BOWIE, Md. (U.S.) – The Tire Industry Association, North America’s largest association representing all segments of the tire industry, has joined other global association leaders to support the critical global right to repair movement by signing the new right to repair position statement.
The statement enumerates the core beliefs of the movement and the objectives and intended outcomes of right to repair legislation. The document also sets forth 10 best practice principles to developing a framework for right to repair legislation that any supporting country can use and adapt them to their needs.
Globally, the automotive aftermarket keeps 1.5 billion vehicles on the road while contributing $1.8 trillion to the global economy. After vehicles exit their warranty period, independent repair shops perform 70% of repairs. This vibrant industry and the consumer choice that it creates is being threatened by automotive manufacturers that block access to wirelessly transmitted vehicle repair and maintenance data.
Without the convenience and choice of independent parts and repair, especially in suburban and rural communities, consumers will have limited access to affordable vehicle service and repair. These restrictions can have catastrophic effects on local economies and the well-being and safety of millions that rely on vehicle transportation daily.
In the U.S., the automotive aftermarket is a $492 billion industry employing 4.5 million professionals, according to the Auto Care Association.
“Right to repair is a top priority for TIA members and for the global automotive aftermarket,” said TIA CEO Richard “Dick” Gust. “Without safeguards, independent automotive repairers and vehicle owners will have fewer repair options, face longer wait times and pay higher prices when they repair their vehicles. It is crucial for independent auto repair locations to have access to the equipment and data needed to repair today’s highly technological vehicles and that consumers have a choice in where they get their vehicles repaired.”
Both Australia and South Africa have successfully retained their drivers’ right to repair their vehicles. These countries are a model for similar legislation in the U.S. that levels the playing field and keeps the consumer at the heart of decision-making across the transportation ecosystem.
Read the full position statement here.
Organizations interested in supporting the right to repair vehicles of all classes can contact Roy Littlefield IV, TIA vice president of government affairs, at rlittlefield@tireindustry.org, to join the global movement.