What Is Right to Repair—and Why Should It Matter to You?
If you've ever wondered whether you have to take your vehicle back to the dealership for every repair, you're not alone. It's one of the most common questions we hear from customers.
The good news is that, in most cases, you have the right to choose where your vehicle is repaired. That's where the Right to Repair movement comes in.
As an independent auto repair shop, we believe our customers deserve the freedom to decide who services their vehicles. We also believe that qualified repair shops should have access to the same repair information and technology needed to keep today's vehicles safe and reliable.
So, What Is Right to Repair?
Today's vehicles are more advanced than ever before. They're filled with computers, sensors, cameras, and sophisticated software that control everything from your engine to your safety systems.
The Right to Repair movement focuses on ensuring that independent repair shops have access to the same repair information, diagnostic tools, software, and service procedures that vehicle manufacturers provide to their dealerships.
Without that access, some repairs become difficult—or even impossible—for qualified independent shops to complete.
Why This Matters to You
For vehicle owners, Right to Repair is really about one thing: choice.
It means you should be able to:
- Choose the repair shop you trust.
- Receive quality repairs without being limited to a dealership.
- Have access to competitive pricing.
- Continue building a relationship with a local shop that knows your vehicle.
- Enjoy convenient scheduling and personalized service.
Most customers simply want honest advice, quality repairs, and the confidence that their vehicle is being repaired correctly. Having repair options helps make that possible.
Independent Shops Invest in Your Vehicle
Modern vehicles require much more than a wrench and a toolbox.
Independent repair shops invest thousands of dollars every year in:
- Advanced diagnostic equipment
- Factory repair information
- Manufacturer software subscriptions
- Specialized tools
- Ongoing technician training and certifications
Our goal is to stay current with changing vehicle technology so we can properly diagnose and repair today's cars, trucks, SUVs, and hybrids.
Why Some Repairs Require More Than Replacing a Part
Many people are surprised to learn that replacing a component often isn't the end of the repair.
For example:
- A new battery may require electronic registration.
- A windshield replacement may require camera calibration.
- Brake or steering repairs may require sensor recalibration.
- Engine or transmission components may require software programming before the vehicle operates properly.
Having access to the correct manufacturer information allows independent repair shops to perform these repairs safely and accurately.
Supporting Your Freedom to Choose
At Dickerson Automotive, we believe that every vehicle owner should have the freedom to decide where their vehicle is serviced.
For more than 26 years, we've invested in the latest equipment, training, and technology so we can provide dealership-level diagnostics while continuing to offer the personalized service of a locally owned repair shop.
Whether you need routine maintenance, a complex diagnosis, or major repairs, our commitment remains the same: provide honest recommendations, quality workmanship, and the information you need to make confident decisions about your vehicle.
Right to Repair isn't just about repair shops—it's about giving drivers the ability to choose where they have their vehicles maintained and repaired.
As vehicles continue to become more advanced, having access to the right tools, information, and technology helps independent repair shops continue serving the communities they care about.
We're grateful that our customers continue to place their trust in us, and we'll keep investing in the equipment, education, and technology needed to keep you safely on the road for years to come.
If you have questions about your vehicle or want to know whether your repair can be performed at an independent shop, our team is always happy to help.