Study: “Right to Repair” Needed to Combat High Repair Costs, Lack of Affordable Parts
The CAR Coalition shared a research paper claiming that vehicle repair data restrictions are hurting consumers in a recent press release.
Produced by Depth Services, LLC, in collaboration with the Automotive Body Parts Association, focuses on the REPAIR Act and the SMART Act, and argues that consumers will face higher repair costs without federal right to repair legislation.
Consumers are facing increasingly unaffordable vehicle repair bills, which the paper says is caused by dealerships holding a monopoly on certain replacement parts. The lack of competition leaves consumers with no choice but what the dealership offers—which is often higher costs and longer wait times.
According to the paper, 44% of respondents experienced delays in getting their vehicles fixed, with 41% waiting three weeks or longer.
Additionally, 56.3% of surveyed drivers experienced a total loss with their vehicle, with inflated repair costs often making a vehicle financially unfeasible to repair.
Rising repair prices are disproportionately impacting low- and middle-income households. 42.7% of drivers said they were forced to use their savings to cover repair costs, while 20.3% said they had to borrow funds from friends or family.
Though 78% of respondents said that having affordable repair options available was ‘extremely’ or ‘very’ important, roughly half were unfamiliar with any right to repair legislation. However, when asked, 75% said they would “definitely” or “probably” support legislation ensuring access to alternative, competitively priced auto parts.
“Repair restrictions on automobiles continue to drive prices higher at a time when Americans can least afford it,” said Justin Rzepka, executive director of the CAR Coalition. “As the auto industry develops, policy surrounding these issues must as well. It’s time for Congress to get serious about solutions, including passing the REPAIR Act, to ensure consumers have options for quality, safe, affordable auto repairs.”
