It is inevitable that whether you have a computer or own commercial real estate, parts and equipment will break down over time. In most cases, the repairs can be made at home or in your shop, but some companies don’t agree with this and feel it should be regulated. AutoCenter Sales wants you to be as informed as possible, so we have created this article on the topic of your right to repair items to help you stay informed.

What Is the Right to Repair?

The right to repair is precisely what the name means. You have the right to fix something you own or take it to a technician that can get the job done for you. If you are looking at commercial properties for sale and you purchase the property, then an item breaks, you will want to fix it yourself if possible. But with some big manufacturers, there has been a push to not only make fixing your own products difficult, but actually illegal. The situation becomes problematic because, in most cases, shoppers are allowed to do repairs, but the information needed or parts will be denied to them in many cases. Companies want to argue that consumers need to use their repair options and parts to get the item fixed properly when there may be other options available. A process was started in the 1950s with a movement to get companies to provide the essential needs of the consumer to complete the repair without issues.

REPAIR Act (H.R. 1566)

The REPAIR Act (H.R. 1566) requires vehicle manufacturers to provide car owners and independent shops with direct access to critical vehicle-generated data, telematics, and software calibrations without restrictive digital locks. By ensuring independent mechanics have the same diagnostic capabilities as franchised dealerships, this act prevents repair monopolies and allows consumers to choose where their vehicles are serviced. As of early 2026, the bill has gained significant bipartisan momentum in the 119th Congress, with advocates pushing for its inclusion in the Surface Transportation Reauthorization. During a landmark January 2026 subcommittee hearing, industry leaders warned that without this legislation, over 900,000 independent repairers face an existential threat by being locked out of the data required to service modern vehicles.

This legislation is essential for reducing repair delays and lowering costs, which helps maintain operational productivity and protects small businesses from being phased out as vehicles become more software-dependent. Beyond data access, the bill fosters a competitive marketplace by prohibiting manufacturers from mandating specific brands of parts for non-warranty repairs. If enacted, manufacturers must provide this information on fair and reasonable terms while adhering to NHTSA-regulated cybersecurity standards. This ensures that the shift toward open repair access does not compromise vehicle safety or liability, ultimately providing a more transparent and affordable environment for both shop owners and consumers.

AutoCenter Sales: Honest Professionals Here to Serve You

Part of running a successful automotive business requires understanding your industry inside and out. If you have been considering purchasing a business and are looking at Quick lubes, Auto Repair shops, Collision Shops or Car Washes for sale, or are curious about the selling automotive business process, we are your local trusted professionals! AutoCenter Sales offers advanced knowledge and excellent resources that can help meet our client’s selling or purchasing needs Nationwide from start to finish with exceptional results. Let us help get you started with the process by messaging us online or calling us at 800-874-5793 today.