WASHINGTON, June 29 - President Donald Trump signed a memorandum on Monday endorsing greater ability for Americans to carry out repairs on their own vehicles. The memorandum is presented as a measure to ease barriers that can make vehicle repairs more costly and less accessible to consumers.
Federal law, however, still contains a clear restriction: it is illegal to tamper with emissions-control systems. That statutory prohibition remains in place and continues to limit some repair activity.
Automakers have for years limited what independent repair shops and vehicle owners can access. Those limitations include restricted entry to proprietary diagnostic software, manufacturer repair information and certain specialized tools required for modern vehicle maintenance.
Proponents of a so-called right-to-repair movement argue these restrictions raise repair costs and constrain consumer choice by making it harder for independent mechanics and owners to perform maintenance and fixes. Automakers counter that access controls serve important functions - they say the restrictions are intended to protect vehicle safety, guard against cybersecurity vulnerabilities and help ensure compliance with emissions rules.
In explaining the rationale behind his action, the president said the memorandum continues an effort he advanced earlier in the year that addressed farm equipment and non-road machinery. He said the step was prompted by reports that some people had faced legal consequences after attempting to repair their own vehicles.
"It's really common sense," the president said, adding that many Americans often know how to fix their own cars as well as, or better than, professional mechanics.
Key context included in the memorandum and surrounding debate:
- Federal law still prohibits tampering with emissions-control systems.
- Automakers restrict access to diagnostic software, repair information and specialized tools.
- Right-to-repair advocates say restrictions increase costs and limit choice; automakers say restrictions protect safety, cybersecurity and emissions compliance.
This memorandum marks a continuation of a policy theme earlier in the year addressing access to repair for agricultural and off-road equipment, and it responds to accounts of legal consequences for individuals who performed their own vehicle repairs.