On July 11, 2023, the Automotive Service Association (ASA) announced that it, along with the Society of Collision Repair Specialists and the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, had reached an important agreement on automotive right to repair. The right to repair idea actually goes back to a pact made between automotive industry leaders in 2014. However, the new agreement reaffirms the commitment to consumer choice and shared access to necessary data and tools to enhance the vehicle repair experience.
Today, we’ll walk you through some of the primary objectives of the right to repair movement, explain some of the highlights of the new agreement, and show you how independent auto repair shops can be an excellent choice for consumers.
Goals of the Automotive Right to Repair Movement
Since its inception in 2014, the automotive right to repair movement has focused on several key objectives:
- Access to vehicle diagnostic information for repair shops – In the old days, only dealerships had diagnostic information provided by vehicle manufacturers. This made it more difficult for independent auto repair shops to accurately diagnose vehicle problems and fix them efficiently.
- Software and tools for advanced vehicle technology – Today’s vehicles are like computers on wheels. The automotive right to repair movement has made it possible for independent repair shops to have access to the same software and tools as dealerships. This helps to contribute to efficient and cost-effective repairs.
- Access to replacement parts – Now, vehicle manufacturers are required to make schematics and replacement parts available to independent auto repair shops. This helps to increase competition among shops and lower prices for consumers.
- Increased options for consumers – Vehicle owners now have a choice when their vehicle needs service. They can still bring it to their local dealership but they also have the right to choose a local repair shop if they so desire.
Increased access to parts, diagnostic tools, and software also means vehicles can more readily be repaired and maintained. And typically, a well-maintained vehicle lasts longer. So, in some ways, the automotive right to repair movement also benefits the environment. There’s less waste and the vehicles on the road can be kept in better shape.
What Are the Highlights of the New Automotive Right to Repair Agreement?
According to the ASA, the goals of the original agreement remain the same. In addition, the following safeguards were made:
Independent repair shops and consumers will continue to have access to necessary diagnostic and repair information. This now includes telematics data and ALL vehicle technologies and powertrains.
Further collaboration on education and training – Independent auto repair shops and collision repair facilities will have access to a vehicle manufacturer’s repair website, third-party software and tools, and shared access points like OEM1Stop.com.
Continued collaboration coinciding with further vehicle advancement – The new agreement highlights the fact that vehicle technology is always changing. As it does, there will be a collaborative effort to ensure independent shops continue to have what they need for accurate and cost-effective auto repairs.
What does all this mean for the consumer? According to Scott Benevidez, ASA Board Chairman, the new agreement “maintains a competitive repair market that yields the highest quality safety outcomes at a fair price.” That means consumers are able to have a choice about where they take their vehicle for service without having to sacrifice quality or safety.
Choose Expert, Accurate, and Affordable Auto Repairs At Your Local Tempe Auto Repair Shop
At Good Works Auto Repair, our customers matter. That’s why we offer an industry-leading 5 year/ 60,000 mile auto repair warranty, employ ASE-certified technicians, and invest in top-of-the-line diagnostic equipment. All of this helps us to provide an exceptional customer experience. It also means we can complete accurate and affordable auto repair and maintenance services.
Are you still taking your car to a dealership for maintenance and repairs? If so, it’s time to exercise your automotive repair rights. Schedule an appointment at our family-owned Tempe auto repair shop today. You will be treated like family while getting the best service around. We look forward to seeing you at the shop soon!
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