Maine law requires manufacturers to give owners access to repair data

Manufacturers using systems that send vehicle data remotely must provide secure platforms for owners to access repair data and approve others' access. The requirement applies to manufacturers that use remote vehicle-data systems in vehicles sold in Maine. The platform must work across the manufacturer's makes and models and let owners access it through a mobile app. Independent shops and licensed dealers need the owner's permission. Their access lasts for the repair or another period the owner agrees to for maintenance, diagnosis, or repair. Access must include the same mechanical data available to authorized shops and allow vehicle commands when needed for maintenance, diagnosis, or repair. Manufacturers must meet the platform requirement no later than September 1, 2027.

Manufacturers must offer owners and independent repair shops the repair tools and information they offer authorized shops. These requirements cover model year 2002 or later vehicles sold in Maine. Repair tools and information must be available for purchase on fair and reasonable terms. Online repair information must offer daily, monthly, and yearly subscriptions. For model years 2002–2017, owners and shops with owner permission must receive the same access to onboard repair information as new vehicle dealers. For model year 2018 or later, access must use a computer meeting the manufacturer's specifications and one of the listed standard interfaces or onboard systems. Owners and independent shops with owner permission must receive the parts, tools, software, and other components needed for a full repair.

The Motor Vehicle Right to Repair Commission must monitor manufacturers' compliance and try to resolve complaints from owners and independent shops. The Governor appoints 12 members representing vehicle and repair businesses, cybersecurity expertise, and the public. The public representative must live in Maine and chairs the commission. If informal efforts fail, the commission must consider referring the complaint to the Attorney General for possible enforcement. The commission must name technical experts for the Attorney General to consult and may recommend practices for data access and seek input on privacy. The Attorney General may provide administrative support using existing resources. The commission must meet at least quarterly. Its reports to the Governor, Attorney General, and legislative business committee are due by January 15, 2028, and annually thereafter.

The Attorney General may enforce repair-access rules, and owners or independent shops with owner permission may sue over unlawful denial of mechanical data. Private lawsuits cover vehicle owners and independent repair shops with owner permission that are denied mechanical data in violation of the law. The Attorney General may seek a court order to stop violations and a civil penalty of up to $10,000 for each violation. For each unlawful denial of data access, an eligible owner or shop may seek three times the damages or $10,000, whichever is greater.