Managing Transformation in the Auto Repair Industry Zainal Abidin, 12/08/2025 The auto-repair industry stands at the threshold of transformation, shaped by a convergence of factors: soaring insurance and manufacturing costs, shifting consumer dynamics and advancing automation and technology.And with artificial intelligence, machine learning and cutting-edge innovations revolutionizing the landscape, industry leaders must understand these shifts and chart a new path forward.Navigating the Cost ChallengeAuto insurance costs have skyrocketed, surging nearly 17%. While some of this surge can be attributed to inflation, there are actually multiple factors contributing to this sharp escalation in insurance premiums.Modern vehicles, including rapidly growing numbers of electric cars, have added complexity and costliness to repairs. The post-pandemic resurgence in accidents due to increased road activity has further exacerbated premiums.Simultaneously, manufacturing costs have surged due to labor shortages, supply-chain disruptions and regulatory changes. These mounting costs translate to pricier vehicle parts, extended repair durations and overall higher expenses. Inflated manufacturing expenses can significantly impact the insurance claims process, greatly affecting the affordability of insurance policies.In response to these rising costs, leaders in the repair industry must prioritize streamlining the claims process, fostering cost reductions and improving customer satisfaction.Adapting to Changing Consumer Behavior and Aging VehiclesEscalating insurance and manufacturing costs… Continue Reading
Lawmakers move to repeal parts of Maine’s new automotive right to repair law Zainal Abidin, 06/08/2025 Lawmakers gave initial approval Tuesday to a bill that would undo part of Maine’s new automotive right to repair law that was overwhelmingly approved by voters in November.The law, which went into effect last month, requires car manufacturers to share advanced repair data with car owners and independent mechanics through a standardized platform intended to reduce the cost of accessing the information needed to make repairs.Jacob Sirois works on a Ford F150 at Jason’s Auto Service in Hollis this past fall. Sirois has worked at the shop for about a year and has been working on cars for almost 15 years. Brianna Soukup/Staff PhotographerMembers of the Innovation, Development, Economic Advancement and Business Committee, however, expressed concerns that the current law puts consumers’ privacy and safety at risk and voted out a bill that would amend it by scrapping the standardized platform.Tuesday’s vote was 7-1, with five of 13 members absent. Those lawmakers will have two days to cast votes, but the outcome won’t change. The bill now goes to the full House and Senate for votes.Some lawmakers and right to reform advocates, who believe that the standardized platform is the most impactful aspect of the… Continue Reading