Global Right to Repair Advocates Met in Frankfurt
International groups met to discuss consumer access to vehicle data and fair repair competition.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Auto Parts
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Automotive aftermarket associations from across the globe gathered at Automechanika Frankfurt to advance the international Right to Repair movement. The meeting addressed how modern vehicle technology, including electrification and digitalization, affects independent shop access.
Why it matters
The summit aimed to maintain advocacy momentum for consumer choice and ensure vehicle owners have options for repairs beyond dealership networks. As cars become more connected, securing data access is critical for the affordability and longevity of your vehicle.
The meeting on September 9, 2026, brought together delegates from Europe, North and South America, Africa, Asia, and Oceania to exchange status updates. The group also welcomed the Engineering & Motor Parts Traders Association of Malaysia as a new member.
The players
FIGIEFA
An international federation representing independent automotive aftermarket distributors and their repair networks.
Auto Care Association
A U.S.-based trade organization representing companies that manufacture, distribute, and sell motor vehicle parts.
Engineering & Motor Parts Traders Association of Malaysia
A newly joined regional trade body representing the automotive supply and repair sector in Malaysia.
The details
Delegates reviewed progress on national Right to Repair initiatives and shared practical experiences to support future advocacy phases. A dedicated session examined how vehicle connectivity and electrification create barriers to data access, which is necessary for diagnostics and parts installation. The group plans to continue pushing for regulatory solutions that ensure the digital vehicle ecosystem remains open for independent repairers.
Timeline
September 9, 2026: The global meeting occurred at Automechanika Frankfurt.
The Home Front
This international coordination follows the pattern of the Right to Repair advocacy framework to address the shift toward digital and electric vehicle ecosystems. It highlights a growing effort to ensure that local independent repair shops retain access to the proprietary data needed to service modern cars.
Owners of modern, highly connected vehicles should keep records of all service and maintenance, especially if performed at independent shops. Check your vehicle's manual or manufacturer portal to see what digital diagnostic access is officially provided for your specific model.
The takeaway
The international Right to Repair movement is scaling its efforts to keep the automotive repair market competitive as vehicle connectivity increases. For now, prioritize keeping your vehicle's maintenance records organized in a dedicated file to simplify future service interactions.
Further reading
To understand how shifting vehicle technology impacts your repair options, see our guide on Auto Parts.
Source note: This article includes information reported by AftermarketNews.
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Do you believe independent repair shops should have equal access to vehicle data as manufacturers?
