2025 in Review: What Changed in Auto Repair

The Australian automotive repair industry didn’t stand still in 2025. From the rise of hydrogen talk and alternative fuels, to more secure vehicle systems and increased calibration demand, the trade has had plenty to keep up with. And through all of it, one name has remained front and centre in helping independent workshops tackle change: Repairify. 

As we close out the year, here’s a quick look at the shifts that defined 2025 – and what workshops need to watch heading into 2026. 

What Shaped the Workshop Landscape in 2025

1. Remote Diagnostics Went Mainstream

More Aussie workshops relied on remote diagnostics this year than ever before. With more vehicles behind a secure gateway, technicians are finding it harder to complete simple jobs without access to OEM software, codes and calibration steps. 

This is where Repairify Remote Services played a huge role in 2025, helping independent workshops bypass blocks and complete secure jobs—from resets and recoding to ADAS camera and radar work – using safe, verified methods. Techs can access remote master technicians, with support tailored to OEM diagnostics and real-world fault handling.

2. Calibration Became Standard Workflow

ADAS calibration is no longer a niche offering. With cameras and radar sensors now standard on late-model cars – even base trims – any panel, mechanical or windscreen workshop doing post-repair handover needs to verify these systems work as intended. 

Repairify saw record growth in calibration sessions through its asTech platform in 2025. Workshops that once hesitated on investing in targets or scan tools now lean on remote diagnostics to carry out accurate ADAS calibration without full OEM toolkits.

3. Right to Repair Stayed in Focus

Australia’s Right to Repair law (which came into effect mid-2022) saw more workshops signing up for legitimate OEM data access this year. But it’s clear there are still gaps—especially around telematics data, security credentials, and the cost of access. 

The ACCC’s ongoing review of the scheme kept the issue on the radar throughout 2025. Many in the trade are pushing for fairer, more practical access that includes OEM diagnostics and up-to-date coverage for newer models, not just legacy systems.

4. The Hydrogen Conversation Took Off

Hydrogen vehicles aren’t rolling in the door just yet – but they’re coming. From mining fleets to state-run buses, Australia is now trialling and planning large-scale hydrogen rollouts. 

For technicians, this means new safety procedures, different fault codes, and future investment in fuel system diagnostics and pressure-rated tooling. Synthetic fuels also made headlines in 2025, with Porsche’s early market moves sparking industry-wide curiosity. 

5. RepairifyAU Grows – Including Local Leadership

One of the biggest changes this year? The appointment of Matt Douglass as General Manager of Repairify AU. With decades of aftermarket experience, Matt’s focus has been clear: make sure Australian workshops have local, responsive support across diagnostics, calibration, and tooling access. 

Repairify doubled down on its commitment to Australia in 2025 – expanding services, investing in new remote capabilities, and supporting the trade with local events, training and tooling. 

“We know the pressure independent workshops are under. We’re here to give them the tools, data and confidence to get complex jobs over the line – without delays, guesswork or risk,” said Matt Douglass.  

What Workshops Should Expect in 2026

1. Security Will Tighten Again

More manufacturers will expand secure access protocols in 2026. That means the secure gateway challenge isn’t going away – it’ll expand to more makes, models and systems. Having access to live OEM data, remote tools, and expert help will be critical.

2. Remote Diagnostics Will Become Core Business

No longer just a backup option, remote diagnostics will become a key workflow in 2026. As ADAS, ECUs and modules become harder to access or code, more Aussie workshops will integrate remote support as part of daily operations. Expect Repairify to roll out expanded coverage and faster response times.

3. Calibration Workload Will Keep Growing

As more insurers and fleets demand proof of calibration post-repair, expect workshops to step up their calibration game. Whether in-house or remote, it’ll become a make-or-break issue for compliance, safety and reputation.

4. Training Pathways Will Matter

Techs and apprentices will need pathways to upskill across digital workflows. This includes using OEM tools, performing safe high-voltage work, understanding diagnostic platforms, and managing secure data. The shops that build capability now will thrive later. 

Looking Ahead 

2025 was the year that digital tools, data access, and secure systems truly hit the mainstream for Aussie workshops. It was also a year where calibration became non-negotiable and remote support moved from optional to essential. 

With Repairify AU now deeply embedded in the local industry – offering scalable support, fast diagnostics and expert backing – the stage is set for workshops to face 2026 with more confidence. 

From all of us at Repairify AU, thanks for a big year. See you in 2026.