Trump Signs Memo Backing Right To Repair Vehicles

The memorandum supports Americans’ ability to fix their own cars while highlighting ongoing disputes over diagnostic software, specialized tools and access to repair information.

By yourNEWS Media Newsroom

President Donald Trump signed a memorandum Monday supporting Americans’ ability to repair their own vehicles, expanding his administration’s focus on right-to-repair policies.

The action addresses long-running complaints from vehicle owners and independent mechanics who say automakers have restricted access to diagnostic software, repair data and specialized tools needed to service modern cars.

Although Americans are generally allowed to repair their own vehicles, federal law prohibits tampering with emissions-control systems. Automakers have also limited access to certain repair systems, arguing that restrictions are necessary to protect vehicle safety, cybersecurity and compliance with emissions rules.

Right-to-repair advocates argue those limits raise repair costs, reduce consumer choice and make it harder for independent shops to compete with dealership service departments.

Trump said the memorandum follows a similar order he signed earlier this year involving farm equipment and nonroad machinery. He said the vehicle policy was prompted by reports that some people had faced legal consequences for repairing their own vehicles.

“It’s really common sense,” Trump said.

The president said many Americans are capable of repairing their own cars and, in some cases, may be better at fixing vehicles than professional mechanics.

The memo does not eliminate federal restrictions on emissions-system tampering, but it signals support for broader repair access and consumer choice in the auto market.

The issue has become more prominent as vehicles increasingly depend on software, sensors and manufacturer-controlled systems. Independent repair shops say access to those systems is essential for routine maintenance and repairs, while automakers say greater access could create risks involving safety, security and regulatory compliance.

Trump’s action places vehicle repairs alongside farm equipment as part of a broader administration push to support owners’ ability to fix the products they buy.