Executive View: Technology’s impact on vehicle repairs and maintenance in 2025

The automotive industry is undergoing a transformation driven by new technology, shifting consumer preferences and a global push for sustainability. These forces are redefining how vehicles are designed and repaired, writes Marc Russell.

As the industry moves towards electrification, digital systems and new service models, workshops are faced with a complex and changing landscape. Looking ahead in 2025, it’s clear that adopting new solutions and encouraging innovation will be key for companies to remain competitive and thrive in this uncertain environment.

Electric vehicles and compliance

The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) is a big change to the current status quo and it’s happening at a rapid pace. With government support, 70% of new vans and 80% of new cars sold in the UK are expected to be emission-free by 2030 and that is expected to rise to 100% by 2035.

It means conventional repair garages need to adapt. They must rethink their workforce and equipment to accommodate increasing numbers of EVs. As a start, this includes buying EV-specific equipment, receiving high-voltage training, and following new safety regulations.

Garages must upskill their team with specially trained mechanics who understand EV tools and equipment, including high-voltage safety apparatus. As demand in 2025 grows, informal on-the-job training isn’t enough. The Institute of the Motor Industry offers accreditation to help kickstart upskilling, which is a short-term investment that will ultimately open new revenue streams for garages nationwide.

Data-driven vehicle maintenance

These tech driven trends are expanding. The European Union is investing €500 million through its Horizon Europe programme for research and innovation in connected and automated mobility from 2021 to 2027.

This is driving a revolution in vehicle servicing. Connected cars are now capable of real-time diagnostics and immediate updates, enabling predictive maintenance that significantly reduces downtime and minimises potential damage.

This connectivity presents an opportunity for garages to offer enhanced services and build stronger customer relationships. By leveraging data-driven insights, repair providers can identify issues early, resulting in cost savings for customers and improved vehicle reliability. For instance, AI-powered systems can analyse data from various sensors to predict component failures, allowing for timely interventions before major breakdowns occur.

Data-driven maintenance supports a proactive, tech-savvy approach to vehicle care. Garages that embrace these technologies will be better positioned to meet the needs of modern car drivers.

Online booking in the digital age

Consumers now have instant access to local garage ratings and service information at their fingertips. Competition for customers is fierce, with data showing that almost two thirds of motorists book a garage service within one hour of receiving a quote.

We're seeing a generational shift in how people book services too, with younger drivers preferring to book services online rather than over the phone.

We’ll see this trend trickle into other demographics as people look for convenient car maintenance solutions.

Consequently, the industry has to reconsider its digital strategy. Traditional garages will need more focus on their websites, social media presence or offer an online booking system to build customer awareness and, over time, loyalty.

Evolving consumer demands

Technology will continue to shift how garages interact with consumers. We've observed a growing desire among drivers to understand their vehicles better, evidenced by increased searches for specific car makes and models on our platform.

With vast amounts of automotive information readily available online, this trend of car owners becoming more knowledgeable about their vehicles is likely to continue.

This presents an opportunity for garages to build stronger customer relationships. Transparent and clear communication about necessary repairs, maintenance, or even what technical terms used by garages mean, will create an approachable experience, greater customer satisfaction, can enhance a business's reputation and build trust.

The emergence of mobile repair services

As convenience increasingly influences consumer choices in the aftermarket sector, I anticipate mobile mechanics will become more prevalent in 2025. From bodywork repairs to routine modifications, an increasing number of car owners will opt for the convenience of having mechanics come to them for repairs.

For businesses aiming to enhance their service offerings, introducing a mobile option could significantly boost customer satisfaction in the coming year. However, implementing mobile services requires careful planning. While it may reduce overhead costs, factors such as travel time and expenses need to be carefully incorporated into pricing structures.

Looking ahead

As the automotive industry evolves, being flexible and able to adapt quickly will be crucial. To stay competitive, companies need to invest in new skills and technologies, while maintaining the personal service many customers appreciate.

The industry's future hinges on how well we can adjust to and adopt the new technologies reshaping the automotive landscape. 

By welcoming these changes and tackling the skills shortage, especially in electric vehicle maintenance, the aftermarket sector can spearhead the industry's transformation and help smooth the transition to future transportation methods for everyone.

Marc Russell is CCO at FixMyCar