November 2024, article from Forbes.

Similar to right-to-repair issues in the technology hardware and agricultural equipment industries (like those involving John Deere), the automobile repair industry is undergoing significant changes as vehicles become increasingly complex. Many repairs now require specialized equipment, often necessitating access to subscription-based software controlled by vehicle manufacturers.

“New cars now feature ‘gateway computers’ — secure systems that manage everything from the vehicle’s engine to safety features, preventing unauthorized access. Fixing a car’s systems requires special tools to enter the gateway.”