The Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA), Manassas, Va., is calling upon Congress to pass legislation requiring automakers to share more technical data about their vehicles with independent repair shops and spare parts vendors.
In a news release, the group has urged Congress to pass the Motor Vehicle Owner’s Right to Repair Act. The ARA also notes that legislation similar to the act has already gone into effect in the European Union.
“Today, computers and electronics control nearly every vehicle function,” says Michael Wilson, CEO of the ARA. “Too often, this allows automobile manufacturing companies to limit access to the data that consumers and independent repair facilities need to service and repair vehicles.”
The lack of access to such data limits the ability of consumers to choose recycled auto parts derived from the auto salvage industry, says the ARA. “ARA is calling on Congress to level the playing field and to stop propping up the automobile manufacturers at the expense of the U.S. consumer and auto recyclers across the country,” says Wilson.