Will AI replace Vehicle and parts salespersons and advisers?

Not as a job, but it is already doing parts of the work. Across the 58 official task statements scored for Vehicle and parts salespersons and advisers (United Kingdom, SOC 7115), 28% of the importance-weighted core work is made of tasks today's AI could already do most of. The overall exposure score is 37 out of 100 (range 32–42, band: low). That is a statement about tasks, not about headcount: this measures what AI could do, not whether any employer adopts it, whether the law allows it, or whether doing the routine parts faster creates more demand for the human parts. Figures are from release 2026-q4.1.

Which tasks in “Vehicle and parts salespersons and advisers” can AI already do?

The highest-scoring tasks in release 2026-q4.1 are: “Order parts” (93/100, very high); “Raise invoices for billing purposes” (93/100, very high); “Issue receipts” (93/100, very high). Each score comes from five published 0–4 ratings turned into a number by a published formula, and each carries the model's one-sentence reason on the page.

Which tasks in “Vehicle and parts salespersons and advisers” stay human?

About 59% of this job's task weight sits in work that scores low for AI exposure. The lowest-scoring tasks in release 2026-q4.1 are: “Conduct stocktakes to verify supply levels in retail and service environments” (0/100, minimal); “Prepare vehicles for purchase or rental by customers” (0/100, minimal); “Repair vehicle parts and machinery to support automotive services” (0/100, minimal). Low scores usually mean the task needs a body in a room, a legally accountable human, or trust built in real time. Those are the three things the scoring rubric treats as gates rather than obstacles.

What should someone working in “Vehicle and parts salespersons and advisers” do about AI?

Start from the ledger rather than the headline: 28% of this job's weighted core work is exposed, and roughly 59% is not. The practical move is to spend more of your week on the tasks that score low, the ones above, and to get fluent at directing AI through the tasks that score high, because those are the parts that change whether or not you are ready for them. This page does not predict your job, and nothing here is career advice tailored to you: the score describes the occupation, not the person.

How is the AI exposure score for Vehicle and parts salespersons and advisers calculated?

Each official task statement for the occupation is rated on five published 0–4 dimensions (output replicability, physical embodiment, licensed accountability, real-time human trust, and data availability) by claude-opus-5 using scoring prompt task_scoring_v1.0. The model never writes the score; a published formula turns the five ratings into a 0–100 number, so every score can be recomputed by hand. The occupation figure is the importance-weighted mean across 58 scored tasks. The prompt, the rubric, the formula and the full dataset are published at https://futureproof.collab365.com/method and https://futureproof.collab365.com/data/2026-q4.1 under CC BY 4.0.

UK dataswitch to US

Vehicle and parts salespersons and advisers

advising customers on vehicle care, receiving and filling telephone orders for parts and processing sales, exchanges and refunds in accordance with business policy. If that's your week, this page is about your job.

The honest answer

AI is already taking a real slice of the routine work here: drafting sales or service contracts for products or services. That is a slice of tasks, not of you.

Your move: what you can actually do about this ↓

Where the work sits, by task weight

shifting to AI: 28%
changing shape: 14%
staying human: 59%

These bars are tasks changing hands, not people being counted out. The ledger below shows which.

Whole-job exposure score 37 out of 100 (32–42 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, across 58 scored tasks. The number is the support for the sentence above it, not a headline about anyone’s future.

How we know this

What is measured: Every published task statement for vehicle and parts salespersons and advisers is rated on five dimensions: can a model produce the output, does the work need a body in a room, does it need a legally accountable person, does it depend on a person being trusted in the moment, and how much data exists. A published formula turns those five ratings into the score; the model never writes the number.

How the bar is built: Each task’s share of the bar is its published importance weight, so a task you do all day counts for more than one you do twice a year.

Release: 2026-q4.1, scores computed 2026-08-04. Read the full method.

That slice is not coming back; the core of the job, preparing vehicles for purchase or rental by customers, stays yours. The tools change, the responsibility doesn't.

Your week, as this page understands it

Vehicle and parts salespersons and advisers sell new and used vehicles to the general public, and vehicle accessories and parts to garages, vehicle dealerships and the general public. The job title says “vehicle”, “parts salespersons” or “advisers”: officially one job, several names. The real job is the part underneath: preparing vehicles for purchase or rental by customers. That is the thing someone has to be right about.

