With the increased use of computerization to control virtually every system on new cars, it's getting harder for independent, non-dealer service stations to keep competitive. Most new car buyers take their vehicle for servicing at an independent shop after the warranty is expired, for the lower cost and convenience- among other factors.
Proposed 'right to repair' legislation in the USA would require automakers to share the same information, technology, and tools with the independent service industry and owners. This would, in theory, give consumers the right to repair their vehicle wherever they saw fit. A similar agreement was passed in 2002, and Automotive Service Association president Ron Pyle commented that "ASA is proud of the progress made for independent repairers relative to service, training and tool information. The 2002 ASA-Automaker agreement provides our industry a model for information that will assure repairers the necessary information for the foreseeable future."That being said, the problem appears to already be solved. But, critics believe that the Act, which is supported by NAPA, Midas, CARQUEST, AutoZone, Advance Auto, Jiffy Lube, O'Reilly's Auto Parts and others, is a "solution looking for a problem". Consumer Reports last year commented that the Act "sounds great on the surface but may not cut repair costs to consumers, and it could compromise vehicle antitheft systems and allow unscrupulous mechanics to retune vehicles to crank up performance- and tailpipe pollutants."