Protecting Against Parts Shortages: The Value of Guaranteed Repair Solutions

The UK automotive industry is facing unprecedented challenges due to global parts supply disruptions. Parts shortages and repair delays are some of the biggest challenges facing UK car dealerships and workshops. According to the Motor Ombudsman’s 2024 Review & 2025 Outlook report, parts shortages resulting in delays to customer vehicle repairs ranked as the fifth most common operational challenge for workshops last year. And with 44% of businesses struggling to source replacement parts for older vehicles, the problem isn’t going away soon. 

The impact of parts shortages on your business 

• Longer waiting times: Many workshops report that “waiting times for parts are a major issue, especially when a vehicle is stripped on a lift and the part is unavailable.” 
• Rising Costs: “Paying more for parts to repair customer vehicles” is now one of the top three challenges reported by independent garages and franchise dealer workshops for 2025. 
• Customer Frustration: Customers are increasingly putting off essential repairs and maintenance due to cost and delays, which can lead to vehicles being abandoned at the dealership if repairs become uneconomical - a problem cited by 28% of workshops. 
• Business strain: Workshops are under pressure to avoid passing these higher costs onto customers, which squeezes margins and threatens profitability. 

How AutoProtect’s warranty products can help your customers 

1. Financial Protection for Customers and Dealerships 

AutoProtect’s warranty products cover the cost of repairs for listed components, including parts and labour. This means that even if a part is expensive or hard to find, customers aren’t left with a hefty bill—and dealerships can proceed with repairs without worrying about affordability. 

2. Peace of Mind and Loyalty 

When delays happen, customers with warranty protection know they’re covered. This reassurance keeps customers loyal and makes them more likely to return for future servicing, supporting the 70% of businesses who say customer retention is a key positive. 

3. Support for Sourcing Parts 

AutoProtect’s network and experience can help dealerships access alternative or “green” parts when new ones are delayed, helping reduce waiting times and costs. 

Sadly, parts shortages and delays are not going away soon so it’s up to dealerships to be proactive.  Rising parts costs mean customers and businesses are both feeling the squeeze. 

With global parts supply disruptions showing no signs of easing, AutoProtect’s warranty products are more important than ever, helping you deliver a better customer experience, maintain workshop efficiency and protect your bottom line. They can also help your dealership manage financial risk and ensure your business stays resilient, no matter what the supply chain throws your way.