The exposed part of this job is specific, and we won’t pretend it is coming back. But vehicle and parts salespersons and advisers is not one task. It is 58 scored ones, and they are nowhere near equally exposed. The most durable of them, on this evidence, is preparing vehicles for purchase or rental by customers, and the ledger below shows exactly why.

Where the work sits, by task weight

shifting to AI: 28%
changing shape: 14%
staying human: 59%

These bars are tasks changing hands, not people being counted out. The ledger below shows which.

How we know this

How the bar is built: Each task’s share of the bar is its published importance weight, so a task you do all day counts for more than one you do twice a year.

Release: 2026-q4.1, scores computed 2026-08-04. Read the full method.

Your job, task by task

These are the official task statements for this occupation, in plain English, sorted by what the evidence says is happening to each one. The official wording sits under every line so you can check the rewrite against it.

28 of this occupation's scored task statements carry a score that was measured under a different occupation's context, because the statement is shared between jobs and has only been scored once so far. Each one names the occupation it was measured under in the free routes below; none is presented as a measurement for this job.
Task clusters are not derived in this release, so the task-cluster field is empty and no Collab365 Space routing is attached to this occupation yet.

Shifting to AI

16 tasks

Tasks today’s tools can already do most of. This is the part we will not soften: where these rows are the bulk of your week, the week changes.

Drafting sales or service contracts for products or services
This is reading one thing and writing another: sales in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 50 · 7115/01, 7115/02
Source: “Draft sales or service contracts for products or services.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 81 out of 100 (77–85 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Drafting a standard sales contract from the dealership's own template is exactly the kind of document software produces well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Ordering parts
This is reading one thing and writing another: parts in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 85 · 7115/01
Source: “Order parts.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 93 out of 100 (89–97 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Ordering parts against a stock list is routine purchasing that systems handle.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Ordering parts to support vehicle maintenance
This is reading one thing and writing another: parts in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 85 · 7115/01
Source: “Order parts to support vehicle maintenance.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 79 out of 100 (75–83 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Placing parts orders through supplier systems is routine transaction work that software handles well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Verifying the availability of parts using computerised stock records
This is reading one thing and writing another: the availability of parts in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 85 · 7115/01
Source: “Verify the availability of parts using computerised stock records.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 69 out of 100 (65–73 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Stock checking is a straightforward system lookup, though someone still walks to the shelf when records are wrong.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

Changing shape

7 tasks

Tasks where the machine takes the producing and a person keeps the checking, the deciding, or the answering-for-it. For most jobs this is the biggest group, and it is where "transformation, not termination" is literally visible.

Placing special orders for desired items to meet customer requests
The software now makes the first pass at special orders, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 60 · 7115/01, 7115/02
Source: “Place special orders for desired items to meet customer requests.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 53 out of 100 (46–60 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Placing an order into a supplier system is a routine, well-documented transaction.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 4/4.
Advising customers on vehicle care
The software now makes the first pass at customers, but the part that matters is a person saying it and standing behind it. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 90 · 7115/01
Source: “Advise customers on vehicle care.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 58 out of 100 (51–65 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Vehicle care advice is well documented and easy to generate, though customers often want it from a person they trust.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 4/4.
Advising on part substitution or modification when identical replacements are unavailable
The software now makes the first pass at part substitution, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 85 · 7115/01
Source: “Advise on part substitution or modification when identical replacements are unavailable.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 48 out of 100 (41–55 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Substitution data sits in catalogues software reads well, but odd cases still need someone who knows the vehicle.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

Staying human

35 tasks

Tasks that stay with a person, because they happen in the physical world, because the rules need someone accountable, or because the value is that a specific person does them.

Collecting payments from customers
This work happens in the physical world: payments, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 60 · 7115/01, 7115/02
Source: “Collect payments from customers.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 32 out of 100 (25–39 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Dealership payments are mostly card or transfer, so software handles much of it, though customers usually pay in the showroom.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Selling various merchandise items to retail customers
This work happens in the physical world: various merchandise items, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 90 · 7115/02
Source: “Sell various merchandise items to retail customers.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 7 out of 100 (0–14 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Serving customers on the shop floor means being there with them.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Recommending products based on customer needs and desires
This work happens in the physical world: products, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 85 · 7115/02
Source: “Recommend products based on customer needs and desires.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 35 out of 100 (28–42 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Recommending products from stated preferences is exactly what online recommendation tools already do well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 4/4.

