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John,
You may have noticed that car repair bills keep climbing, even when the fix itself appears simple.
It's not just inflation, and it's not because mechanics suddenly got more expensive. Today's cars are increasingly software-driven computers on wheels, and manufacturers often tightly control the digital tools needed to diagnose and repair them.[1]
That shift is driving up repair costs, delaying service and limiting where drivers can take their cars.
As more vehicle systems move behind digital barriers, routine repairs are taking longer, they are costing more and becoming harder for local shops to complete.
Here are three reasons why car repairs are becoming more expensive:
First, manufacturers keep exclusive control over wireless vehicle data.
Most newer vehicles constantly transmit diagnostic information back to the manufacturer through systems known as telematics.[2] While these systems can alert drivers to maintenance needs, the underlying data typically goes only to dealerships -- not vehicle owners or independent repair shops.
This can give dealerships a real head start. Dealerships can use this data to proactively contact drivers, order parts and schedule repairs. But local mechanics must wait until a car arrives to begin diagnosing a problem.[3]
Over time, this means longer repair timelines, fewer choices for drivers and higher costs.
Second, accessing repair software is increasingly expensive.
Even basic maintenance now depends on proprietary software that's often controlled by manufacturers. Independent repair shops have to pay for brand-specific tools, software subscriptions and short-term access licenses just to perform standard repairs.[4]
These costs add up quickly. Shops working across multiple manufacturers face a confusing patchwork of systems, licenses and requirements, many of which change from year to year.
The result is higher maintenance bills for drivers, boosted insurance premiums for repairs, more delays and added costs for repair shops and mechanics.[5]
Third, manufacturers are expanding the use of digital "secure gateways."
These gateways prevent access to vehicle systems unless a mechanic pays for manufacturer approval.[6] Once limited to high-security functions, they now affect even routine services like brake replacements and oil changes.
Mechanics report that even simple maintenance increasingly requires software authorization. Getting such authorization increases repair time, complexity and overall cost.
That's why we are supporting strong vehicle Right to Repair laws that would require manufacturers to provide fair access to the vehicle data, software and tools needed for repair.[7]
Such access would help independent shops compete, give drivers real choices in where they service their cars and keep repairs faster and more affordable.
Several states have already shown how these protections can strengthen local repair markets and reduce unnecessary costs for drivers.[8]
Now we're trying to expand vehicle Right to Repair at both the state and federal level, working alongside independent mechanics and car owners who simply want access to quick, affordable repairs.
Thank you for standing with us,
Faye Park
President
P.S. We're working to get Right to Repair legislation passed across the country, from vehicles to electronics and consumer appliances. Will you donate today to support this work?
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1. Jack Frimet, "3 reasons your car repair bill is more expensive," PIRG, November 24, 2025.
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2. Jack Frimet, "3 reasons your car repair bill is more expensive," PIRG, November 24, 2025.
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3. Jack Frimet, "3 reasons your car repair bill is more expensive," PIRG, November 24, 2025.
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4. Jack Frimet, "3 reasons your car repair bill is more expensive," PIRG, November 24, 2025.
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5. Jack Frimet, "3 reasons your car repair bill is more expensive," PIRG, November 24, 2025.
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6. Jack Frimet, "3 reasons your car repair bill is more expensive," PIRG, November 24, 2025.
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7. Nathan Proctor, "The State of Right to Repair," PIRG, January 23, 2025.
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8. Jack Frimet, "3 reasons your car repair bill is more expensive," PIRG, November 24, 2025.
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U.S. PIRG
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