A coalition of aftermarket parts manufacturers is seeking federal and state legislation to force automakers to turn over proprietary information under the guise that independent mechanics do not have access to the information they need to repair cars. Recent data from the Automotive Service Association (ASA) shows that 75% of non-warranty repairs are completed by independent repair facilities. Furthermore, any bill—federal or state—is unnecessary because the private sector already provides cost-effective access to any information necessary to service or repair vehicles.
Early in the 112th Congress, Reps. Edolphus Towns (D-N.Y.) and Todd Platts (R-PA) introduced H.R. 1449 in support of the so-called "right-to-repair" issue. A Senate companion, which may be sponsored by Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.), has not yet been introduced but is anticipated.
NADA continues to lead a coalition of automakers, service providers and others to oppose federal legislation. Proponents of the legislation are also seeking state enactment of the so-called “right-to-repair” legislation. NADA is working with state associations and urges dealers to actively oppose any so-called "right to repair" legislation.
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