Show the other 48 tasks

Raising invoices for billing purposes
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: invoices in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 65 · 7115/01
Source: “Raise invoices for billing purposes.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 93 out of 100 (89–97 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Invoicing follows fixed rules on prices, tax and terms, and billing software already does most of it without help.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Issuing receipts
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: receipts in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 60 · 7115/01
Source: “Issue receipts.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 93 out of 100 (89–97 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Issuing a receipt is generated by the till system, with only the handover done by a person.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Maintaining records related to retail and sales transactions
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: records in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 70 · 7115/02
Source: “Maintain records related to retail and sales transactions.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 93 out of 100 (89–97 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Keeping sales and transaction records up to date is standard system work needing nobody in the room.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Taking orders online
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: orders online in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 75 · 7115/01
Source: “Take orders online.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 85 out of 100 (81–89 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Online ordering is already software; the human part is just handling the odd query.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 4/4.
Monitoring and updating vehicle parts order status
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: vehicle parts order status in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 80 · 7115/01
Source: “Monitor and update vehicle parts order status.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 79 out of 100 (75–83 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Chasing and updating order status is routine system work software already automates.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Arranging deliveries to support vehicle maintenance
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: deliveries in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 70 · 7115/01
Source: “Arrange deliveries to support vehicle maintenance.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 79 out of 100 (75–83 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Booking and tracking deliveries is scheduling work software does quickly and accurately.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Researching shipping methods or costs to manage shipments efficiently
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: methods in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 60 · 7115/01
Source: “Research shipping methods or costs to manage shipments efficiently.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 79 out of 100 (75–83 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Comparing carriers and shipping costs is desk research software does quickly.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Updating inventory records accordingly to track stock levels
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: inventory records in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 80 · 7115/01
Source: “Update inventory records accordingly to track stock levels.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 69 out of 100 (65–73 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Updating stock records is routine data work, though counting what is actually there needs someone in the store.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Processing payments and obtaining credit authorisation for transactions
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: payments in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 70 · 7115/01
Source: “Process payments and obtain credit authorisation for transactions.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 69 out of 100 (65–73 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Payment and authorisation checks already run through systems; the salesperson mainly handles the customer standing there.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Updating customers about back-ordered parts
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: customers in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 70 · 7115/01
Source: “Update customers about back-ordered parts.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 65 out of 100 (58–72 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: The message is easy to generate, but telling a customer their part is delayed usually needs a person.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Taking customer orders over the phone for vehicle parts or equipment hire
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: customer orders over the phone in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 80 · 7115/01
Source: “Take customer orders over the phone for vehicle parts or equipment hire.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 64 out of 100 (60–68 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Taking orders over the phone is routine and increasingly handled by ordering systems.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Advising on the use and features of specific machine parts based on equipment knowledge
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: the use and features of specific machine parts in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 75 · 7115/01
Source: “Advise on the use and features of specific machine parts based on equipment knowledge.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 64 out of 100 (57–71 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Part features and fitment come from catalogues and manuals, which software reads and explains well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Reviewing applications for motor finance and assessing eligibility based on finance company criteria and legislation
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at applications, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 80 · 7115/02
Source: “Review applications for motor finance and assess eligibility based on finance company criteria and legislation.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 56 out of 100 (49–63 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Credit criteria are written rules software can apply, but regulated lending decisions keep an accountable person involved.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Resolving customer complaints about parts availability
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at customer complaints, but the part that matters is a person saying it and standing behind it. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 75 · 7115/01
Source: “Resolve customer complaints about parts availability.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 53 out of 100 (46–60 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Explaining a delay is easy to draft, but a frustrated customer usually wants a person to sort it.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Calculating sales prices and total purchase amounts for transactions
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at sales prices, but part of it still happens in the physical world. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 80 · 7115/02
Source: “Calculate sales prices and total purchase amounts for transactions.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 50 out of 100 (46–54 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Working out prices and totals is straightforward arithmetic already done by tills and software.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 4/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 4/4.
