Chris Lapierre, owner of Lapierre’s Auto Repair in Attleboro, MA, believes the “Right to Repair” bill is a step in the right direction, but he is concerned that the cost of new software and machines may result in higher repair costs for his customers.
Below is the article as it appeared on The Sun Chronicle website.
‘It’s a Catch-22’
By SHEF REYNOLDS FOR THE SUN CHRONICLE
Monday, July 12, 2010 2:15 AM EDT
ATTLEBORO, MA – For years, independent auto repair shops and chains have sought access to dealership computer codes that would help them diagnose problems with increasingly complex cars.
The state Senate approved the so-called "Right to Repair" bill last week that would give them that key tool. The legislation moves next to the House and governor for consideration.
The idea is that access to proprietary diagnostics would stimulate competition in the lucrative repair business and be a boon for consumers and corner mechanics, alike.
But, it’s not that simple, the independents say.
Chris Lapierre, owner of Lapierre’s Auto Repair in Attleboro, concedes the legislation is "headed in the right direction."
However, he says price may still be the deciding factor.
"It’s a Catch-22," he said. "The software and machines are often released at such an exorbitant price, buying them all would raise the cost too high for our customers."
To read the entire article, visit The Sun Chronicle website at http://www.thesunchronicle.com/articles/2010/07/12/news/7661884.txt.
