A mandatory scheme should be introduced for car manufacturers to share technical information with independent repairers
Sharing of technical information
The ACCC found problems with the detail and timeliness of technical information given to independent repairers. This is despite a voluntary commitment made by car manufacturers in 2014 to provide independent repairers with the same information to repair and service new cars that they provide to their authorised dealers.
There are barriers in the industry preventing access to this technical information, which impacts competition in the repair and servicing of new cars. The repair and servicing sector was worth a combined $24.8 billion in 2016-17 and dealers have an average 64 per cent profit margin on new cars they service.
“Car manufacturers should be required to share new cars’ technical information with independent repairers. For new cars to be properly repaired and serviced, independent repairers need access to electronic information and data produced by car manufacturers,” Mr Sims said.
“This lack of competition hurts new car buyers who have fewer options to get the best deal for repairs and servicing, and restricts independent repairers from competing on a level playing field.”
This is an excerpt taken from an article on the ACCC website.
CMR Automotive strongly supports the message of sharing technical information as it supports our view of consumer rights and the right to choose where to have your vehicle serviced.
https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/new-car-industry-put-on-notice
