The government reserves the right to intervene in public affairs. I don’t like this. I think they make things worst 9 out of 10 times when they do this. So, I generally don’t like the idea of public intervention in commerce. Save for one occasion.The legislation called Right to Repair Act would make a huge difference for car owners and mechanics throughout America. Matthew Wright from About.com explains, “It’s basically the automotive version of an open records law”.
Here’s the dilemma. Car manufacturers are under no obligation to share information about their car designs. Mechanics/independent shops cannot access the schematics, specs and other details about a car. The Right to Repair Act, if legislated, will compel manufacturers to share this type of information. This will allow Mechanics/independent shops to do better work on car repairs. Of course, access will not be limited to them. You and I could gain information about our cars, allowing us to deal with problems appropriately.
For the past few years, the law has been battling it out with many contenders. Some of the States have been ratifying versions of the Act. Oklahoman and New Jersey have been actively pursuing this act. But forerunners have worthy adversaries in form of disgruntled manufacturers and dealers who want their copyright protections.
They also have a good point. If this type of information can be accessed by us, then competing brands have access to competing designs. But, in theory, if all manufacturers are aimed toward increasing consumer benefits, then this is a great act. But, they aren’t. Not really that is.
Manufacturers should be aware that a car owner goes through a tremendous amount of duress to make sure their car is spic and span. It is not easy. If they really wanted to make our lives easier, then they should stop contesting the act. Yes, manufacturers offer all types of repair services. But they cost more. The average mechanic costs less. A fine line must be drawn between the intention of the company and its need for profit.
We understand that publishing these documents can compromise design secrecy. But the bottom line is, if the dealership is aimed at making the car owner’s life easier, and then there should be no debates about this Act.
This is an interesting development. It brings to the floor the old theme of public versus private. When does a liberal government exercise its right to intervene?
I think the right time is when it is most beneficial to the people. In this case, we need our car information! Once we buy that car, every nuke and cranny belongs to us. We have the right to know the needed information to make our problems go away.
Car owners should express their concerns for this topic, it would make our lives much easier. I will be keeping you posted on this. Please stay tuned for updates.
SIDE NOTE: Nice going Karen, now you’re finally getting the uncut feel of living on your own while maintaining a car. You will find it harder than college *laughs*
Dave Collins
