Understanding the Basics of SERMI (Security-Related Repair and Maintenance Information)

Introduction

The automotive industry is increasingly dependent on advanced electronics and digital systems. While this innovation improves vehicle safety and performance, it also introduces new security risks—particularly when it comes to accessing sensitive vehicle data and systems. To address these risks while still allowing independent repairers to service modern vehicles, the European automotive sector introduced SERMI.¹

SERMI stands for Security-Related Repair and Maintenance Information. It is a Europe-wide scheme designed to regulate access to security-sensitive vehicle information while ensuring fair competition in the vehicle repair market.²

What is SERMI?

SERMI is a certification and authorisation system that allows independent garages, technicians, and locksmiths to access security-related vehicle repair and maintenance information from vehicle manufacturers.³

This information may include systems involved in:

• Immobilisers
• Key programming
• Anti-theft systems
• Central locking systems
• Alarm systems
• Security gateway access
• ECU reprogramming related to theft prevention

Because these systems can potentially be misused, access is restricted to approved and verified professionals.⁴

Why SERMI Was Introduced

Before SERMI, independent workshops often struggled to access the same security information available to authorised dealerships. This created an uneven playing field and limited consumer choice.⁵

At the same time, manufacturers were concerned about vehicle theft and cybersecurity risks if sensitive information became too widely available.⁶

SERMI was introduced to balance these two needs:

Protect vehicle security systems
Allow independent repairers fair access to repair data

The scheme forms part of the EU’s type-approval regulations governing vehicle data access.⁷

Who Needs SERMI Certification?

SERMI certification is required for professionals who need access to security-related vehicle information. This typically includes:

• Independent vehicle repair workshops
• Mobile mechanics
• Auto electricians
• Vehicle locksmiths
• Key programming specialists
• Diagnostic specialists
• Fleet maintenance providers

Without SERMI approval, these businesses may lose the ability to perform certain security-related repairs on modern vehicles.⁸

How the SERMI System Works

SERMI operates through a structured approval process involving both businesses and individual employees.

There are two levels of authorisation:

1. Company Authorisation

A repair business must be approved as a trusted organisation. This includes checks such as:

• Business legitimacy
• Criminal record checks
• Verification of business activities
• Secure handling of sensitive information

2. Individual Technician Authorisation

Technicians who need access to security information must also be approved individually. This includes:

• Identity verification
• Criminal background checks
• Professional role validation

Once approved, technicians receive secure digital credentials that allow them to access manufacturer security information portals.⁹

The Role of Certification Bodies

SERMI certification is delivered through accredited Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs) in each participating country.¹⁰

These organisations are responsible for:

• Assessing applications
• Conducting background checks
• Issing approvals
• Maintaining compliance

An oversight organisation called the SERMI Scheme Owner (SO) manages the overall system and ensures consistent standards across Europe.¹¹

Benefits of SERMI

SERMI brings several advantages for both the industry and consumers.

For Independent Workshops

• Access to manufacturer security data
• Ability to perform key programming and immobiliser work
• Greater competitiveness with dealerships
• Compliance with European regulations

For Vehicle Owners

• More choice of repair providers
• Competitive pricing
• Continued access to independent specialists

For Manufacturers

• Controlled and secure data access
• Reduced risk of misuse
• Standardised access process across Europe

These benefits help maintain fair competition in the European automotive aftermarket.¹²

When SERMI Came Into Effect

SERMI began rolling out across Europe from 2023 onwards, with implementation becoming mandatory for access to security-related vehicle information through manufacturer portals.¹³

As the system becomes fully adopted, SERMI authorisation will be required for independent professionals who want to continue performing security-related vehicle repairs.

Preparing for SERMI Compliance

Businesses that expect to work on modern vehicles should consider preparing for SERMI by:

• Reviewing whether their work involves security-related systems
• Identifying technicians who need authorisation
• Applying through an approved certification body
• Ensuring internal procedures protect sensitive data

Conclusion

SERMI represents a major step forward in balancing vehicle security with fair access to repair information. By introducing a standardised certification system, the scheme allows independent garages and technicians to continue servicing modern vehicles while ensuring sensitive security systems remain protected.

For independent automotive professionals, obtaining SERMI certification is likely to become an essential requirement for working on many modern vehicles, particularly when dealing with keys, immobilisers, and anti-theft systems.¹⁴

How will SERMI affect tow bar fitters?

Anyone wishing to install a tow bar will essentially require SERMI certification in order to install any towing electrics that require a vehicle software update. On modern vehicles, this will be the majority. Unfortunately, fitting read-only electrics will not be enough to get around the need to be SERMI registered.

Footnotes (Oxford Style)

European Commission, Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/1244 of 20 July 2021 establishing procedures for access to vehicle repair and maintenance information, Official Journal of the European Union, 2021.
European Commission, Regulation (EU) 2018/858 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the approval and market surveillance of motor vehicles, Official Journal of the European Union, 2018.
SERMI Scheme Owner, Security Related Repair and Maintenance Information (SERMI), SERMI Official Website, 2024.
European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), Access to In-Vehicle Data and Resources, Brussels: ACEA, 2022.
European Commission, Vehicle Repair and Maintenance Information (RMI) Access Guidelines, Brussels: European Commission, 2023.
ACEA, Access to In-Vehicle Data and Resources, 2022.
European Commission, Regulation (EU) 2018/858, 2018.
SERMI Scheme Owner, SERMI Scheme Documentation, 2024.
European Commission, Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/1244, 2021.
SERMI Scheme Owner, SERMI Conformity Assessment Body Framework, 2024.
SERMI Scheme Owner, SERMI Governance Structure, 2024.
ACEA, Access to In-Vehicle Data and Resources, 2022.