Key facts
- President Donald Trump signed a memorandum on Monday to support Americans' ability to repair their own vehicles.
- The memorandum aims to counter restrictions imposed by automakers on access to diagnostic software, repair information, and specialized tools.
- Right-to-repair advocates contend these restrictions lead to higher repair costs and reduced consumer choice.
- Automakers argue their restrictions are necessary for vehicle safety, cybersecurity, and emissions compliance.
- Trump stated this action follows a similar order he issued earlier this year concerning farm and non-road machinery.
- The memorandum is intended to protect the right to fix vehicles and allow for more aftermarket parts.
President Donald Trump signed a memorandum on Monday aimed at making it easier for Americans to repair their own vehicles, a move that supports the "right-to-repair" movement.
While federal law generally permits individuals to repair their vehicles, automakers have historically restricted independent mechanics' and owners' access to diagnostic software, repair information, and specialized tools. Right-to-repair advocates argue these limitations increase repair costs and limit consumer options. Automakers, however, maintain these restrictions are crucial for ensuring vehicle safety, cybersecurity, and emissions compliance.
Trump stated that this action is a continuation of a similar order he issued earlier this year concerning farm equipment and non-road machinery. He expressed that the decision was prompted by reports of individuals facing legal consequences for repairing their own cars, calling the move "common sense."
Earlier reports indicated that auto executives from General Motors and Ford, along with businessman Roger Penske, met with Trump to discuss legislation that could potentially restrict owners from repairing their own vehicles. Ford confirmed that its president of Ford Blue and Model-E, Andrew Frick, met with Trump to discuss vehicle repair issues. Industry groups like the Alliance for Auto Innovation have cited security and safety risks as reasons for limiting unrestricted access to onboard computer data, though they also express willingness to work with independent repair shops.