Rising repair costs and restricted access to parts are impacting drivers nationwide. Learn how the REPAIR and SMART Acts help preserve competition and keep repairs affordable.

The automotive repair marketplace is undergoing significant change. Recent actions by automakers and evolving industry dynamics are limiting access to parts and increasing repair costs for consumers.

At the same time, these changes are contributing to higher insurance premiums and a growing number of vehicles being declared total losses—even in cases of relatively minor damage.

The REPAIR and SMART Acts are designed to address these challenges by protecting competition, preserving consumer choice, and ensuring access to safe, affordable replacement parts.

What’s Happening

• Automakers are increasing control over replacement parts and repair processes
• Design patent enforcement and related actions are restricting the availability of alternative parts
• Fewer repair options are driving up costs for consumers and insurers
• These trends are reducing competition across the collision repair marketplace

Why It Matters

For Consumers

• Higher out-of-pocket repair costs
• Increased insurance premiums
• Reduced ability to choose cost-effective repair options

For the Industry

• Limited access to parts for repair shops
• Reduced competition among suppliers
• Increased pressure on repair timelines and costs

How the REPAIR & SMART Acts Help

REPAIR Act

• Ensures access to vehicle data necessary for proper repairs
• Supports a competitive and transparent repair marketplace
• Protects consumer choice in where and how vehicles are repaired

SMART Act

• Establishes reasonable limits on design patent enforcement
• Preserves the availability of high-quality aftermarket parts
• Promotes competition and helps control repair costs

Impact Across the Market

Insurers

• Higher claim severity
• Increased total loss frequency
• Upward pressure on premiums

Repair Shops

• Limited sourcing options for parts
• Increased repair complexity
• Delays due to restricted availability

Consumers

• Fewer affordable repair options
• Longer repair times
• Higher overall cost of vehicle ownership

Learn More. Share the Message. Support Consumer Choice.

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