About Care

U.S. Senate

S. 2138, the Motor Vehicle Owners’ Right to Repair Act
Requires a manufacturer of a motor vehicle sold or introduced into commerce in the United States to disclose to the vehicle owner or to a repair facility of the motor vehicle owner's choosing the information necessary to diagnose, service, or repair the vehicle. Sets forth protections for trade secrets.

Instructs the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to prescribe a uniform methodology for manufacturer disclosure in writing and on the Internet. Prohibits the FTC from prescribing rules that interfere with the authority of the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding motor vehicle emissions control diagnostics systems.

States that manufacturer noncompliance with this Act constitutes an unfair method of competition and an unfair or deceptive act or practice affecting commerce within the purview of the Federal Trade Commission Act.

Original Sponsor:

Lindsey Graham, R-SC
    Sponsors/co-sponsor(s): 11

Legislative Activity

02/26/2004 – Introduced in the U.S. Senate by Lindsey Graham, R-SC, as S. 2128, The Motor Vehicle Owners’ Right to Repair Act

“Coalition President David Parde said the computers operate every level of performance, from the engine and radio to the tires.

’If you don't have access to the vehicle, you can't fix your car," Parde said. "You're forced to go back to your dealership. When you own the car, you should own the information.’ "
Belleville Democrat July 5, 2005