TIA supports Right to Repair Act, says ready access to data needed for computerized TPMS

National Right to Repair legislation is being endorsed by the Tire Industry Association (TIA), which “strongly urges” Congress to pass House Resolution 2694, known as the Motor Vehicle Owners’ Right to Repair Act.

The measure can ensure that “car owners and their trusted repair shops have the same access to safety alerts and repair information as the franchised new car dealer network,” according to the TIA.

“We have always supported Right to Repair, but because most new vehicles are equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) that are controlled by computers, we felt compelled to formally state our position,” says Roy Littlefield, TIA executive vice president. “TPMS systems cannot take the place of regular maintenance on tires, but are intended to protect motorists from the dangers of operating a vehicle with under-inflated tires. Keeping these systems updated and in safe working condition requires ready access to complete and accurate information from the car companies.”

The legislative intent of the Right to Repair Act is to offer protections for vehicle owners by making it illegal for vehicle manufacturers to withhold information necessary to diagnose, service or repair motor vehicles. Right to Repair ensures that car owners can have their vehicle serviced at the repair shop of their choice, whether it’s their neighborhood repair shop or a franchised new car dealer.