AIA Canada members met with Members of Parliament (MPs) and key political figures from across the country on October 17 to advocate for the right to repair for the auto care industry.

In a press release, AIACanada president JF Champagne stated, “What we asked MPs, and will continue to do so, is to grant Canadian consumers the power of choice when it comes to auto care.

“When it comes to servicing and repairing modern vehicles, access to the vehicle’s diagnostic data is vital. Automakers control this data, including how much is made available and who has access to it —including auto repair shops. Without full and equal access to this data, independent auto repair shops cannot service a vehicle.  

“As a result, Canadian consumers are faced with less choice for where they go for auto repair and can be limited to only the dealership. The right to repair provides consumers with that choice and allows for continued access to essential, reliable and affordable vehicle service and repair.”

Recently, industry and consumers in Quebec scored a major victory when Quebec became the first Canadian province to pass a law on the right to repair that includes the automotive industry.

This sets an important precedent for Canada to follow and adopt a legislation that guarantees consumers the right to repair their automobiles with the service provider of their choice.

JF Champagne commented on this adoption by saying, “We welcome the vision of the Quebec government that has recognized the importance of the right to repair for citizens.”

How to help

AIA Canada encourages all its members to help support the right to repair. You can:

• Speak with your local MP about the right to repair, its impacts on Canadian businesses and consumers, and the importance of having right to repair legislation. 
• Share our message on social media channels by using the #Right2RepairCA 

Click here to learn more about the tools available to advocate for the right to repair.