New REPAIR Provisions Fail to Adequately Protect Americans’ Right to Repair Today’s Technology-Driven Vehicles

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. – MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers was deeply disappointed to learn that key provisions of the Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair (REPAIR) Act will no longer be considered by the House Energy and Commerce Committee (E&C), despite committee staff engaging stakeholders in a transparent and thoughtful process. These provisions, which would ensure that all Americans have access to affordable, high-quality vehicle repairs, had previously been slated for consideration during the committee’s markup this week of the vehicle safety title of the Surface Transportation Reauthorization Act—commonly known as the Highway Bill.

On behalf of our members, we have strong concerns with the Amendment in the Nature of a Substitute (AINS) that is now before the committee. These new provisions would simply codify an outdated 2014 memorandum of understanding (MOU) that excludes important industry stakeholders and fall short of addressing the realities of today’s vehicle marketplace.

When vehicle manufacturers control the data, diagnostic tools, and access points needed to service vehicles, they effectively control where consumers can seek repairs and how much they must pay. Repairs are 36% more expensive at dealerships than at independent repair shops. This is precisely why the opponents of the REPAIR Act are working so hard to prevent it from being considered here today. The new AINS REPAIR language being considered leaves consumers with fewer choices and higher repair costs. It also increases pressure on independent repair shops and small businesses that serve communities across the country.

“This is a setback for the American consumer,” said Emily Poladian, president of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers. “Alongside independent auto dealers and repair shops, retail distributors, and other stakeholders, we worked closely with committee staff to advance commonsense REPAIR Act provisions that would have benefitted not only the aftermarket manufacturing sector, but also thousands of small businesses, and every American who owns or drives a vehicle.

The purpose and intent of the REPAIR Act, as originally introduced by Congressman Dunn, is simple: prevent this problem from getting worse. If Congress does not act, by 2035, 155 million Americans will have significantly fewer choices to repair and maintain their vehicles. This will lead to increased costs of over $200 a year per vehicle and result in delayed repairs and diminished consumer power over their vehicle and its data.

We are committed to continuing to work with congressional leadership on both sides of the aisle and Congressman Neal Dunn (R-FL) to get this done for the American consumer.”

About MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers

MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers exclusively serves manufacturers of the parts, chemicals, tools, diagnostics and technologies that keep vehicles running safely and affordably across their lifetime. We are an important part of the vehicle supplier industry which is the largest manufacturing sector in the U.S, present is in all 50 states. MEMA Aftermarket is a recognized industry change agent—promoting a collaborative industry environment, providing forums to address issues and serving as a valued resource for members across the light vehicle, commercial vehicle and remanufacturing aftermarket.

MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association, is the trade association in North America for vehicle suppliers, parts manufacturers and remanufacturers. MEMA has been the voice of the vehicle supplier industry since 1904. Its more than 1,000 members are Strong by Association.

Our members meet and enhance society’s transportation needs and are committed to safety, sustainable businesses, innovation and the people who rely on us.

MEMA has offices in Washington, D.C.; Southfield, Mich.; and Research Triangle Park, N.C. Learn more at mema.org/aftermarket-suppliers.