Lobbyists Oppose Massachusetts Right to Repair Act

AIAM Members Say Measure is Unnecessary

ARLINGTON, Va., June 27, 2007 -- The Association of International Automobile Manufacturers, Inc. (AIAM) yesterday testified in opposition to The Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act of 2007 (HB 296). While AIAM supports the ability of consumers to have their vehicles repaired at places of their choice, AIAM told Massachusetts legislators that the bill was unnecessary, counterproductive and did not adequately protect consumers' vehicle security information.

"AIAM members wholeheartedly agree with the intent of HB 296 -- Consumers should be able to have vehicles serviced at the repair shop of their choice and repair technicians should have the ability to access the same information available to franchise dealers," said Paul Ryan, Director of Government Affairs for AIAM. "There is only one important exception -- data on vehicle security systems. Automakers recognize the concerns our customers have in this area and we are addressing it."

Vehicle security information, which is available to verified vehicle owners, is carefully controlled to make sure it stays out of the hands of potential car thieves. Under HB 296, however, any individual who owns a car or any auto repair shop technician would have access to this sensitive information, compromising the security systems that have been found to reduce auto theft by more than 50 percent.

"We want our customers to have a positive ownership experience and this includes the freedom to have a vehicle fixed competently and quickly at their preferred service facility. To this end, automakers do make available information necessary to service and repair our customers' cars and trucks, making this measure unnecessary," said Paul Ryan.