By Edward Salamy, Executive Director, ABPA

In late March, the Automotive Body Parts Association (ABPA) proudly released a groundbreaking consumer research report titled “Hard Hits, High Costs: How Design Patents on Crash Parts Harm Consumers.” Authored by Dr. Blaire O’Neal, this report offers a compelling examination of how design patents are increasingly weaponized by automakers to restrict competition and inflate repair costs—ultimately hurting everyday consumers.

While the timing of the release was strategically aligned with the introduction of pro-aftermarket legislation by the CAR Coalition—it unfortunately coincided with the announcement of sweeping new tariffs by President Trump. As a result, media attention that would have otherwise highlighted the critical findings of Dr. O’Neal’s report was understandably diverted.

Despite this challenge, the message of the report continues to gain momentum. Dr. O’Neal personally presented the findings at the 2025 ABPA Business Conference in Sarasota to an audience of industry professionals, where her work was met with strong support and recognition for its clarity, depth, and urgency.

Hard Hits, High Costs is not only a timely piece of scholarship, but also an essential tool for stakeholders across the automotive repair industry. We strongly encourage ABPA members, repairers, insurers, consumer advocates, and policymakers to read and share this important report.

The full report is available on the ABPA website at:
www.autobpa.com/abpa-consumer-research-report-2025

Let’s keep the conversation going—and ensure that the facts remain front and center in the ongoing fight to protect consumer rights and promote fair competition.