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October 2002 saw European Union regulation change the automotive and automotive repair industry. The official regulation act was called, ‘Block Exemption Regulations 1400/2002. The legislation gives motorists much more freedom when they come to choosing the manner in which their vehicles are serviced.

The act was a substantial event for the independent car servicing sector. In basic terms, the act allowed garages to service cars that were still in their warranty, without making the warranty null and void, as it used to be before Block Exemption Regulations.

Prior to Block Exemption Regulations, vital vehicle technical information was kept secret from garages, by vehicle manufacturers. Only approved garages were entitled to such information. This meant in order for their vehicles to be serviced comprehensively, consumers weren’t given much of a choice – they had to send their vehicles to an approved garage.

The law now states that car manufacturers must share technical information with the independent garage. This legislation has also succeeded in its goals to the benefit of motorists. This competitive paved the way for more competitive pricing, not to mention driving consumers to the much needed small businessman.

Today, this is much the same. Consumers have a choice of how they would like to service their vehicle. They are getting a much more cost-effective service, without the worry of invalidating the manufacturer’s warranty. (This is, however, subject to some terms and conditions.)

Some car manufacturers have, in the past, lobbied for the removal of the legislation. They have, however, been unsuccessful. No matter what your vehicle needs, be it an oil change, basic maintenance, or the fitting of new tyres, and even a full MOT, consumers can pick from their choice of garages. That is the significance of the Block Exemption Regulation 1400/2002 Act.