REPAIR Act
House REPAIR Act Would Require Automakers to Share Repair Data With Independent Shops
Legislative Progress
Key Points
- This bill, called the REPAIR Act, would stop car makers from blocking access to the data and tools needed to fix vehicles. It ensures that car owners can choose where to get their cars repaired, whether at a dealership or an independent shop, by making sure those shops have the same information as the big dealers.
- Car manufacturers would be required to give owners and independent repair shops the same repair information, software, and tools that they provide to their own authorized dealers. This includes data sent wirelessly from the car's computer system, which is often used to diagnose modern engine problems.
- The policy forbids car companies from forcing owners to use specific brands of parts or tools for repairs, unless it is for a free recall or warranty fix. If a manufacturer recommends a specific brand, they must clearly tell you that you have the right to choose other options for your vehicle.
- To protect privacy, the bill says that anyone who accesses your car's data must delete it within 72 hours if you ask them to. They also cannot sell your data to others without your permission, though they can use anonymous data to help design better parts and tools in the future.
- A new advisory committee would be created to watch over the car repair industry and make sure competition stays fair. The Federal Trade Commission would have the power to investigate and punish companies that try to block owners from using independent repair shops or third-party parts.
Impact Analysis
Personal Impact
Gig workers who depend on their vehicles for income — rideshare drivers, delivery drivers, and others — would benefit from more affordable repair options. When independent shops can access the same diagnostic data and tools as dealerships, repair costs tend to drop because of increased competition. For workers whose car is essentially their office, cheaper and more accessible repairs directly protect their ability to earn a living.
Milestones
Forwarded by Subcommittee to Full Committee by Voice Vote.
Subcommittee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
Referred to the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade.
Sent to a congressional committee for expert review. The committee decides whether this bill moves forward.
Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
Introduced in House
The bill was officially filed and given a number. It now enters the legislative queue.
Votes
No votes have been recorded for this legislation yet.
Related News
6 articles
REPAIR Act finds more support at House hearing
During a House hearing on Jan. 13, 2026, industry leaders testified in support of the REPAIR Act, arguing that car manufacturers are increasingly restricting access to critical repair data. The bill aims to ensure consumers have access to vehicle data for maintenance and repairs.
Federal Right To Repair Legislation Back The Spotlight
The federal REPAIR Act was reintroduced to Congress in early 2025 to ensure vehicle owners and independent shops have the same access to diagnostics and tools as franchised dealers. The move comes alongside a competing proposal called the SAFE REPAIR Act from a coalition of automakers.
Small businesses need the Right to Repair
This article highlights the bipartisan advancement of the REPAIR Act (H.R. 1566) during a House Subcommittee hearing. It argues that the bill is essential for independent repair shops to access the diagnostic tools and software necessary for modern vehicle maintenance.
Source Information
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
REPAIR Act
Data Sources
Sponsor
Cosponsors
(44)Analysis generated by AI. Always verify with official sources.