MP to introduce private member Right to Repair bill

“Canadian automobile consumers deserve choice and a competitive marketplace when it comes to repair and maintenance of their vehicles,” declared Brian Masse, Member of Parliament (Windsor West) and NDP Industry and Border Critic, who was joined by representatives of the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) and the Automotive Industries Association of Canada at a press conference this morning to introduce his Private Member Bill to ensure consumers’ “Right to Repair.”

On-board diagnostic capabilities (OBD II) were introduced by the automobile industry for all new vehicles in Canada in 1998 and now exist on approximately 59 per cent of the 18.4 million vehicles on the road in Canada.

As cars and trucks become more advanced, the use of these computer control units is essential for the proper maintenance of emissions, safety standards, and operations.

The tools and software required for repair are increasingly complex, thus creating a need for accurate disclosure and fair access to these technologies.

Difficulty in obtaining this information and equipment has created significant consumer concern.

“The CAA represents five million motorists across the country,” explained Devon Jacobs from the CAA. “Our main concern on the “Right to Repair” issue is to make sure that automobile owners get the best possible service at a fair price. This bill will benefit the consumer by allowing for increased competition and consumer choice.”

The bill contains provisions that balance the need to protect proprietary information while at the same time creating a mechanism to keep robust competition in the auto service sector.

Ray Datt, president of AIA Canada stated, “There has always been vigorous competition within the automobile repair and service industry. Competition is good for the industry and it’s good for consumers — it provides a choice. This bill makes sure there will always be choice.”