Information monopoly locks out independent mechanics

Most auto manufacturers provide critical diagnostic code data for new models exclusively to dealer-owned repair shops and leave independent mechanics in the dark for the first year, according to a story in my local paper, The Keene Sentinel.

Because modern automobiles are so heavily computerized, independent repair shops are hamstrung when a customer comes in with a problem. They resort to calling their counterparts at local dealerships to beg for help - or even bring the cars into those shops to perform the diagnostic checks. Those costs are passed on to customers, according to the story.

Manufacturers and auto dealerships say it's no big deal.

A "right to repair" law submitted in the last session of Congress by Edolphus Towns, D-NY and Carol Sheah-Porter, D-NH never came up for a vote. The bill, which would have required manufacturers to provide diagnostic data to independent mechanics and consumers as well as dealer-owned repair shops, hasn't been reintroduced in the present session.

Anyone who's been ripped off by an auto dealership's repair department knows the value of going to a local mechanic you know. In 30 years of owning automobiles I have only run into one case where it was less expensive to use a dealer over my favorite mechanic.

It is unfortunate that information on new vehicles should be limited in this way. Auto manufacturers clearly should provide it.

But given that most cars are covered by warranty for the first year, is it really that big of a deal? The story doesn't answer that question.

Note: I read this story in the print edition of The Keene Sentinel. I attempted to link to the electronic version of January 31 news story, "Mechanics seek 'right to repair' on the Keene Sentinel's Web site but could not find it. Instead I've provided a link to the home page above.