SERMI UK Explained: What Independent Garages Need to Know About Security Access
Following the 21 January announcement from the Independent Garage Association (IGA), it has been confirmed that the SERMI scheme is going live in the UK. As awareness grows, many independent garages, locksmiths and diagnostic tool users are asking how SERMI will affect vehicle security access, immobiliser (IMMO) functions and OEM diagnostics.
This FAQ answers the most common questions about SERMI in the UK, what it means for workshops, and how to prepare.
What is SERMI?
SERMI (Security-Related Vehicle Repair and Maintenance Information) is a Europe‑wide certification scheme that governs access to vehicle security‑related functions. It applies to independent garages, technicians and locksmiths who require access to sensitive operations such as key programming, immobiliser resets and anti‑theft system functions.
The scheme standardises the verification of both businesses and individuals, creating a consistent framework across Europe for legally accessing security‑critical vehicle systems. Non‑security diagnostics are not affected. SERMI only applies where a vehicle manufacturer chooses to enable it.
SERMI is already active in many European countries, and its rollout in the UK has now been confirmed.
Is SERMI mandatory in the UK?
SERMI is still only voluntary for vehicle manufacturers in the UK. However, where a manufacturer chooses to enable SERMI, it becomes mandatory for end users who need access to security‑related and IMMO functions for that manufacturer’s vehicles. Currently it is unclear which manufacturers are using SERMI.
This approach mirrors the model already in place across much of Europe.
What is Maverick’s position on SERMI?
SERMI is an industry framework that is being introduced across Europe and now into the UK. Maverick is not involved in running or administering the scheme.
Our role is to support independent workshops by providing clear, practical information about how changes like SERMI may affect diagnostics, tooling and access to vehicle systems, so customers can prepare and plan accordingly.
How are industry bodies viewing SERMI in the UK?
Industry bodies are continuing to share guidance as the SERMI scheme develops in the UK.
The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) has noted that, while the accreditation of the first UK Conformity Assessment Body (CAB) is a key step, the voluntary nature of SERMI in the UK creates uncertainty for independent garages.
IAAF’s current view is that the business case for SERMI accreditation will vary by workshop. For garages that are not heavily involved in anti-theft or security-related work, such as key coding or door lock repairs, there may be limited immediate need to register. Workshops that regularly carry out this type of work may wish to consider accreditation sooner.
IAAF has also highlighted that:
- SERMI accreditation is not linked to association membership
- Each business should assess SERMI based on its own service mix and customer demand
- The voluntary nature of the scheme may influence how widely manufacturers adopt it in the UK
IAAF continues to lobby for SERMI to become mandatory in the UK, as it is across the EU, in order to create a consistent and standardised approach for all manufacturers.
As with any regulatory change, independent garages are encouraged to stay informed and make decisions based on their own operational requirements.
Will my OEM diagnostic tool stop working without SERMI?
No. OEM diagnostic tools will continue to function normally if you have already gained security access, and if not, they will continue to function for non‑security operations, including:
- Fault code reading and clearing
- Live data and guided diagnostics
- Service and maintenance resets
- General diagnostic functions
SERMI only affects access to security‑related and immobiliser functions on vehicles where the manufacturer has chosen to enable it.
Why is SERMI being discussed now?
Although there is no single confirmed UK activation date, industry bodies including the IGA and IAAF have confirmed that SERMI is coming to the UK.
When a manufacturer opts into SERMI, they are required to provide advance notice, typically between six weeks and three months, before compliance becomes mandatory for security access. As more manufacturers prepare to enable SERMI, workshops are being encouraged to understand the requirements ahead of time.
How much does SERMI registration cost in the UK?
SERMI registration fees are set by the SERMI scheme and the UK Conformity Assessment Body (CAB). Maverick does not control or influence these costs.
For the most up‑to‑date information on pricing and the registration process, visit the IGA SERMI page: https://independentgarageassociation.co.uk/trade-topics/sermi/
Does SERMI replace manufacturer security systems (for example Ford or JLR)?
No. SERMI does not automatically replace existing manufacturer security or authorisation processes.
Instead, it provides a standardised framework that manufacturers may choose to integrate alongside their own systems. Where SERMI is enabled, compliance will be required in order to access security‑related vehicle functions.
How should independent garages prepare for SERMI?
Independent workshops should consider the following steps:
- Stay informed via the IGA and manufacturer communications
- Identify whether their work involves IMMO or security‑related functions
- Familiarise themselves with SERMI requirements in advance
- Allow sufficient time for registration if needed
Early awareness and preparation can help minimise disruption as manufacturers begin enabling SERMI in the UK.
Further information
SERMI | Access to vehicle security‑related information | IGA Find out more about SERMI and how to gain trusted status for accessing security‑related vehicle software via the Independent Garage Association. https://independentgarageassociation.co.uk/trade-topics/sermi/
