A bill that looked to have manufacturers of cars share its diagnostic and repair information to all mechanics (not just the dealer) got approval from Massachusetts lawmakers on Tuesday, according to the Boston Globe.
The Right to Repair Bill, say supporters, would let the consumer be able to choose any mechanic to repair his or her vehicle, as all mechanics would have access to the appropriate equipment. Formerly, some of this diagnostic equipment was reserved for the manufacturer, leaving consumers forced to return to the dealer for repairs.
In a press release issued by the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, the Association of Global Automakers, the Massachusetts State Automobile Dealers Association, and the Massachusetts Right to Repair Coalition following the decision, they wrote, “Automakers, dealers, and independent repair shops applaud the Massachusetts Legislature’s action late last night to approve a compromise 'Right to Repair' bill. This legislation represents common ground among the parties."
Under the law, read the release, consumers, dealers and independent repairers have total access to original equipment manufacturer tools and repair information.
"It ensures choice for Massachusetts vehicle owners, protects manufacturers’ intellectual property, preserves the integrity of the role of the dealer in the repair process and protects Massachusetts small independent repair businesses and community dealers," read the release.
Earlier this year, Northborough Patch talked with Kenny Giles, owner of East Main Auto in Northborough, who applauded that legislation was proceeding to the ballot.
"They already do it, and they are trying to make it so it will be worse," said Giles. "What will happen is if the dealerships are allowed to service certain systems, it's a free market for them. It's like telling a coffeeshop that you're going up 62 percent on coffee beans, but the shop can't go up on the price of coffee. If you look at the independent shops, [the initiative] is saying to let us do the most we can do. We've been blocked before, and nobody talks about it. Volvo is a huge manufacturer that has blocked software, and you have to get around it."
The Boston Globe added that "even if Gov. Deval Patrick signs the bill, it would be too late to remove the original question from the November ballot."