Why This Bill Is Needed
- Current automotive technology is being used to successfully "lock out" car owners from being able to repair and maintain their own vehicles. Modern automobiles contain many computers that control virtually every component such as the braking system, steering mechanism, air bags, ignition, and the climate control system.
- Lacking the ability to "talk" to the car's computers, owners or their auto technicians cannot accurately diagnose and repair mechanical problems.
- This means that later model cars will only be serviced and repaired at automobile dealerships, which makes shopping around for the best prices and most convenient service locations impossible.
- Without the ability to choose, consumers are denied competitive prices and the right to choose where, how, and when to have their vehicles repaired - at affordable prices and convenient locations.
What This Bill Does
- Reaffirms the owners' right to repair their automobile and keep their families safe.
- Promotes consumer safety by allowing owners or their auto technicians' access to the same information and tools available to franchised dealers to repair and maintain late model computer controlled vehicle systems.
- Permits owners to choose the repair shop to service and maintain their vehicles.
- Authorizes the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to enforce requirements in order to protect consumers and to promote competition in auto maintenance and repair.
What This Bill Does Not Do
- It does not affect the dealer's warranty agreement with the vehicle manufacturers.
- It does not require manufacturers to disclose manufacturing processes or trade secrets unless that information is made available to the new car dealer.