Adhering to relevant legislation and maintaining required documentation
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at relevant legislation, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 70 · 7115/02
Source: “Adhere to relevant legislation and maintain required documentation.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 43 out of 100 (36–50 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: The paperwork is easy to generate and keep, but following the rules day to day is down to the person.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Advising on repair or replacement of faulty vehicle parts
staying human
The value here is that a specific person handles repair and stands behind it. That is earned, not computed.
importance 80 · 7115/01
Source: “Advise on repair or replacement of faulty vehicle parts.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 39 out of 100 (32–46 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Repair-or-replace advice follows known guidance, but customers usually want it explained by someone at the counter.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Answering customers' questions about merchandise
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: customers' questions, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 75 · 7115/02
Source: “Answer customers' questions about merchandise.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 35 out of 100 (28–42 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Product questions have documented answers, and chat tools already handle many of them.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 4/4.
Instructing customers on the proper use and maintenance of purchased goods
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: customers, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 75 · 7115/02
Source: “Instruct customers on the proper use and maintenance of purchased goods.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 35 out of 100 (28–42 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Usage and care instructions are published in manuals, so clear explanations are easy to produce.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 4/4.
Determining replacement parts required based on inspections of old parts
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: replacement parts, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 85 · 7115/01
Source: “Determine replacement parts required based on inspections of old parts, customer requests, or descriptions of malfunctions.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 32 out of 100 (25–39 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Half of this is looking at the old part in your hand; the lookup half is easy for software.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Receiving and filling telephone orders for parts
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: telephone orders, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 80 · 7115/01
Source: “Receive and fill telephone orders for parts.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 32 out of 100 (25–39 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Taking the order is easy to automate; picking the part off the shelf is not.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Estimating and quoting trade-in allowances
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: trade-in allowances, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 65 · 7115/02
Source: “Estimate and quote trade-in allowances.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 24 out of 100 (17–31 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Guide prices for trade-ins are published data, but judging the condition of the item in front of you needs eyes on it.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Assisting with the sale of motor vehicles by providing information on motor finance products to customers
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for the sale of motor vehicles, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 85 · 7115/02
Source: “Assist with the sale of motor vehicles by providing information on motor finance products to customers.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 23 out of 100 (16–30 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Explaining car finance is tightly controlled in Britain, so an authorised dealership and a named person must stand behind what customers are told.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Promoting products to retailers and sales representatives
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: products, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 7115/02
Source: “Promote products to retailers and sales representatives.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 20 out of 100 (13–27 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Sales materials are easy to write, but the selling itself relies on a person building the relationship.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Accepting vehicle returns from customers as per sales agreements
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: vehicle returns, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 85 · 7115/02
Source: “Accept vehicle returns from customers as per sales agreements.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 18 out of 100 (11–25 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: The paperwork is easy to automate, but the vehicle has to be checked over and the customer dealt with.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Labelling and tagging components so that stock inventory
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: components, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 75 · 7115/01
Source: “Label and tag components so that stock inventory can be tracked and identified.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 14 out of 100 (7–21 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Deciding the code is easy, but the labels have to be physically put on the parts.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Creating in-shop and window displays to highlight vehicle parts and accessories
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: in-shop, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 50 · 7115/01
Source: “Create in-shop and window displays to highlight vehicle parts and accessories.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 13 out of 100 (6–20 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Software can suggest a display idea, but someone still has to build it in the window.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Maintaining and developing relationships with intermediaries to increase finance share
staying human
The value here is that a specific person handles relationships and stands behind it. That is earned, not computed.
importance 80 · 7115/02
Source: “Maintain and develop relationships with intermediaries to increase finance share.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 13 out of 100 (6–20 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Finance introducer relationships are built between specific people over time.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 3/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Processing sales, exchanges and refunds in accordance with business policy
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: sales, exchanges and refunds, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 80 · 7115/02
Source: “Process sales, exchanges, and refunds in accordance with business policy.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 12 out of 100 (5–19 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: The policy is easy to apply on paper, but transactions happen at the till with the customer.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Advising customers on merchandise selection
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: customers, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 80 · 7115/02
Source: “Advise customers on merchandise selection.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 10 out of 100 (3–17 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Product knowledge is easy to look up, but the advice is given in person as the customer browses.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Assisting customers with purchases and inquiries in a retail environment
