Today’s modern vehicles are very complex machines. Computers and electronics control nearly every vehicle function from safety and emissions to entertainment. Although these computers provide many benefits to motorists through improved fuel efficiency, comfort and safety, they also provide increasing opportunities for car companies to lock out access by car owners and the independent repair shops where they choose to obtain service for their vehicles.

The need for Right to Repair legislation has become apparent in order to protect the rights of car owners to decide where and how they have their vehicles serviced, whether at a new car dealer or an independent service facility.

On June 13, 2007, the Motor Vehicle Owner's Right to Repair Act (HR 2694) was introduced into the 110th Congress by Rep. Edolphus Towns (D-NY). The Right to Repair Act would require car companies to make the same service information and tools capabilities available to independent repair shops that they provide their 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.