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July 26, 2002 Dear Representative: As representatives of consumer and safety groups, we are writing to endorse "The Motor Vehicle Owner's Right to Repair Act," H.R. 2735, introduced in August of 2001 by Representatives Joe Barton (R‑'TX) and Edolphus Towns (D‑NY). Price setting in the automobile repair market by automotive dealers must no longer be permitted. The proliferation of computer controlled vehicle systems has made it increasingly difficult for anyone except original equipment manufacturers (OEM) and their dealers to adequately repair and maintain automobiles. The Right to Repair Act asserts a vehicle owner's right to choose a trusted local repair shop and protects the right of independent repair facilities to compete fairly for customers.The ability to quickly and easily repair computerized vehicle systems is crucial for the safe operation of a vehicle. Guaranteeing access to vehicle repair information would empower consumers by enabling their local mechanic to properly diagnose, service and repair their vehicles at a reasonable cost. Under the new bill, automobile owners will also be able to choose, on cost and reliability grounds, between competing repair facilities and aftermarket parts. While we support the goals of the bill, we urge it include as well the addition of a provision to grant a local repair shop the same access to training, service information and updates, equipment repair services and the same price of service that art OEM provides to its dealers. This important change will ensure that consumers have access to competitive, affordable and quality service. Consumer access to vehicle maintenance information will in turn, greatly enhance overall public safety. Under the Act, rulemaking and enforcement authority are delegated to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). We request that FTC chairman, Timothy J. Muris, uphold his commitment to American consumers through the development of sound antitrust policy and strict enforcement in this area. We are committed to working with Mr. Muris and the FTC in order to provide to American consumers the advantages of robust competition in access to automotive repair facilities. We urge the members of the House of Representatives to support the Right to Repair Act. |
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Joan Claybrook Public Citizen |
Jacqueline Gillan Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety |
| Jack Gillis Consumer Federation of America |
Clarence Ditlow Center for Auto Safety |
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