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: customers, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 7115/02
Source: “Assist customers with purchases and inquiries in a retail environment.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 10 out of 100 (3–17 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Answers are easy to supply, but the help itself is given face to face in the shop.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Processing card and cash payments
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: card, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 75 · 7115/02
Source: “Process card and cash payments.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 9 out of 100 (5–13 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Handling cash and cards at the till is physical work at a counter.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Displaying and maintaining goods in an attractive and appealing manner for customers
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: goods, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 55 · 7115/01
Source: “Display and maintain goods in an attractive and appealing manner for customers.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 8 out of 100 (1–15 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Making a shop display look good means physically arranging the goods.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Demonstrating the operation or use of technical or scientific products
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: the operation, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 7115/02
Source: “Demonstrate the operation or use of technical or scientific products.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 7 out of 100 (0–14 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Videos and guides help, but showing a customer how a machine actually runs usually means being there with it.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Assisting customers in finding product locations
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: customers, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 60 · 7115/02
Source: “Assist customers in finding product locations.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 7 out of 100 (3–11 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Pointing a customer to the right aisle happens on the shop floor, with the assistant walking them there.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Demonstrating and explaining the functioning of equipment to customers
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: the functioning of equipment, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 65 · 7115/01
Source: “Demonstrate and explain the functioning of equipment to customers.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 6 out of 100 (0–13 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Showing a customer how equipment works means demonstrating it in front of them.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Greeting customers and promoting products in a retail setting
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: customers, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 85 · 7115/02
Source: “Greet customers and promote products in a retail setting.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 6 out of 100 (2–10 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Greeting shoppers and talking up products happens face to face in the shop.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Retrieving parts from the storeroom or warehouse
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: parts, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 85 · 7115/01
Source: “Retrieve parts from the storeroom or warehouse.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Fetching parts from the storeroom means walking and carrying.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Fulfiling customer orders from stock
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: customer orders, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 80 · 7115/01
Source: “Fulfil customer orders from stock.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Picking goods off a shelf and getting them to the customer is physical work.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Putting stock away in designated storage areas to maintain organisation
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: stock away, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 75 · 7115/01
Source: “Put stock away in designated storage areas to maintain organisation.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Putting stock away means carrying boxes to shelves.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Inspecting returned parts for defects
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: returned parts, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 7115/01
Source: “Inspect returned parts for defects.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Examining returned parts for defects requires handling them.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Measuring parts for wear, using precision instruments
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: parts, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 7115/01
Source: “Measure parts for wear, using precision instruments.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Measuring a part for wear means holding it and the gauge.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Storing items in an orderly and accessible manner in warehouses
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: items, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 7115/01
Source: “Store items in an orderly and accessible manner in warehouses, tool rooms, stores, or other areas.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Storing stock tidily is physical work in the stockroom.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Maintaining cleanliness of work area
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: cleanliness of work area, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 65 · 7115/01
Source: “Maintain cleanliness of work area.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Keeping the work area tidy is physical work.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Transporting vehicle parts to clients
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: vehicle parts, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 65 · 7115/01
Source: “Transport vehicle parts to clients.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Getting parts to a customer means physically driving them there.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Repairing vehicle parts and machinery to support automotive services
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: vehicle parts, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 50 · 7115/01
Source: “Repair vehicle parts and machinery to support automotive services.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Repairing parts is hands-on work with tools.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Preparing vehicles for purchase or rental by customers
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: vehicles, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 85 · 7115/02
Source: “Prepare vehicles for purchase or rental by customers.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Preparing a car for handover is physical work on the vehicle.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Conducting stocktakes to verify supply levels in retail and service environments
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: stocktakes, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 50 · 7115/02
Source: “Conduct stocktakes to verify supply levels in retail and service environments.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Counting stock on shelves is done by walking the shop with a scanner.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

