United States. The U.S. Copyright Office has officially approved a petition from MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers for a new exemption to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA).
This will allow consumers and those acting on their behalf to access and share telematics and vehicle operation data with independent repairers. This decision, also supported by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), opposes the arguments of automakers, who consider that the REPAIR Act could violate copyrights and pose cybersecurity risks.
The Copyright Office sided with the providers, arguing that advanced vehicle technology has raised service costs and increased the burden on qualified repairers, who need access to this information to provide effective services. In addition, it concluded that data can be shared securely. The waiver will be in effect until October 2027, strengthening momentum toward passage of the REPAIR Act in 2025.
The initial application was filed by MEMA in August 2023, with support from the DOJ and FTC in March. Critical to diagnosing and anticipating maintenance needs, telematics and vehicle operation data contributes to consumer safety and reduced costs and downtime in repairs.
