Manitoba has introduced right to repair legislation that would set a sector‑by‑sector framework for access to repair information and parts, a move the Automotive Industries Association of Canada says will strengthen consumer choice and support independent repair businesses across the province.
Through Bill 15, the Consumer Protection Amendment Act, the province proposes regulations to be developed by sector after future stakeholder engagement. The legislation does not name specific industries, but it outlines how sector‑specific rules could be created over time.
AIA Canada praised the approach and the government’s role.
“Manitoba’s action demonstrates how governments can move decisively to address this issue and deliver real, practical benefits for Canadians, even as national discussions continue regarding a harmonized federal framework,” the association said in an announcement.
It added that the first step “aligns with broader right to repair efforts underway in other jurisdictions and reflects growing recognition of the need for fair and competitive repair markets.”
The association pointed to the sector’s footprint in the province, citing an economic impact of more than $1.3 billion and 18,282 jobs. Many businesses operate in rural and underserved communities, where timely, affordable repair is essential.
For motorists, the group said clearer access to repair data and parts can lower costs.
“Independent repair facilities can help motorists save up to 30 per cent on common repairs, or as much as $500 per visit. For labour‑intensive or complex repairs, savings can reach up to 80 percent when aftermarket parts are used,” AIA Canada said, citing data from a recent report.
It noted that in rural areas, such differences can be the line between affordable mobility and financial strain.
The association also flagged business impacts when independent shops cannot access software and repair data for modern vehicles. It said a rural shop that loses one repair per week can see a 16 per cent drop in annual profit, and an urban shop can face a nine per cent decline. Nationally, restricted access to repair data represents an estimated $336 million in lost profits each year, with a higher proportional impact on rural businesses.
AIA Canada said Manitoba’s bill signals a commitment to competition, consumer affordability and small business sustainability.
“We are appreciative of Minister of Public Services Delivery, Mintu Sandhu and the Government of Manitoba for taking a leadership role in advancing legislation that strengthens consumer choice and reinforces the role of independent repair businesses,” the association said. It added that it looks forward to working with the province as regulations are developed and will continue to advocate for a coordinated federal framework to ensure consistent protections across Canada.
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