What this job pays, and how many people do it

Median pay: £31,900a year, before tax, the middle of the range, so half earn more and half earn less.ashe-t14, 2025 · ASHE 2025 provisional (reference April 2025)Provisional, because the ONS revises this figure in the autumn.
How we know this
Source: ashe-t14
Reference period: ASHE 2025 provisional (reference April 2025)
Rounding: Shown to the nearest £100. The exact published figure is in the downloadable dataset. We do not render pounds the survey cannot support.
People doing this job: 37,400in the UK, 2026.nomis-aps · Apr 2025-Mar 2026 (latest APS 12-month period)This headcount comes from a survey, not a census, so treat it as a good estimate rather than an exact count.

What is deliberately not here: a forecast of how many of these jobs exist in ten years. Where an official projection exists for a market we publish it with its vintage; where it does not, we leave the space empty rather than borrow the other country’s number.

Why this is shifting

The reason is boringly specific. Most of what is shifting here is reading one thing and writing another: special orders in, a record out. The rows above are exactly that shape: drafting sales or service contracts for products or services and ordering parts. What it cannot do is be there in the room, and that is still where vehicles get done. Which is why this page talks about your tasks changing, not your job ending.

Your move

Over a pint: what I’d tell you if you were my friend

Your week is splitting in two, and which half fills it is the whole question. Drafting sales or service contracts for products or services is going; preparing vehicles for purchase or rental by customers is not.

So, given all that: 28% of this job's task weight sits in rows the software is already learning, 14% in rows that change shape rather than disappear, and 59% in rows it is nowhere near. That is the position, measured across 58 scored tasks. It is not a forecast about you.

The occupation is an average and you are not, so the first job below is finding out where your own week actually sits.

This week: one thing

Print the task ledger above and put your own hours next to each row. Roughly, in pen, in one sitting. Then look at which group your hours actually pile up in. Twenty minutes, this week.

What you end up holding: your own week, on one page, sorted into what is shifting and what is not
How long it takes: about twenty minutes

If printing it isn’t practical: Read the rows off this page and write the same list on the back of an envelope. Same twenty minutes, same page, and it works just as well said out loud to someone who knows the job. The point is your hours next to the rows, not the paper it is on.

Over the next 90 days

Volunteer toward the durable end, visibly. Over the next ninety days put your hand up for the work in the bottom group (preparing vehicles for purchase or rental by customers) and let people see you doing it. Not a new project: the same job, with your mix deliberately tilted. The point is that when the rota or the reorganisation comes, the version of you people picture is the one doing the part that stays.

Over the next 12 months

Claim a specialism at the durable end and let the other end go. Over a year, deliberately become the person who handles preparing vehicles for purchase or rental by customers, and deliberately stop being the first choice for the rows in the top group. That trade costs something, because the exposed work is often the comfortable work. Decide it on purpose rather than by drift. Before you pay for anything, spend an hour with National Careers Service. It is free and government-funded, and it is listed below with the rest of the free routes.

The roads out of here, and why I am not sending you down them

I looked at the obvious moves out of this job, and here is what I found.

I checked the 12 nearest UK occupations to vehicle and parts salespersons and advisers (nearest by the work that AI is not taking, not by job title), and none of them survived. The closest was sales and retail assistants: only about 26% of its durable work is work you already do and it pays 21.3% less. And on the numbers you do not need one. This job scores 37/100 here, with only 28% of the task list in the top band, and “advise customers on vehicle care” is not work that hands over cleanly. None of them beats deepening what you already have.

How that was checked: this job was compared against all 412 UK occupations in this release on their official task statements, and the 12 nearest were examined one by one. A move that turns on an industry, an employer or a qualification rather than on the work itself will not show up in a check like that. And this release carries no licence register, so anything you are weighing needs that looked up separately.

3 moves I checked and rejected

These are the obvious-looking jumps. They are here with their reasons rather than quietly dropped, because the ones that fail are worth knowing about. It is one less thing to turn over at night.

Sales and retail assistants
Why it looked obvious: It came up as a near neighbour because one of your tasks is on their list in the same words: “process sales, exchanges, and refunds in accordance with business policy”. Across the whole of both lists that adds up to about 26% of the work in that job the software is not taking.
Why I am not recommending it: It is closer than most, and still not close enough: about 26% of that job's durable work is already yours, against the 35% I want to see before I will call something a route. It is a pay cut, in those words: £25,056 against your £31,851, 21.3% less (ASHE Table 14.7a, 2025 provisional (both)). Retraining to earn less is a decision, not advice.
Look at that job’s page anyway →
Debt, rent and other cash collectors
Why it looked obvious: It came up as a near neighbour because one of your tasks is on their list in the same words: “assist customers in finding product locations”. Across the whole of both lists that adds up to about 13% of the work in that job the software is not taking.
Why I am not recommending it: You would be starting most of it from nothing: about 13% of the durable work in that job is work you do today, and the rest you would be learning while the bills carried on.
Look at that job’s page anyway →
Sales related occupations n.e.c.
Why it looked obvious: It came up as a near neighbour because one of your tasks is on their list in the same words: “fulfil customer orders from stock”. Across the whole of both lists that adds up to about 12% of the work in that job the software is not taking.
Why I am not recommending it: You would be starting most of it from nothing: about 12% of the durable work in that job is work you do today, and the rest you would be learning while the bills carried on.
Look at that job’s page anyway →

What I’d stop worrying about

A friend tells you what not to spend fear on. This is that list.

