Thatcham Research highlights urgent repair sector skills gap 

Thatcham Research has issued a stark warning about a critical skills shortage in the UK’s vehicle repair and salvage sector, calling for urgent industry-wide action to protect repair capacity, reduce insurance costs, and build a sustainable workforce. 

According to new research conducted in partnership with the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR), 73% of repair and salvage professionals believe the skills gap is widening. The challenge is being driven by increasing vehicle complexity, particularly in electric vehicles (EVs) and those fitted with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), alongside an ageing workforce and competition from other industries offering more attractive career prospects. 

Thatcham Research data shows that average post-collision repair costs have risen by 50% between 2019 and 2024, largely due to the advanced skills now required to repair modern vehicles safely and effectively. 

Dean Lander, Head of Repair Sector Services at Thatcham Research, said, “The automotive repair sector stands at a crossroads. As vehicles become more sophisticated, the gap between the skills our industry needs and the talent available is widening. This directly impacts insurance premiums, repair times and customer satisfaction across the UK.” 

To address the challenge, Thatcham Research is urging investment in training and apprenticeship schemes. Since 2021, its Automotive Academy has trained more than 5,000 people, equipping them with future-ready skills in areas such as EV repair, ADAS calibration and vehicle damage assessment. In 2025, nearly 20% of the Academy’s autumn intake were women – a notable step towards greater diversity in a traditionally male-dominated field. 

The research identified key solutions to the skills gap, including greater promotion of apprenticeships in education (61%) and increased investment in technical training (48%). 

Thatcham Research CEO Jonathan Hewett added, “Young people today are passionate about sustainability, technology and making a tangible difference. A career in automotive repair offers all three. Skilled technical roles in collision repair should be more widely recognised as a great career choice that will never be replaced by AI or automation.” 

He welcomed the government’s commitment in the recent Motor Insurance Taskforce Report, which includes a £100m investment in engineering skills in England over the next three years. Thatcham Research’s Automotive Academy is poised to support this initiative, ensuring the next generation of technicians are equipped for the evolving demands of vehicle repair. 

To read the full story visit: https://news.thatcham.org/thatcham-research-reports-critical-skills-shortage-in-uk-vehicle-repair-sector/