Washington, D.C. – The CAR Coalition, a growing group of independent automotive parts, management and repair companies, associations, and insurers committed to preserving consumer choice and affordable vehicle repair, shared a research paper focused on the impact of right to repair legislation on the auto industry. The paper, produced by Depth Services, LLC, in collaboration with the Automotive Body Parts Association (ABPA), focuses on the REPAIR Act and the SMART Act and argues that in the face of rising costs and restrictions on auto repairs, consumers will face even higher costs without federal legislation that protects their right to choose how to repair their vehicles.

“Repair restrictions on automobiles continue to drive prices higher at a time when Americans can least afford it,” said Justin Rzepka, executive director of the CAR Coalition. “As the auto industry develops, policy surrounding these issues must as well. It’s time for Congress to get serious about solutions, including passing the REPAIR Act, to ensure consumers have options for quality, safe, affordable auto repairs.”

Key findings from the paper include: 

• “We urgently need policy changes that protect consumer rights and foster fair competition.”
• “The economic and social importance of reliable transportation.”
• “We cannot ignore the emotional and psychological toll of dealing with the current repair ecosystem.”
• “The evidence is clear: more competition, transparency, and consumer choice would not only reduce costs but also improve the quality of life for millions of American drivers.” 

“The findings of this report make it clear: rising repair costs and parts monopolies are hitting consumers hard,” said Edward Salamy, executive director of the ABPA. “Drivers across the country are struggling with inflated repair bills and delays that could be avoided if we had a truly competitive market for replacement parts. The ABPA remains committed to fighting for consumer choice, affordability, and access to high-quality parts to ensure fairness in the industry.” 

The REPAIR Act safeguards vehicle owners’ access to essential repair and maintenance information, ensuring independent repair shops, parts manufacturers, and aftermarket service providers can continue to offer affordable and high-quality services. With the increasing complexity of modern vehicles, including advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), telematics, and software-driven diagnostics, the legislation addresses growing concerns and existing barriers regarding fair access to repair information.