The headline number you read somewhere
The big “X% of jobs” figures are about the whole economy, not about you. The number that describes your job is on this page: 28% of its task weight, across 58 scored tasks. Every row behind it is printed above with the source. Check ours; ignore theirs.
The whole-job doom story
Nothing on this page says this job ends. It says the mix inside it moves. Half the rows above are unchanged or changing shape, and the plan is about which half your week sits in. That is a very different problem, and a solvable one.
Panic-buying a course
Do the twenty-minute sorting exercise first. Most people who buy a course before they have done it buy the wrong one, and the free services listed below will tell you the same thing without charging for it.
The “obvious” next job everyone suggests
I checked the obvious moves and most of them did not survive. The reasons are printed with the routes above, including the pay and the gate. A move that fails on the numbers is worth knowing about so you can stop turning it over at night.

You are reading the United Kingdom figures

The United States splits this work across more than one official group, of which Parts Salespersons is the closest. The pay and employment figures are not directly comparable, and we do not average them together.

Switch to the United States page →partial match

The other groups this work is counted across:

Retail Salespersons

In US official statistics this job is counted as Parts Salespersons and Retail Salespersons. Pay is shown separately for each of those groups (medians cannot be averaged together), while the task list and the scores on this page are for this group only.

Your route through this

Where to go next, and what it costs

Free, and complete

The moves above cost nothing. These are the real services that go with them: public, government-funded, and free at the point of use. Nothing on this page is behind an email address or a payment.

In England:
National Careers Service
A free hour with a government-funded careers adviser is worth more than another evening of reading. In England that's the National Careers Service.
Free, government-funded
- Discover your skills and careers (the skills assessment)
In England:
National Careers Service - Find a course
Search what's actually running near you before you spend anything.
Free to search; individual courses vary
In England:
Free courses for jobs (Level 3 qualifications)
A free Level 3 qualification you already qualify for beats a paid course you don't need.
Free for eligible adults
In England:
Skills Bootcamps
Free, up to 16 weeks, and you get a job interview at the end. In England these are Skills Bootcamps - search what's running near you.
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No Space for this job, but one for what is happening to it

Nothing Collab365 runs is built for vehicle / parts salespersons / advisers, and we are not going to point you at the nearest one and call it a fit.

There is one that is not about a job title at all. The AI Authority is about being the person who directs these tools at work rather than the person they get compared to. That is worth saying here, because 28% of the work on this page is already inside what they can do.

Try The AI Authority free →

7 days free, no card needed. Explore up to 2 Spaces before you choose a plan: you pick a plan later, not now.

The AI Authority is a general community about working with AI, not a course for vehicle / parts salespersons / advisers. You do not need it to act on anything here: the moves above cost nothing and stand on their own. The data on this page is the same either way.

Noted, and thank you. We’ll email you if a Space for vehicle / parts salespersons / advisers launches. Nothing else.

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No Space for vehicle / parts salespersons / advisers yet. Should there be one?

Collab365 Spaces is built by the same people as this site. We find the problems that AI and automation are creating inside one kind of work, then solve them as short courses, briefings and Blueprints. Each Space is the community too, so the research and the people doing your job are in the same place.

What a Space actually is, in full

Collab365 launches new communities where the need is real. If one for vehicle / parts salespersons / advisers existed, with researched problems, courses and people in the same boat, would you want in?

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This unlocks nothing. Every figure, every row and every step on this page is already yours, whether you fill this in or not.

No deadline on any of this. The page will still be here, and the data is refreshed on a published schedule rather than when someone wants a headline.

