In a recent opinion piece for the Washington Examiner, Louis Bertolotti, Principal of Federal Government Relations at the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), discussed the challenges faced by small businesses in the auto repair industry and advocated for passage of the REPAIR Act.
Bertolotti described how changes in vehicle technology have made it harder for independent auto shops to access necessary diagnostic data and parts. "Once upon a time, your local, family-owned auto shop on the corner could fix most issues your car might have. In fact, any do-it-yourselfer could work through a myriad of basic fixes with some universal car knowledge and a bit of elbow grease. Today, independently owned and operated auto repair shops are dependent upon data from the vehicle and manufacturer to not only find what’s wrong, but also access needed parts and make basic repairs," he wrote.
He cited research indicating that 63% of independent repair shops report difficulties obtaining essential information to perform routine repairs. According to Bertolotti, these problems often force shops to turn away customers or invest in costly equipment specific to certain automakers. He added that about half of independent repair shops have to refuse service weekly due to these barriers, resulting in estimated annual losses exceeding $3 billion.
Bertolotti also referenced findings from the Government Accountability Office showing that limited access to vehicle data is a widespread issue among independent mechanics. He stated that nearly 90% of NFIB members support right-to-repair legislation and noted broad public backing as well: "Almost 90% of NFIB members support right to repair legislation, and an overwhelming 98% of Americans think it’s important to choose where they get their car serviced."
The op-ed highlighted legislative efforts in Congress aimed at addressing these concerns. "Thankfully, bipartisan lawmakers in Congress advanced legislation during a House Subcommittee hearing last month that would ensure independent repair facilities have timely access to the diagnostic tools, data, and software necessary for safe maintenance and repairs. H.R. 1566, the Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair (REPAIR) Act, ensures consumer choice and competition in automotive services, which means lower prices and safer, more reliable service for all American drivers. Small businesses, and especially independent repair shops, need the REPAIR Act," Bertolotti wrote.
