The REPAIR Act aims to give independent mechanics access to car software data as vehicles become harder to fix

Summary

Modern cars are becoming increasingly difficult and expensive to repair because they rely on proprietary software and diagnostic tools that only automakers control. Independent repair shops are locked out of accessing the data needed to fix vehicles, forcing consumers to use expensive dealership services. The REPAIR Act is a proposed federal bill that would require automakers to share repair data and tools with independent mechanics, aiming to restore consumer choice and lower repair costs. The article explains how cars have evolved from mechanical to software-driven machines, the challenges independent shops face, and the legislative battle between consumer rights groups and automakers who cite safety and cybersecurity concerns.