The Right to Repair

By design911 on Monday, March 30, 2009

CURRENTLY, YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO SERVICE AND REPAIR YOUR VEHICLE WHEREVER YOU WISH.

But, in 2010, that right could be removed. If you don’t want to see the competitive service and repair environment disappear, please register your support by signing R2RC online petition. CLICK HERE

The Right to Repair Campaign has been created by the independent automotive aftermarket in response to potential changes in legislation in Europe that could drive all repair work into the vehicle manufacturers franchised dealerships.

Block Exemption Regulations (BER) were introduced to give the consumer the freedom to choose where he/she had his car maintained without negating manufacturer’s warranties so long as original parts or parts of matching quality had been fitted by the repairer. To enable repairs to be made, the vehicle assembler under BER should make technical information freely available to the independent market.

 

“We’ve sorted the problem, sir. That’ll be double what you might have paid at an independent car repairer…”

The car service and repair industry is about to change forever. And change for the worse.

That’s because, at the moment, you have the right to service or repair your car wherever you wish. You might take it back to the manufacturer. Or maybe you prefer to take your vehicle to an independent repairer.

But, in 2010, when key European legislation is due to disappear, so will your freedom of choice.

Unless we work together now to stop this happening.

So, what’s it to you if independent car garages are about to be driven out of business?

Well, there’s the cost – to you, the vehicle owner – for starters.

Put simply, if the only place you’re able to service or repair your car is at a manufacturer dealership or manufacturer approved franchise, prepare to be hit hard in the pocket.

In fact, research shows that you can expect your car service and repair costs to be double*

 

“Here are your keys, sir – all taken care of. Have a safe 40 mile journey home…”

Significantly increased cost of repairs isn’t the only issue you’ll have to face.

At the moment, there are thousands of independent car repairers to choose from, stretching the length and breadth of the country, with manymost likely conveniently located near to your home or workplace.

But, imagine if that choice was taken away.

Just think if your only option was to drive to the nearest manufacturer dealership or a manufacturer approved outlet.

Almost inevitably, it means you, the motorist, will have a much greater distance to travel to have your vehicle serviced or maintained.

Costing you more in terms of money (increased fuel use) and time.

 

“Your car’s all sorted, sir. However, I’m afraid the independent garage industry is a complete write off…”

The motorist isn’t the only loser. Think about the effect on the economy.

Almost overnight, any business not tied to a vehicle manufacturer for repair and service will disappear- taking with it literally thousands upon thousands of jobs.

Your local garage. Mechanical and service outlets. Tyre and exhaust centres. Specialists such as electrical and air con. Body repair shops. Even roadside assistance providers – all will suffer.

There’s also those who manufacture and distribute to these businesses – all decimated.

It is,without doubt, the death knell of the entire independent aftermarket

Design 911 supports the R2RC.Â