Independent NJ garages fight for Right to Repair Act

Independent repair shop owners in New Jersey are fed up with car manufacturers, and they are calling on lawmakers to fix a broken system. Repair owners say it's getting harder to repair newer model cars.

News 12 Staff

Feb 21, 2007, 12:16 AM

Updated 6,514 days ago

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Independent repair shop owners in New Jersey are fed up with car manufacturers, and they are calling on lawmakers to fix a broken system.
Repair owners say it's getting harder to repair newer model cars. They say they can't afford or access certain information from car manufacturers to complete repairs. The owners add they are often told to send cars back to the dealers for repairs, often at a higher price for the customer. Now, owners are urging lawmakers to pass a bill that would create the Right to Repair Act. Under the act, manufacturers would be required to release all information needed for independent repair shops to complete the jobs.
Manufacturers and dealers say they are opposed to the bill. They say it's a front for knock off companies to steal their designs and make lesser-quality copies. They also argue that all the information repair shops need is available online and through subscriptions.
The state Assembly is expected to vote on the bill Thursday. Then it still must go to the Senate.
To seen an interview with an NJ garage owner, select iO Extra on channel 612.