With the International Autobody Congress & Exposition (NACE 2009) underway, the Quality Parts Coalition (QPC) underscored its steadfast support of the “Access to Repair Parts Act” (H.R. 3059/S.1368), legislation that ensures American motorists have a choice to use high-quality, low-cost alternative collision repair parts when restoring their vehicles to pre-accident condition. The NACE 2009 theme – “New Realities. New Strategies.” – presents the QPC with an opportunity to show collision repairers, distributors and manufacturers that legislation which guarantees competition and consumer choice benefits every party involved in a repair transaction. *
The hardships threatening the vitality of the automotive industry – including a depleted supply chain and increased cycle time – are squeezing the repairer-customer relationship. These nationwide trends demonstrate the heightened need for the availability of quality, low cost alternatives to costly car company parts. Consumers have enjoyed the benefits associated with the presence of a robust alternative parts industry for 60 years. As consumers re-examine their expenditures at this time of economic distress, the $1.5 billion provided in savings to motorists who utilize alternative repair parts each year is becoming increasingly important. When alternative parts are present, they drive down the cost of car company parts on average 8 percent. In this economic climate, such savings will ensure consumers need not choose between repairing their vehicles and spending on groceries or healthcare.
Car companies, however, are challenging the availability of alternative parts in an effort to shore up their bottom line on the repair side. Since 2005, the number of restrictive design patents granted to the car companies on individual crash parts (such as bumpers, fenders and hoods) has more than doubled. History shows that this anti-competitive practice will drive up the prices of parts and further restrict the supply chain to the detriment of the American consumer.
The QPC urges immediate passage of the “Access to Repair Parts Act,” introduced by Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.) and Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.). Supporters of “Access to Repair Parts Act” range from consumer advocates such as the Consumer Federation of America to insurance industry voices such as the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America to independent repair shops around the country.
“The continuity and affordability that alternative parts provide are desperately needed as we combat the economic disruptions that are spreading through the marketplace,” said Eileen A. Sottile, Quality Parts Coalition executive director and Board member. “Earlier this year, the U.S. government elected to give a break to several car companies. The QPC urges Congress to do the same for consumers across the nation.”
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