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Bill > AB135

WI AB135

The right to repair motor vehicles and providing a penalty. (FE)

summary

Introduced
03/13/2025
In Committee
03/13/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2025-2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill prohibits motor vehicle manufacturers from employing certain barriers that impair the ability of the motor vehicle owners and the persons that repair motor vehicles from accessing motor vehicles[ vehicle-generated data, critical repair information, or tools in order to repair the motor vehicles; that affect motor vehicle owners[ ability to use a vehicle towing provider or service provider of their choice; or that affect motor vehicle owners[ abilities to diagnose, repair, and maintain their vehicle in the same manner as would the motor vehicle manufacturer. The bill also prohibits motor vehicle manufacturers from employing certain barriers that affect the ability of aftermarket parts manufacturers, aftermarket parts remanufacturers, motor vehicle equipment manufacturers, motor vehicle repair facilities, distributors, or service providers to produce or offer compatible aftermarket parts. Additionally, the bill requires motor vehicle manufacturers to provide to motor vehicle owners and certain other entities access to certain data and tools related to the repair of the motor vehicles it manufactures. The bill also prohibits motor vehicle manufacturers from making certain mandates in regards to what parts, tools, or equipment must be used on its vehicles. A manufacturer that violates a provision of the bill is subject to a forfeiture of $10,000 per violation. For further information see the state fiscal estimate, which will be printed as an appendix to this bill.

AI Summary

This bill establishes comprehensive "right to repair" regulations for motor vehicles, requiring manufacturers to provide owners, repair facilities, and aftermarket parts manufacturers with unrestricted access to vehicle-generated data, critical repair information, and tools necessary for vehicle diagnosis and maintenance. The bill defines key terms such as "aftermarket parts" (replacement parts sold after the vehicle's initial production), "barriers" (restrictions that make repair more difficult), and "vehicle-generated data" (real-time vehicle operation information related to diagnostics and repairs). Manufacturers are prohibited from creating technological or legal barriers that impede an owner's ability to repair their own vehicle, choose their preferred repair facility, or use aftermarket parts. The bill mandates that manufacturers provide access to vehicle data and repair information without fees or restrictive licensing, and prevents manufacturers from mandating or strongly recommending specific repair parts or tools, except for recall and warranty repairs. Manufacturers who violate these provisions can be subjected to a $10,000 penalty for each violation, with each separate act and each day of continued violation potentially constituting a distinct violation. The legislation aims to promote consumer choice, competition in the automotive repair market, and transparency in vehicle maintenance.

Committee Categories

Government Affairs

Sponsors (22)

Last Action

Fiscal estimate received (on 04/24/2025)

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