 3 course we currently offer at our academies.

RMI Academy | Electric/Hybrid Vehicle Repair Level 3 (rmitrainingacademy.co.uk)

We also offer a E-learning option. RMI Academy | Electric/Hybrid Vehicle Repair Level 3 (rmitrainingacademy.co.uk)

For course availability and locations please either fill in a course interest log, or call the office to discuss availability on (01788) 538399
edited by James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline on 22/11/2022
11/11/2022
Topic:
Availability at our academies!!!

James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
Administrator
Posts: 57
Take advantage of the spaces on our courses, book now to avoid disappointment!

Availability is as follows.

MOT manager training

Runcorn 17/08/2023
Southam 27/07/2023
Lincoln 01/08/2023
Winchester 31/07/2023
Cheltenham 14/08/2023

Mot 4&7 Tester training

Southam 31/07/2023
Runcorn 07/08/2023
Lincoln 01/08/2023
Winchester 07/08/2023
Cheltenham 07/08/2023

Level 3 hybrid Vehicle Repair (heavily subsidised)

Winchester 14/08/2023
Southam 29/08/2023
Runcorn 18/09/2023
Cheltenham 02/08/2023


Level 4 Hybrid

Southam 08/08/2023

Annual Training Academy

Runcorn 11/09/2023
Southam 04/08/2023
Winchester 25/08/2023
Cheltenham 18/08/2023

Vehicle Technician Accredited Assessment (VTAA)

Southam 07/08/2023
Runcorn 29/08/2023


Other courses are available on request such as F-gas/ADAS/NAMA courses
If these are of interest to you, please contact our office on 01788 538339.
RMI Academy | Contact Us (rmitrainingacademy.co.uk)
edited by James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline on 14/07/2023
11/11/2022
Topic:
MOT Centre Management Refresher Course

James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
Administrator
Posts: 57
We are delighted to announce a MOT Centre Management Refresher Course Available at all of our academies!


The course information is as follows;


Course Overview This 1-day RMISC certified course gives any AEDMs, AEDs and Site Managers the skills and information to update their knowledge to ensure they remain compliant with the DVSA's rules and regulations.

The course is suitable for anyone that helps with the day to day running of the MOT Vehicle testing station, including staff that currently hold the AEDM, AED, Site Manager, or admin role.

Please be aware this course is designed to refresh candidates, and is not the qualification required by the DVSA.
Course Structure The course covers:
  • Reference material
  • Authorised Examiner
  • Roles
  • Facilities and Equipment
  • Annual training Requirements
  • Security
  • Discipline
  • Updates to the MOT Scheme
​Price RMI Members: £195 + VAT Non-RMI Members: £245 + VAT Lunch, tea and coffee will be provided. To book this course, contact us here or call us on 01788 538 399

RMI Academy | MOT Centre Management (rmitrainingacademy.co.uk)
edited by James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline on 11/11/2022
07/11/2022
Topic:
Heavily subsidised Hybrid/EV level 3!

James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
Administrator
Posts: 57
Time is running out to take advantage of the heavily subsidised Hybrid/EV Level 3 training


The IGA is offering Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Repair Level 3 courses to members at a heavily subsidised rate of £250 + VAT until the end of 2022, to help your garage meet the growing demand for EV servicing and repairs. This course normally costs £600 + VAT for members, saving you 60%.


This 3 day course covers the technology associated with the present generation of HEVs, and focuses on gaining a thorough understanding of how the electric vehicle functions and the variation of electric vehicle types currently available. There is also a strong emphasis on safe working practices.​
Participants will learn:​
  • The correct methods for shutting down and isolating high voltage systems
  • The correct measurement procedures and approved tools
  • The layout and construction of hybrid and electric drive powertrain systems and the identification of key components
  • The principles of high voltage battery construction, management and monitoring system
  • The design, construction and operating principles of three phase, brushless motor/generator systems
  • The control systems required for efficient operation, and methods of electrical rectification and regulation
  • The transmission system operating principles of current Toyota hybrids
  • The diagnosis of system faults and monitoring of live data using suitable diagnostic equipment

The dates left for 2022 are:
  • Monday 12th December - Winchester
  • Thursday 19th December - Lincoln



To book a course or for more information, please call the IGA Member Helpline on 01788 225 908. You can also email us at enquiries@rmif.co.uk.






edited by James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline on 09/12/2022
03/11/2022
Topic:
QUESTION 7

James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
James Connolly - RMI Tech Helpline
Administrator
Posts: 57
What is this part more commonly known as?