Under European legislation on the type approval of cars and vans (Regulation no. 715/2007), vehicle manufacturers are required to ensure full and non-discriminatory access to vehicle on-board diagnostic (OBD) and repair and maintenance information (RMI) to independent operators. The study into the system of vehicle repair and maintenance information is being carried out by Ricardo-AEA.

Car manufactures continue to improve the technology and efficiency of their vehicles, which has led to greater complexities in vehicle maintenance. With consumers facing greater challenges in spending decisions, it’s essential for the survival and growth of the independent vehicle repair aftermarket that they continue to see value from vehicle maintenance services. The European regulations aim to create a more level playing field for independent operators, to ensure the mutually beneficial improvement of business opportunities and consumer value, combined with well-maintained vehicles that are safer and have a lower impact on the environment.  

This review of the performance of the system of access to vehicle repair and maintenance information will help the European Commission to determine whether a revised framework Directive on Type Approval is required covering all of the provisions governing access to vehicle RMI, and whether it would be beneficial to introduce further legislative measures in support of access to RMI.

The study will provide insight into the impacts that the requirement for access to vehicle repair and maintenance information has had on relevant stakeholders including repairers, parts producers, distributors and publishers of technical information, as well as vehicle manufacturers themselves.

The study in vehicle repair and maintenance information will be publically available towards the end of 2014. For more information on the study, or if you would like to participate, please contact the study team at VehicleRMI@Ricardo-AEA.com.