FORD has introduced a new skills initiative for dealer technicians throughout its franchise network. The programme will see Ford revamp its training, measure and enhance its technicians' technical competence and recognise their achievement with a range of qualifications.

The key objective is for Ford technicians to have the right skills to 'fix it right first time, on time, every time'. Both new entrants and experienced electrical and mechanical technicians will progress through a graduated series of qualifications at the Ford Care Institute, Daventry. The initiative coincides with allegations that dealers are regularly overcharging fleets for maintenance work because technicians are replacing rather than repairing broken parts.