Driving advocacy: Why strong government relations is critical for the future of the auto care sector

The auto care sector stands at a crossroads; technological disruption, regulatory complexity, and evolving expectations unite to reshape who can service vehicles. Strong government relations and purposeful advocacy are not optional for independent repairers, parts suppliers, and service networks; they are strategic imperatives. 

The stakes are real 

Modern vehicles are more than mechanical systems. They are ecosystems of sensors, software, and telematics. Automakers control access to diagnostic data and repair information, often exclusively. In this context, “right-to-repair” is not just a slogan; it is the battleground that will determine whether independent auto care businesses will remain viable. Without legislative protections mandating fair data access, the independent auto care sector risks being marginalized. 

The right to repair initiative showcases this exact risk: vehicles are increasingly connected and data-rich, but automakers control the diagnostic data, which is critical for service. When that control is unchecked, independent repair shops lose choice, affordability and competitive parity. 

Why government relations matter 

Government relations is not just about politics—it is about shaping the future of the auto care industry. From the tools in a repair shop to the rights of vehicle owners, the decisions made by policymakers directly impact how our sector operates and grows. By engaging with government at every level, the industry can protect its interests, secure fair access, and ensure consumers continue to have choice and control. 

Here is why active government relations and advocacy are essential: 

• Regulations shape the landscape: Governments set the ground rules. Emissions standards, data privacy, cybersecurity, and infrastructure policies affect how vehicles are built—and how they may be serviced later. If the auto care sector is not at the table when regulations are written, it risks being treated as an afterthought or even an externality. 

• The right to repair must be enshrined in law: Voluntary agreements, even well-intentioned ones, are fragile. They can be rescinded, ignored, or outpaced by technology. Only through legislation can rights such as remote access to diagnostic data, non-discriminatory pricing, and interoperable standards be preserved and enforced. 

• Engagement enables predictability and influence: Dialogue with policymakers—whether federal, provincial, or municipal—allows the sector to voice real-world concerns, anticipate policy shifts, and propose balanced solutions. Advocates who understand political priorities and timing can position proposals for maximum impact. 

• Mobilizing stakeholders amplifies impact: The most effective advocacy is not top-down. When repair shops, suppliers, consumers, and industry associations speak with a unified voice, they create a compelling narrative and strong political incentives for action. 

Driving impact through advocacy 

Advocacy is not just about influencing policy, it is about shaping the future of the auto care industry and the communities it serves. Purposeful engagement with government delivers tangible benefits, protecting choice, strengthening the workforce, supporting sustainability, and ensuring businesses can plan with confidence. Here is how advocacy creates lasting value: 

• Protecting choice and competition: Strong legislation on fair data access keeps the market open, ensuring independent providers can compete. This preserves consumer choice, lowers costs, and safeguards local service networks, especially in rural and remote areas. 

• Supporting jobs and skills growth: A thriving auto care sector fuels careers for skilled tradespeople, technicians, and small business owners, sustaining jobs and economic activity in communities across Canada. 

• Advancing sustainability: Well-maintained vehicles are cleaner and last longer. When service is restricted or monopolized, deferred maintenance rises—driving up emissions and cutting vehicle lifespans. 

• Enabling strategic certainty: Clear, predictable laws give businesses the confidence to invest in training, tools, technology, and growth. 

What is next? 

The future of the auto care sector depends on more than technical know-how and capital investment. It depends on political will, regulatory foresight, and collective voice. Strong government relations allow enterprises to decipher the political landscape, engage where it matters, and help shape legislation rather than merely accept it. 

If you are part of Canada’s auto care sector—repair shop, parts supplier, or aftermarket innovator—it is imperative that there are active players in this dialogue. To get involved, reach out to your Member of Parliament (MP), become a grassroots champion, or share your story, and help turn policymakers into partners. The health of your business—and the entire auto care ecosystem—may depend on it.