Questions people ask about this job

Will AI replace Vehicle and parts salespersons and advisers?: Not as a job, but it is already doing parts of the work. Across the 58 official task statements scored for Vehicle and parts salespersons and advisers (United Kingdom, SOC 7115), 28% of the importance-weighted core work is made of tasks today's AI could already do most of. The overall exposure score is 37 out of 100 (range 32–42, band: low). That is a statement about tasks, not about headcount: this measures what AI could do, not whether any employer adopts it, whether the law allows it, or whether doing the routine parts faster creates more demand for the human parts. Figures are from release 2026-q4.1.
Which tasks in “Vehicle and parts salespersons and advisers” can AI already do?: The highest-scoring tasks in release 2026-q4.1 are: “Order parts” (93/100, very high); “Raise invoices for billing purposes” (93/100, very high); “Issue receipts” (93/100, very high). Each score comes from five published 0–4 ratings turned into a number by a published formula, and each carries the model's one-sentence reason on the page.
Which tasks in “Vehicle and parts salespersons and advisers” stay human?: About 59% of this job's task weight sits in work that scores low for AI exposure. The lowest-scoring tasks in release 2026-q4.1 are: “Conduct stocktakes to verify supply levels in retail and service environments” (0/100, minimal); “Prepare vehicles for purchase or rental by customers” (0/100, minimal); “Repair vehicle parts and machinery to support automotive services” (0/100, minimal). Low scores usually mean the task needs a body in a room, a legally accountable human, or trust built in real time. Those are the three things the scoring rubric treats as gates rather than obstacles.
What should someone working in “Vehicle and parts salespersons and advisers” do about AI?: Start from the ledger rather than the headline: 28% of this job's weighted core work is exposed, and roughly 59% is not. The practical move is to spend more of your week on the tasks that score low, the ones above, and to get fluent at directing AI through the tasks that score high, because those are the parts that change whether or not you are ready for them. This page does not predict your job, and nothing here is career advice tailored to you: the score describes the occupation, not the person.
How is the AI exposure score for Vehicle and parts salespersons and advisers calculated?: Each official task statement for the occupation is rated on five published 0–4 dimensions (output replicability, physical embodiment, licensed accountability, real-time human trust, and data availability) by claude-opus-5 using scoring prompt task_scoring_v1.0. The model never writes the score; a published formula turns the five ratings into a 0–100 number, so every score can be recomputed by hand. The occupation figure is the importance-weighted mean across 58 scored tasks. The prompt, the rubric, the formula and the full dataset are published at https://futureproof.collab365.com/method and https://futureproof.collab365.com/data/2026-q4.1 under CC BY 4.0.

Where these numbers come from

About the data on this page

Provisional, because the ONS revises this figure in the autumn.
This headcount comes from a survey, not a census, so treat it as a good estimate rather than an exact count.
The match between this job and its counterpart in the other country is partial, so the two pages count slightly different groups of people.
28 of this occupation's scored task statements carry a score that was measured under a different occupation's context, because the statement is shared between jobs and has only been scored once so far. Each one names the occupation it was measured under in the free routes below; none is presented as a measurement for this job.
Task clusters are not derived in this release, so the task-cluster field is empty and no Collab365 Space routing is attached to this occupation yet.

Task statements: gaisi-indexProcessing: catalogue-bridge → ssc-relatedness-weighting → task-scoring → score-aggregation
Task weights: gaisi-index (relatedness)
Scores: Rubric task_scoring_v1.0, model claude-opus-5, computed 2026-08-05.
Pay and employment: ashe-t14 (ASHE 2025 provisional (reference April 2025))nomis-aps (Apr 2025-Mar 2026 (latest APS 12-month period))

Figures on this page come from release 2026-q4.1, published 2026-08-05. Every release keeps its own permanent address, so a figure you cite in March is still there, unchanged, in November.

The plain-English wording on this page is assembled directly from the task statements and the published ratings, not written by hand for this occupation. That is why it is specific, and it is also why we say so.

The routes and free resources further up are today’s, not the release’s (last reviewed 2026-08-05). A route is an offer, not a historical fact, so it moves on its own clock.

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Cite this

Everything on this site is published under CC BY 4.0. Quote it, chart it, sell something built on it. Just say where it came from, and cite the dated release rather than the site, so the figure you quote stays checkable.

Plain text

Collab365 (2026). Collab365 Futureproof: task-level AI exposure for US and UK occupations, release 2026-q4.1 (methodVersion 2.0.0, promptVersion task_scoring_v1.0). https://futureproof.collab365.com/data/2026-q4.1. Licensed CC BY 4.0. Built with O*NET data (USDOL/ETA, CC BY 4.0); ONS data (Open Government Licence v3.0); GAISI task framework (arXiv:2507.22748, MIT); BLS data (public domain).

BibTeX

@misc{collab365futureproof2026q41,
  title        = {Collab365 Futureproof: task-level AI exposure for US and UK occupations, release 2026-q4.1},
  author       = {{Collab365}},
  year         = {2026},
  url          = {https://futureproof.collab365.com/data/2026-q4.1},
  note         = {Release 2026-q4.1, methodVersion 2.0.0, promptVersion task_scoring_v1.0, CC BY 4.0}
}

Permalink

https://futureproof.collab365.com/data/2026-q4.1

Data as of release 2026-q4.1, published 2026-08-05. Releases never change after publication; when the figures move, a new dated release is published beside this one and this one stays exactly where it is.