Why the right to repair needs to be a priority in the new government 

To state that Canadians have had an economically tumultuous start to 2025 would be an understatement. That is particularly the case for the auto care sector, who have been under enormous pressure in the wake of tariffs from the United States. These tariffs have resulted in Canadian manufacturers laying off their employees, and thousands of dollars in additional costs for Canadians looking to purchase a vehicle. These price increases have also driven up demand for used cars, as drivers look to find savings where they can.  

Global tariffs on auto parts have also led to higher costs for vehicle maintenance—a major concern for Canada’s auto care repair shops. Given vehicle costs are already the second highest expenditure for many Canadian households, it is understandable that many drivers are hoping to extend the life of their vehicles for as long as possible, particularly given the current economic outlook.  

Keeping life affordable in the wake of U.S. tariffs was a major focus for all parties in the recent federal election campaign. This is a welcome focus for drivers, and for Canada’s independent auto care businesses which are affected by the downstream consequences of these tariffs. For us, a new government represents more than just a political milestone—it is also a critical opportunity to shape the future of our industry. 

While there is no silver bullet to address these challenges, there are near-term actions the federal government could take to combat rising trade uncertainty, and the impact of tariffs on car costs. At the forefront of keeping repair costs low and accessible is ensuring drivers have the right to repair their vehicles at the shop of their choice.  

The right to repair is about ensuring fair, secure, and timely access to the data, tools, and parts needed to diagnose and repair modern vehicles. This access is foundational to the health and longevity of Canada’s $43.9-billion auto care sector, which employs more than 520,000 Canadians and is integral to communities from coast to coast. 

Despite recent progress, including amendments to the Copyright Act through Bills C-244 and C-294, the current legal framework does not go far enough. Independent repairers are still facing increasing challenges accessing the repair data required to service today’s vehicles—jeopardizing competition, limiting consumer choice and driving up costs at a time Canadians are already grappling with increased car care prices  

Moving early to bring about the right to repair is particularly pressing in the context of international trade and the ongoing tariff dispute. Even if there is relief in the tariff war with the U.S., shifting global supply chains have created volatility in the price and availability of vehicle parts. For businesses that rely heavily on imported components, these disruptions can translate into longer lead times, higher service costs, and dissatisfied customers. 

Right to repair is a direct, strategic response to these challenges. By enabling greater access to competitive parts markets, it reduces dependence on original equipment manufacturer supply chains. It fosters innovation, supports domestic manufacturing, and gives Canadian businesses the flexibility they need to remain competitive in uncertain economic times. It also ensures service equity. In rural and remote communities, where dealership networks may be sparse—or, in some drastic cases, entirely nonexistent—local independent shops are often the only available option.  

Extending the lifespan of vehicles through accessible, affordable repair options also supports Canada’s green economy by reducing material waste, lowering emissions, and promoting a more sustainable, circular economy.  

Negotiating a better trade deal, finding new international customers, and better supporting or domestic manufacturing sectors are critical to bolster Canada’s economic resilience, reduce dependency, and, ultimately, costs for consumers. But those things will take time. Reducing car care costs through the establishment of right to repair is a near-term, practical solution that supports small businesses, and saves Canadians money at a critical time. 

This article by AIA Canada was originally published in The Hill Times on 4 June 2025.