Right To Repair? Auto Dealers Want Control

10:57

July 21, 2010

Check engine light with a dollar sign in the center — If you don't get auto repairs done at the dealer, you might be stuck with the dreaded "Check Engine" light. A proposed law seeks to change that. (Photo illustration by Robert Couse-Baker/Flickr)

Auto dealers versus mechanics — or dealers versus parts manufacturers. Whichever way it's framed, a big fight is taking shape at the State House once again over the so-called right-to-repair bill. Big dollars are involved.

Supporters say the measure will give independent mechanics access to information they need to fix cars. Opponents say the bill would give manufacturers proprietary information.

The Senate has already passed its version of the measure. The House legislation is pending.

Guests:

Arthur Kinsman, coordinator for the Massachusetts Right to Repair Coalition
Charles Territo, communications director for the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers

This program aired on July 21, 2010.