The independent aftermarket has seen the renewal of the law regulating its activity until 2028. The so-called Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Regulation aims to promote market freedom in the aftermarket sector, placing special emphasis on the role of the user or end consumer. However, despite its renewal, trade associations for workshops continue to push for improvements to some of its provisions.
This is the case for Conepa, the Spanish Federation of Automotive Workshop Entrepreneurs, which—while positively valuing the progress made—calls on the European Union to ensure that legal regulations include content that promotes market freedom within the EU, to eliminate five “grey areas.”
Firstly, regarding data access, the federation stresses the importance of the European regulations continuing to support and strengthen the role of technical information providers. These content aggregators offer access to technical information from various vehicle manufacturers via platforms. In this regard, Conepa also requests that the guidelines explicitly reflect the need for independent workshops to access maintenance books. Similarly, it emphasizes the importance of ensuring fair access to connected vehicle data.
In terms of the user’s right to choose their repair workshop, especially when it comes to multi-brand facilities, Conepa highlights the need for clear communication with the customer. This includes ensuring that even if the user pays for the repair and the vehicle is under warranty, they do not lose their rights as outlined in the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Regarding spare parts, Conepa argues that not enough progress has been made to facilitate access to so-called “captive parts.” Finally, Conepa urges the European Union to remain sensitive to ongoing technological changes and the barriers that large corporations may impose on SMEs as a result of these shifts.
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