It is crucial to safeguard our rights to repair the vehicles that belong to our customers. The right to repair addresses a conflict between the interests of manufacturers and the property rights of consumers. [i]
New challenges are emerging for individuals who pursue independent automotive repairs, and manufacture replacement parts, due to recent advancements in vehicle technology. Modern vehicle technology frequently incorporates proprietary technology components. Manufacturers limit access to repair services, asserting possible infringements on their rights. However, this “infringement” is nothing more than a marketing strategy designed to maintain consumer loyalty, using the illusion of safety under a familiar brand. This practice affects the equipment trade in the used market and refuses to give consumers control over their property post-sale.[ii]
As automotive technology advances, it is crucial for independent repair shops, aftermarket businesses, and car enthusiasts to obtain the essential tools and information needed to service motor vehicles effectively. While Congress remains slow to act, numerous states have implemented specific right to repair laws, empowering consumers with more choices and increased control over their personal property.
Enginetech advocates for the “Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair (REPAIR) Act,” an initiative that safeguards consumers’ rights to choose where and with which parts they can repair and maintain their vehicles with. This legislation is for the rights of our customers and supports small repair businesses. Afterall, we understand these small businesses serve as the backbone of both our company and our community.
This legislation ensures that independent repair shops and aftermarket businesses producing OEM-comparable parts gain access to vital information, tools, and equipment required for maintenance and repairs at a fair and reasonable cost.[iii]
The Right to Repair regulations focus on manufacturers rather than distributors, retailers, or franchisees. It is up to manufacturers to decide the most effective way to supply parts and information. Decisions like these affect the freedom of consumers to choose how to manage repairs on their own vehicle, a decision which directly affects demand for independent repair shops.
The freedom for consumers to choose to support their local repair business, should they choose to, is paramount. Enginetech understands the opinion that aftermarket part manufacturing, distribution and usage must not be limited to a handful of large companies. We recognize the idea that our local repair shops MUST be protected. Please join us in speaking up for our customers! If your state is falling behind; write to or call your legislators. Tell them you support the Fair Repair Act. Tell them that you believe repair should be fair, affordable, and accessible. Use the hashtag #RightToRepair on social media and spread the word about the Right to Repair Act to your professional networks and community.
[i] Why Texas Needs a Right to Repair Law. (2024, July). TexasPolicy.com. Retrieved October 2, 2024, from https://www.texaspolicy.com/why-texas-needs-a-right-to-repair-law/
[ii] Learn about the right to repair — the Repair Association. (n.d.). The Repair Association. https://www.repair.org/stand-up
[iii] Right to repair: The Federal Repair Act. (2024, March 20). Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA). https://www.sema.org/advocacy/right-to-repair
