Wed Sep 18 06:36:53 UTC 2024: ## Honda Australia Fined for Restricting Access to Repair Information
Honda Australia has been slapped with a $18,780 penalty for allegedly breaching the Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information Sharing (MVIS) scheme. This is the first time the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has issued an infringement notice for a violation of the MVIS scheme, which came into effect in July 2022.
The MVIS scheme aims to level the playing field for independent repairers by providing them access to the same diagnostic software and technical information needed to service and repair modern cars. It requires this information to be made available at a fair market value.
The ACCC alleges that Honda Australia, from July 2022 to May 2024, only offered its Honda Diagnostic System Software suite via an annual subscription, denying independent repairers access to more affordable daily or monthly subscriptions. This, according to the ACCC, restricts choice and competition in the repair market.
Honda has since implemented daily, monthly, and annual subscription options for its software, claiming previous limitations were due to “technological limitations”. The company maintains its commitment to customer service and providing a high standard of service across its network.
The ACCC, responsible for enforcing the MVIS scheme, is continuing to monitor compliance and will take further action against any companies found in breach. The watchdog will also release updated industry guidance on the scheme in the coming months.
The Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA) welcomed the penalty notice, stating it demonstrates the ACCC’s commitment to ensuring a fair playing field for independent repairers. They emphasized the need for ongoing monitoring of the MVIS scheme as the Australian car market continues to evolve with new technologies like driver assistance and the growing popularity of hybrid and electric vehicles.
First Piper 