RE: RE: OT: Right to Repair

From: Bob Mankin (bob@coralfarms.com)
Date: Tue Jan 06 2004 - 23:25:47 EST


> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-dakota-truck@bent.twistedbits.net
> [mailto:owner-dakota-truck@bent.twistedbits.net]On Behalf Of Bernd D.
> Ratsch
> Sent: Tuesday, January 06, 2004 5:58 PM
> To: dakota-truck@dakota-truck.net
> Subject: DML: RE: OT: Right to Repair
>
>
>
> Why Right to Repair Legislation Is Needed
>
> Modern automobiles contain advanced technology that monitors or controls
> virtually every function of the vehicle including the braking system,
> steering mechanism, air bags, ignition, lubrication and emission control
> systems.
>
> * No question on that one *
>
>
> Car owners and independent shops must have full access to the information
> and tools necessary to accurately diagnose, repair, re-program or install
> reliable replacement parts. This information and equipment is
> necessary to
> ensure proper operation of critical safety and emission control systems.
>
> * They DO already have the access to all of the tools (they're
> all listed in
> the FSM's). You can buy Scanners right off the shelf (or internet) to
> diagnose, and purchase all of the parts yourself and even install them
> yourself. HOWEVER, if the person who installed them isn't either properly
> trained or qualified, that could present a problem that
> ultimately...the end
> user will be paying for. *

Nope.

The issue centers around certain OBD-II codes which cannot be diagnosed with
"aftermarket" scanners like the Snap-On, but instead can only be read with
manufacturer/dealership proprietary tools. In DC's case, it's the DRB-III.

I believe this is a rehash of litigation from early last year or the year
before where an organization took the manufacturers to court over this very
issue. The manufacturers were attempting to "lock out" certain diagnostics,
thereby forcing you to visit the dealer should you encounter one of those
codes.

The issue isn't about hourly rates.....yet.....but give them the latitude to
withhold certain codes and you create a situation that is most definitely
not consumer friendly.

Bob



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