A lobby group representing multiple automakers sought to overturn the law but had its case dismissed.
Data often ends up in the wrong hands these days, and the Alliance for Automotive Innovation used this concern as the cornerstone of its argument against granting third-party repair shops access to car data for repairs. However, on Tuesday, a federal judge dismissed the group’s challenge, marking a significant win for the right-to-repair movement, even as the broader fight continues.
This battle began in 2020 when Massachusetts passed a bill allowing independent auto shops access to vehicle data. The bill also required car buyers to be informed of their right to service vehicles outside the brand’s network. The Alliance quickly filed a challenge, arguing that the law would undermine the security of automakers and consumers.
According to Reuters, the lobby group claimed the law could also conflict with federal regulations. On the other hand, Massachusetts argued that automakers could route data through a standardized third party, maintaining current security levels without increasing public risk or violating federal law.
What the Alliance seems to overlook is that data breaches can occur even without third-party access. The automotive industry, in particular, is plagued by security vulnerabilities. While the solution isn’t as simple as granting unrestricted access, it also isn’t locking out everyone except automakers. Notably, automakers already share sensitive data and access with locksmiths, setting a precedent for secure third-party arrangements.
The case, initially assigned to a different judge in 2021, was eventually moved to Judge Denise Casper, who dismissed it. For now, the decision remains sealed to allow both sides to redact sensitive details. The Alliance for Automotive Innovation has announced its intention to appeal the ruling.
