Independent Auto Shops and Right to Repair After an Accident

Independent Auto Shops and Right to Repair After an AccidentThe way we fix cars has changed drastically, and with all changes, there are pros and cons. Cars have lots of moving parts, and when one piece breaks, it costs you time, money, and many headaches. Technology has made an impact, and now, to repair a vehicle, you need to attach a computer and run a diagnostic test.

When consumers have options, it benefits everyone, and Congress agrees. Repair shops are willing to pay for the tools necessary to run diagnostic tests; however, dealerships and carmakers want to keep the exclusivity of these tools. Dealerships are fighting hard because they want to continue to make a profit by having consumers come to them. Dealerships have a comfortable setting and know they have the exclusive right to repair, so they charge consumers more.

Independent repair shops may not have the glitz and glam of coffee shops and fancy waiting rooms, but they are full of honest, hard-working mechanics. Independent shops also have lower costs and, therefore, lower prices. Research shows independent repair shops charge 20% less than dealerships on average. Another advantage of independent shops is you can find them anywhere. Dealerships are centrally located, and some consumers will have to travel miles or hours to get to the nearest one when they could have just gone to a nearby independent shop.

When should you go to the dealer?

The answer is when YOU want to and not because the dealer wants you to. Another reason you should go to a dealership is that a rare problem or recall is specific to your make and model, and an independent repair shop cannot address the issue. If you need regular service, brakes, shocks, or new tires, an independent repair shop is more than adequate for your needs.

While drivers are responsible for repairs, other contributing factors can cause an accident. If drivers cannot get to the dealership in time because it is too far, the broken part can lead to an accident. You can hold the dealership, manufacturer, and others responsible for an accident. After a car accident, you must discuss your options with a Kansas City car accident attorney.

The right to privacy

Dealerships will argue that they want to keep exclusivity to the diagnostic equipment because they want to protect your data: telematics. Your dealership gets alerts when your car needs repairs like an oil change, new tires, or another issue you are unaware of, and all of this is done without you visiting the dealer. The dealership can call or email you and let you know there is an issue, and you must schedule an appointment. This technology is available in modern vehicles. So what impact does this make on privacy?

Manufacturers argue that sharing information is essential to keep your data safe. The information sent to the dealer using this software includes your location and other identifying information. What concerns all drivers is that the data is theirs, and they should choose who to share it with. Manufacturers do not want to trust independent shops with your telematics and cite data security.

The new law gives car owners options

Manufacturers have begun to argue that independent repair shops must invest in devices and technology that keeps consumer data safe, which can burden these small businesses. Data is at the forefront of the argument, and 17 states agree that vehicle data belongs to the vehicle owner, and manufacturers have no say on how they can share the data. A counter to that statement is independent shops are willing to invest, and it offers consumers more options. When an independent repair shop invests, it can better serve all consumers in the area, and it will make a return on investment in time.

With the right-to-repair law, consumers will have more choices for getting repairs, and independent shops can help a greater amount of clientele. There will be some kinks to work out, but once the legislation is passed, it is an opportunity for everyone. Many states already require the right to repair, but more is needed. A national plan is needed to level the playing field and give drivers control of their data. The House Energy and Commerce Committee must take action.

Can auto manufacturers be liable if your car needs repairs?

Car manufacturers must also consider the liability in car accidents due to a lack of repairs and faulty equipment. The more they fight for exclusivity, the more they open themselves up to potential liability in car accidents. The repair shop and manufacturer share liability when a defective part of a vehicle leads to an accident. It is their responsibility to inform consumers and address these issues. If they fail and an accident occurs, the driver is not the only one at fault. Making repairs challenging can deter motorists from getting the work they need to be done on their vehicle and them trying to do it themselves. Exclusivity is not always the best. If you are in a complex car accident where a manufacturer or dealer could share liability, you must speak with our Kansas City car accident lawyers.

There are options after a car accident where the cause is faulty brakes, tires, or another malfunction. You must speak to a car accident lawyer in Kansas City. Kansas City Accident Attorneys want to help accident victims by providing exceptional legal representation. We have offices in Lee’s Summit, Parkville, and St. Joseph in Missouri, and Olathe, Overland Park, and Kansas Cit in Kansas by appointment only. Our main office is in Kansas City, and you can schedule a consultation by calling our office or completing our contact form.