Vehicle Licence Plate Lookup – Now in Bosch ESI[tronic] Evolution
As our ESI[tronic Evolution Software continues its enhancement, a game-changing feature has been added for all UK users. The flagship Diagnostic Software will now recognise the input of UK vehicle registration numbers in the current format. Previously, the software allowed vehicle identification through manual selection criteria, vehicle identification number (VIN) reading, or RB key.
However, with the 2024/3 update, vehicle identification can now also be carried out via the number plate, making it easier for IAM workshops to handle UK vehicles.
Important to note: An internet connection is required to carry out this type of vehicle search.
While the new update offers the convenience of licence plate, identification is still supported by the software through all the other options available in the vehicle selection screen. Including: free text, VIN identification and manual selection.
Keep up to date with the latest ESI News or find out more information about exciting features being introduced by signing up to our monthly ‘Bosch Aftermarket’ newsletter here
Transferring the engine torque to the road
The drive shaft assembly plays a vital role in transferring the driven force of the transmission to the wheels. At the same time, it has to flex and turn with the independent suspension system, enabling low rotational resistance and transferring axial and radial forces to the driven and steered wheels.
febi replacement drive shaft joint kits are manufactured and engineered to the highest quality standards ensuring they meet or exceed the original equipment manufacturer’s specifications in fit, form and function.
All new OE quality materials are used, such as rolled splines and threads, machined and heat-treated cages, races and ball bearings. Our premium neoprene dust boots keep road debris out and the grease in the constant-velocity joints. Stainless-steel boot clamps provide better resistance to stretching and corrosion. Additionally, all the necessary hardware required to complete the job is supplied and included in the box.
febi supplies over 220 drive shaft joint kits for popular cars and LCVs, in OE matching quality with a three-year guarantee.
MEYLE control arms are now available for the M3 (E90 series) and 1M (E82).
Control arms are something we’re known for. Not only for TESLA but also almost every BMW. The M3 has always been an exception.
But exceptions prove the rules. That’s why we’ve completed our range and finally made our control arms available for the M3: premium MEYLE quality with a sleek design – because the inside should match the outside, shouldn’t it?
Discover the underlying problem, reminds Ecobat Battery
As workshops are very aware, many of the problems that vehicles are brought to them to resolve, are very often caused by faults with other components or glitches within systems, so it’s these underlying issues that need to be discovered and subsequently put right, before technicians are able to successfully complete a repair.
Although diagnosis of this kind is accepted to be a necessary part of the job for many repairs, battery related analysis is still very often overlooked and a faulty or discharged battery simply swapped, without any proactive consideration as to why it might have failed. While replacement might fix the immediate problem, failure to understand why it failed may mean that simply replacing the battery merely provides a temporary fix, after which, the fault will return.
Irrespective of the powertrain, a 12-volt battery is almost always at the heart of a vehicle’s electrical system, powering many of its related functions,
but, in common with every other component, they have a natural service life, after which their performance will deteriorate and eventually they will fail. However, Ecobat Battery, the UK’s largest battery distributor, is encouraging technicians to be inquisitive and ask themselves why the battery is discharged, for example, and follow a simple step by step guide to make sure that battery replacement is a first time fix, not an ongoing saga.
BM Catalysts enhances garage support with launch of garage-focused initiative
BM Catalysts, Europe’s leading manufacturer of aftermarket hot end emissions products, has successfully launched two new initiatives aimed at supporting UK garages: BM Garage Pro and BM Rewards Pro.
Unveiled at the UK Garage and Bodyshop Event earlier in the year, both programmes received an overwhelmingly positive response from garages and other industry leaders.
BM Garage Pro is an e-learning platform designed to help technicians enhance their product knowledge. The training scheme offers an array of video content, helping technicians get up to speed on the latest technical and product information, while receiving an official certificate from the company upon completion of each course.
The initiative provides garage professionals with access to invaluable technical content and news updates, creating a community dedicated to long-term professional development, helping to futureproof the aftermarket and enabling technicians to stay ahead of evolving emissions control technologies and regulations.
BM Rewards Pro is a rewards scheme where garages can earn points, or an extended manufacturers’ warranty, for installing and registering BM Catalysts products. These points can then be redeemed for a reward of choice from thousands of items ranging from the latest technology to branded merchandise.
The launch of these initiatives has been a major success. Technicians and notable industry figures eagerly visited the BM Catalysts stand to learn more about the programmes and sign up.
Mark Blinston, Commercial Director at BM Catalysts, said: “We’re really pleased with the fantastic reception of BM Garage Pro and BM Rewards Pro, and we’re excited to continue driving sign-ups for both programmes. The positive feedback from installers and motor factors alike confirms the demand for high-quality training and loyalty initiatives in the industry.
“These programmes are helping to boost knowledge and add real value to businesses across the aftermarket, and we’re eager to see them grow even further. Now’s the perfect time for garages to get involved and take advantage of these valuable resources.”
