NATA POSITION ON 'RIGHT TO REPAIR' Brief Summary: NATA (National Automotive Trades Association, since 1947) represents some 5,000 independent auto repair businesses across Canada. NATA seeks a voluntary agreement with Canadian auto manufacturers on technical information access, similar to that which is in place in the United States - National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF). Our approach differs from the "Right to repair" campaign, which seeks a legislated solution to the issue. The term "Right to repair" has acquired a negative connotation among Canadian auto manufacturers, so in order to differentiate our campaign we chose to call it VISTA (Vehicle Information & Service Tool Agreement). We have asked the federal government to assist us in getting the auto manufacturers to the negotiating table. The Canadian consumer's freedom of choice must be protected. Existing competition laws were designed to protect that choice. Federal and provincial safety and emissions regulations depend on the industry's ability to maintain the fleet. The OEM dealer network does not have the capacity to service the entire fleet. Many Canadians, particularly in rural areas are located long distances from the nearest dealership. Vehicle technology is now so computerized that few repairs and services can be performed without the proper tools and information. This affects most segments of the industry, from mechanical repair to collision repair, locksmiths, auto glass, tire shops, towing, etc. NATA suggests that Canadian auto manufacturers look upon the independent automotive service industry as partners in customer satisfaction, because the consumer's overall satisfaction with vehicle ownership is greatly affected by the ability to obtain quality repairs and service economically and conveniently, whether at the dealership or the neighbourhood garage.