Auto Alliance Contact:	Charles Territo (202) 326-5523
AIAM Contact:	Kim Custer (703) 247-2110
ASA Contact:	Caroline Holland (202) 543-1440 c.holland@att.net
For Release:	Immediate News Bulletin PR-58 October 17, 2007

Manufacturers, Independent Repairers Applaud Rep. Westmoreland for His Support of the Service Information Agreement

WASHINGTON, D.C., October 17, 2007 - The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, the Association of International Automobile Manufacturers (AIAM) and the Automotive Service Association (ASA) today thanked Rep. Lynn Westmoreland (R-Ga.) and updated him on the status of a landmark, voluntary service information agreement brokered in 2002. Five years ago Congress challenged the auto industry to come up with a voluntary solution to a problem that existed with independent repairer access to automobile service, repair and training information.

Westmoreland has been a leader in opposing the so-called Motor Vehicle Owners "Right to Repair" Act. He recognizes that because service information is being shared by all sectors of the automotive industry, there is no need for legislation. He has worked hard to ensure that businesses are protected from intellectual property theft.

Dave McCurdy, Alliance CEO, said: "Manufacturers recognize the importance of the independent repair industry and remain committed to ensuring that consumers have the option of having their vehicles serviced by the repairer of their choice. Automakers thank Congressman Westmoreland for his leadership on this issue. He has worked to protect the interests of consumers, repairers and manufacturers.

There is no question that as automobiles and auto repair have become more complex it has become increasingly difficult for technicians, independent repairers and dealerships alike to remain abreast of technology for all of the makes and models they traditionally support. Automotive computers monitor and control everything from airbag safety systems and anti-lock brakes to GPS systems, fuel economy and emissions controls. These systems require that independent repairers invest in the tools, training and equipment necessary to properly service these automobiles.

Mike Stanton, AIAM president and CEO, said: "We believe our customers should be able to seek vehicle repair services wherever reliable and first-rate service is offered. Automakers work very hard to make high-quality cars and trucks, and their reputations could be jeopardized if customers felt they could not go to the service and repair shop of their choosing."

Approximately 75 percent of all post-warranty repairs are performed by independent repair facilities. This voluntary agreement ensures the continuing viability of the automotive service industry and eliminates the need for current and future legislation.

To help resolve service- and repair-related issues, independent repairers are encouraged to work through the National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF). NASTF serves as a forum to identify and resolve gaps involving motor vehicle repair information and tools. This national, voluntary solution has proven to be an effective resource for repairers and manufacturers alike, and over the course of the past six years has become a productive forum for dialogue between independent repairers, other industry stakeholders and automakers, as well as an effective mechanism to help identify and resolve the few information gaps that remain.

Ron Pyle, ASA president and chief staff executive, added: "ASA is proud of the progress made for independent repairers relative to service, training and tool information. The 2002 ASA-Automaker agreement has provided our industry with a model for information that will ensure repairers have the necessary information for the foreseeable future. This model is indicative of the industry's ability to resolve many important issues in the marketplace without government intervention when the automotive industry works together."

The Automotive Service Association is the largest not-for-profit trade association of its kind serving an international membership base that includes numerous affiliate, state and chapter groups from all segments of the automotive service industry. ASA's headquarters is in Bedford, Texas.

ASA advances professionalism and excellence in the automotive repair industry through education, representation and member services. For additional information about ASA, including past news releases, go to www.asashop.org, or visit ASA's legislative Web site at www.TakingTheHill.com.

The Alliance is a trade association of nine car and light truck manufacturers including BMW Group, Chrysler LLC, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Mazda, Mitsubishi Motors, Porsche, Toyota and Volkswagen.

AIAM member companies include American Honda Motor Corp., American Suzuki Motor Corp., Aston Martin Lagonda of North America Inc., Ferrari North America Inc., Hyundai Motor America, Isuzu Motors America Inc., Kia Motors America, Maserati North America Inc., Mitsubishi Motors North America Inc., Nissan North America Inc., Peugeot Motors of America, Renault, SA, Subaru of America and Toyota Motor North America Inc. AIAM also represents original equipment suppliers and other automotive-related trade associations.

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