Following the implementation of Bill 29 in Quebec, which came into force late in 2025, Right to Repair is now moving from debate to real world impact.

There is now a clear understanding of the need to provide better access to automotive parts and vehicle repair information. While we have seen some updates to federal copyright law that have removed legal barriers, this does not fully address the issue of access to automotive data.

National framework

That’s why it’s imperative that we focus on advancing a national, auto-specific framework that protects consumer choice and supports independent automotive service providers.

In February, MNP released a report entitled Unlocking Access: Why Right to Repair Matters for Every Vehicle Owner. In this report, it was revealed that:

Drivers can save up to 30 percent (about $500) on common repairs, and up to 80 percent on labour-intensive or complex repairs, when using aftermarket parts at reputable independent shops

Limited access to repair data could cost independent shops as much as $336 million annually across Canada.

Rural drivers face higher repair costs, making local independent shops essential where dealerships are hours away.

In essence, it revealed that without federal action on this issue, affordability, consumer choice and local jobs are at risk.

From this AIA Canada put together its Parliament Hill Day, where the association met with high profile decision makers to continue advocating for a robust federal Right to Repair framework.

Barriers remain

Yet there remains a lot more to be done. As we edge further into 2026, the most pressing concern for the aftermarket auto care sector is inconsistent and restricted access to in-vehicle data. Secure gateways, original equipment manufacturer (OEM)-controlled portals, and subscription-based access models still often prevent independent shops from completing routine diagnostics or resets. These barriers add time and cost, particularly for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) calibration, electric vehicle (EV) service, and software updates.

This situation is amplified by growing vehicle complexity and this lack of standardized affordable information access, threatens repair viability and ultimately consumer choice.

Besides providing a clear understanding of the need to provide better access to repair information, Bill 29 also highlights a significant risk in having a fragmented regulatory landscape across Canada if other provinces do not follow suit with their own defined standards around Right to Repair.

Besides continuing its direct engagement with members of parliament and government officials, AIA Canada is also aligning its messaging with broader national priorities such as domestic business support and growth, affordability, emissions reduction, and workforce sustainability. These efforts ensure the auto care sector’s perspective remains visible as Parliament considers future digital and consumer-focused legislation.

Individual involvement

Within this framework, individual involvement remains one of the strongest advocacy tools we have as an industry. Shop owners and technicians can support Right to Repair by engaging directly with MPs, sharing examples of delayed or incomplete repairs, and participating in AIA Canada campaigns. Grassroots efforts are most effective when they focus on real-world impacts—vehicle downtime, higher costs, and lost consumer choice. Consistent, local stories continue to resonate most strongly with decision-makers. For more details visit www.RightToRepair.ca