The Hunterdon County Times published the following article on November 18, 2013. To read the full article, click here.

Gusciora and Moriaty ‘Motor Vehicle Owners’ Right to Repair Act’ advanced by Assembly panel

By Hunterdon County Democrat
on November 18, 2013 at 7:15 PM, updated November 18, 2013 at 7:16 PM

(TRENTON) – Legislation Assembly Democrats Reed Gusciora and Paul Moriarty sponsored to protect consumers by requiring vehicle manufacturers to provide owners and independent repair shops with access to the repair information and tools given to automotive dealers was advanced Monday by an Assembly panel.

“This bill frees up car owners to choose between their auto dealer and independent service shops to repair their vehicles,” said Gusciora (D-Mercer/Hunterdon). “Not only does it foster competitive car repair pricing, but it gives consumers the choice where they will bring their cars for servicing. It’s a win-win for car owners and mom-and-pop service stations who want to stay in business.”

“As cars have become more technologically advanced, manufacturers have gained an unfair advantage by forcing owners to rely on dealerships for even the most routine maintenance,” said Moriarty (D-Gloucester/Camden). “Every motorist should have access to the array of diagnostic codes locked into a vehicle’s computer and decide for themselves who they want to service their vehicle.”

Under the bill (A-4336), for motor vehicles model year 2002 and newer, a manufacturer of motor vehicles sold in the state must make available for purchase the same diagnostic and repair information provided to its dealers. The information would be made available to owners and independent repair facilities.