The European Garage Equipment Association Joins the Global Right to Repair Movement for Vehicles

Automotive Aftermarket Releases Best Practice Guidelines for Legislators

BRUSSELS – March 09, 2023 – EGEA has joined other global association leaders to support the critical global right to repair movement by signing the new right to repair position statement. The statement enumerates the core beliefs of the movement and the objectives and intended outcomes of right to repair legislation. Importantly, the document sets forth 10 best practice principles to developing a framework for right to repair legislation that any supporting country can use and adapt them to their needs.

Globally, the automotive aftermarket keeps 1.5 billion vehicles on the road while contributing $1.8 trillion to the global economy. After vehicles exit their warranty period, independent repair shops perform 70% of repairs. This vibrant industry and the consumer choice that it creates is being threatened by automotive manufacturers that block access to wirelessly transmitted vehicle repair and maintenance data.

Without the convenience and choice of independent parts and repair, especially in suburban and rural communities, consumers will have limited access to affordable vehicle service and repair. These restrictions can have catastrophic effects on local economies and the well-being and safety of millions that rely on vehicle transportation daily.

In Europe, the automotive retail and service sector employs more than 4.5 million people, in more than 500,000 companies, mostly SMEs, and services approximately 400,000,000 vehicles in circulation. The total revenue of the European vehicle aftermarket was estimated to be around €400 billion in 2020, with a steady growth rate of around 3% per year. This revenue includes sales of spare parts, accessories, and services provided by workshops.

Frank Beaujean, president of EGEA said:

“The right to repair is essential for our industry and our customers. It promotes healthy competition and supports sustainability. We must advocate for this right and work with policymakers to protect it.”

Both Australia and South Africa have successfully retained their drivers’ right to repair their vehicles.  These countries are a model for similar legislation in Europe that levels the playing field and keeps the consumer at the heart of decision-making across the transportation ecosystem.

Read the full position statement here.

Organizations interested in supporting the right to repair vehicles of all classes can contact sg@egea-association.eu to join the global movement.