BETHESDA, MD - May 16, 2011 - AAA, with more than 52 million members in the U.S. and Canada, has come out in support of the Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act (H.R. 1449).
"The purchase of a motor vehicle is now a greater investment than ever before," said Jill Ingrassia, managing director, government relations and traffic safety advocacy for AAA. "New technology has made the cars we drive smarter, more efficient and safer. However, some vehicles are being manufactured with systems that do not allow independent repair shops and auto technicians to interpret information necessary to diagnose and repair problems. Motorists faced with no alternative but to have their vehicles serviced at a dealership may be limited in their ability to get competitive prices, convenient locations, or the option of getting a second opinion."
The Right to Repair Act protects motoring consumers from an expensive and growing vehicle repair monopoly by requiring that car companies provide full access at a reasonable cost to all service information, tools, computer codes and safety-related bulletins needed to repair motor vehicles. The pro-consumer, pro-small business bill is intended to level the competitive playing field for motoring consumers and between new car dealerships and independent repair shops. The legislation further provides car companies with strong protections for their trade secrets, only requiring them to make available the same non-proprietary diagnostic and repair information they provide their franchised dealers.
"For over 100 years, AAA has been urging motorists to keep their vehicles in good running condition to prevent breakdowns, increase safety, and get the most out of their investment," continued Ingrassia. "A trusted technician is the best defense for the apprehension and anxiety that motorists may experience when needing auto repairs. By guaranteeing that independent service facilities have the information necessary to diagnose and repair vehicles, the Right to Repair Act will help ensure that consumers can choose the kind of repair service that is best suited for their particular needs."
AAA was founded over 100 years ago for the purpose of lobbying for driver and passenger rights, fair laws and safer vehicles - all to better promote the love of the open road and the adventure of driving. Since then, AAA has grown to more than 52 million members strong, while providing valuable membership services such as roadside assistance.
About Right to Repair:
The Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act (H.R. 1449), which was introduced by Reps. Edolphus Towns (D-NY) and Todd Platts (R-PA), would require car companies to make the same service information and tools capabilities available to independent repair shops that they provide to their franchised dealer networks. The legislation further provides car companies with strong protections for their trade secrets unless that information is provided to the franchised new car dealers. The bill clarifies the responsibilities of the Federal Trade Commission in enforcing the bill's requirements. For more information about the Right to Repair Act, visit www.righttorepair.org.