THE GOVERNMENT has launched a task force to help keep the automotive industry "alive and kicking" in the face of low cost competition from the East and environmental pressures.

/>It comprises over 4,700 type-approved systems, 300 of these have been added since the last edition. Almost 600 new exhaust parts include silencers, 138 new catalytic converters, pipes, mountings and accessories

THE RMIF has spoken out over the government's continued delaying tactics on a consultation over the future of MOTs.

/>The range includes MOT class 4 and 7 ATL packages, complete with 2008 VOSA-approved and FAST Pass compliant emissions analys

THE RMIF is attempting to secure the future of apprentices across the UK by buying back elements of its training division it sold off to the Carter & Carter Group just two years ago.

/>A small display unit fits quickly into a driver’s cab and alerts drivers to potential accidents. The company says this is particularly useful for drivers affected by fatigue on long journey

MOT TESTING stations must realise that VOSA is now monitoring them secretly via computer systems, the RMIF has explained.

/>It is loaded with DBS Software’s latest logistics programmes but could be updated with additional diagnostic or garage management software of your cho

MECHANICS who don't ensure they are matching specific engines with the correct lubricant may be risking serious engine damage, car parts supplier Motaquip has warned.

/>It was developed in consultation with body shops and crash repairers and comes with rechargeable batteries, a charging unit and wireless base stat

WORKSHOP owners could be prosecuted for manslaughter if their gross negligence results in the death of an employee following the introduction of new legislation later this week.

/>The ‘mini’ Hunter 100 version operates on the low cost Hunter100 console with standard hexagonal targets, enabling tyre bays to use the latest technology at an entry level co

PRODUCT expert Barrie Flemming has shared his tips on getting the right emissions analyser before the VOSA deadline for new-specification diesel test equipment comes into force later this year.

/>The kits cover the country’s most popular vehicles and are part of a range that also includes replacements for dual mass flywheels and concentric slave cylind

LOW mileage vehicles can become prone to excessive oil consumption because of modern low-sulphur fuels, according the chemical experts at additive company Forté.

THE TEAM behind the Motor Industry Service and Repair Code (MISRC) plans to have 5,000 garages signed up to the accreditation scheme by August.

/>Also out from Facom this month is the 67F Series, a nine-piece flexi-ratcheting combination wrench c

/>The campaign is designed to encourage purchases of the combi gas analyser before the end of next year, when all garages in the UK will need to have a smoke meter that meets VOSA 2009 specifications

MOT STATIONS risk disciplinary action if they fail to keep paper copies of special notices issued by VOSA, the RMIF has reminded workshops.

/>It now contains a tapping drill, three varying lengths of insert and an installation tool. A high-speed tang break-off tool and a high-speed STI intermediate tap are also inclu

GARAGE Equipment Association chief executive Dave Garratt is hitting the road to raise money for charity.

/>The tread compound offers high levels of durability and wear resistance, ensuring operators get maximum value for money thanks to increased tyre l

/>The range extension includes everything from brake discs and fluid to cables, wheel cylinders and fitting k

PETER Coombes has decided to stand down as director and chairman of tools company Sykes-Pickavant.

/>Almost all the company’s products are made at its factory in Bradford. Production and technical director Nicky Bhogal says this gives the company greater control over quality and availabil

AN INDUSTRY commentator says employers must realise they are in a "beauty parade" to attract the most capable young staff entering the job market.

THE NEW boss of garage equipment specialist Actia Muller has unveiled plans to target independent workshops and franchised dealers with its comprehensive range of kit.

PARTS company Motaquip says more independent garages could take advantage of profit opportunities available on timing belt kits.

/>They assist in both diagnosing and solving common and rarer problems, ensuring belts are installed and fitted correc

/>The bolt-on device monitors the level of charge in a battery and disconnects any loads that threaten to take the voltage below a pre-determined le

/>The 12V batteries come in capacities from 110 to 200Ah and have greater power and cycling ability than regular batteries to cope with the increased array of electrical equipment used in modern vehicles, including televisions, satellite receivers, microwaves and refrigerato

AFTERMARKET's team of experts will be on hand to give out free technical advice at the Workshop 2008 exhibition this April.

A PIONEERING scheme to secure sensitive security data from vehicle manufacturers has been launched by the locksmiths industry.

/>From spanners and ratchets to pliers and screwdrivers, its aims to help you tackle any kind of mechanical repair on the m

THE NATIONAL credit crunch means drivers are keeping their cars for longer, analysts at AA Warranty have announced.

COMPANIES need to prepare for tough economic conditions if they are to prosper, the president of the IMI has warned.

TRAINING expert Nigel Buchanan has issued a stark warning on the dangers of failing to invest in on-going education.

TECHNICIANS in and around Kent will be able to quiz industry big wigs at a free evening event next week.

/>The unit has a maximum pressure rating of 100 psi and an airflow rating of 20 cubic feet per minute (CFM) at zero psi and eight CFM at 90

/>It comes with an overall height of 4m and three-stage telescopic front lifting arms. A pair of two-stage rear arms gives a reach of up to

/>It features all the benefits of the X-431 tool with an easy-to-use touch screen, wireless communication, integral CAN Bus technology and much m

/>All the models feature a simple pump handle system to make pulling gears, bearings, couplings and more as easy as possible. They can also be used on wheels, axles and press-fit compone

THE DEPARTMENT for Transport has warned anyone fitting dangerous metal bull bars to vehicles that they could be prosecuted.

/>It can change any type of tyre from 10” to 30” on a completely automatic basis with virtually no manual eff

/>Features also include ‘auto power off’ and ‘auto range’ functions as well as overload protecti

THE RELATIONSHIP between VMs and franchised dealers is suffering because of uncertainties over the future of Block Exemption Regulations (BER), says a senior boss at the RMIF.

THE Bosch Car Service network has joined forces with the FOXY Lady Drivers Club to provide a programme of motoring fitness checks for female drivers.

/>A twin hammer mechanism means it can deliver 700ft/lbs of torque and can produce 1,300 blows per minute, reducing removal time by 50

THE Good Garage Scheme has developed a free legal support service for its members.