WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump put his signature on a new memorandum Monday that backs Americans’ right to repair their own vehicles.
Although most car owners are already legally allowed to work on their own vehicles, federal law draws the line at tampering with emissions-control systems. On top of that, automakers have long kept independent mechanics and everyday consumers from accessing diagnostic software, repair manuals, and specialized tools needed to fix modern vehicles.
Those in the right-to-repair movement argue that these limitations push repair costs higher and take choices away from consumers. Automakers, on the other hand, contend the restrictions are necessary to ensure vehicle safety, protect against cybersecurity threats, and maintain emissions standards.
Trump described Monday’s action as a follow-up to a similar order he signed earlier this year, which applied to farm equipment and off-road machinery. He said he was moved to act after hearing reports of people facing legal trouble simply for working on their own vehicles.
“It’s really common sense,” Trump said, adding that in his view, many Americans are more capable of repairing their own cars than professional mechanics.
