Automakers file suit over Maine’s right to repair law
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Independent mechanics struggle to access vehicle diagnostics.
A trade group representing automakers is suing Maine’s attorney general, putting the brakes on implementation of the Right to Repair Law.
The law requires manufacturers to make diagnostic auto repair information available to vehicle owners and independent repair shops, so that owners can choose where to have work done, rather than having to go to a dealer. Maine voters approved the law in 2023, and it became effective Jan. 5 of this year for all vehicles sold in the state, both new and used.
The Washington D.C.-based Alliance for Automotive Innovation filed suit Jan. 31 in federal district court in Bangor, claiming that the state has not met its obligation under the law to designate an independent entity to oversee the process.
“Vehicle manufacturers cannot even begin to attempt to comply with requirements that have not yet been established by an entity that does not yet exist,” the lawsuit stated. “Thus, the threatened enforcement of the Data Law is unconstitutional and unlawful, and/or the Data Law itself is unconstitutionally vague.”
The alliance is also challenging the provision in the law that allows vehicle owners and repair shops to initiate civil action claiming damages up to $10,000 for each denial of access to the diagnostics.
The suit goes on to claim that automakers already provide independent repair facilities “with the same secure access to vehicle, maintenance, and repair data that dealerships enjoy.”
Vehicle diagnostics are in fact available to mechanics only for purchase, with a separate subscription required for each manufacturer. Repair shops tell Mainebiz that subscriptions cost thousands of dollars apiece.
The attorney general’s office has been working with representatives of the coalition, auto dealers, mechanics and other industry representatives since August 2024 to develop a plan to enforce the legislation. The group must submit its findings by Feb. 28.
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