The Automotive Service Association, the Society of Collision Repair Specialists, and the Alliance for Automotive Innovation (of which GM is a member) have come together on a proposal to the U.S. Congress for right to repair legislation. The coalition calls its proposal the Safety as First Emphasis (SAFE) Repair Act, which “guarantees independent repair facilities will continue to have the same ability to perform diagnostic and repair services as franchised auto dealers.”
The timing of this proposal is likely related to the recent legal win for the right to repair movement in Massachusetts. As we reported earlier this month, U.S. District Judge Denise Casper in Boston rejected a challenge to a Massachusetts ballot measure that expanded access to vehicle data, allowing independent shops to continue performing maintenance and repairs on modern vehicles.
“While… existing frameworks have created a thriving and competitive repair marketplace, we understand the desire for a federal legislative solution that addresses evolving consumer expectations and technological advancements,” the coalition said in a letter to Congress. “That’s why our three organizations have come together to propose a new path forward – one that builds on existing protections while introducing additional measures to prioritize consumer safety and choice.”
The Alliance of Automotive Innovation previously challenged the aforementioned Massachusetts right to repair law as far back as 2021. Now, the alliance is likely looking for clarity and consistency via federal legislation to avoid different states having different rules as they relate to right to repair.
The right to repair movement encompasses consumer electronics like phones and laptops as well as increasingly software-dependent vehicles like cars and farm equipment. Right to repair advocates encourage tech companies and automakers to make digital information available to the public, maintaining the status quo of allowing owners and independent shops to repair electronics and vehicles. When such information is kept proprietary, it effectively forces drivers to get their cars repaired at dealerships.
Comments
Thought you’re suppose to first “straighten” the front wheels before you jack-up a vehicle…
Busted tie rod link…..
That has never been a requirement, wheels turned have no affect when a vehicle is lifted on a lift. You can even turn the front wheels when on the ground and jack the front end up, doesnt hurt anything.
This may lead to the aftermarket tuners begin unable to modify software to add performance options to the engines and transmissions. It would be a little more credible if SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) was one of the organizations involved with the proposal.
Hardly an altruist’s effort. Influence the federal rules to get them as watered down as possible.