# Labour promises right to repair for cars

> Labour's right to repair policy could cut car repair costs by 25% for New Zealanders.
- Title: Labour promises right to repair for cars · RNZ | Shortify
- Summary: Labour's right to repair policy could cut car repair costs by 25% for New Zealanders. Labour pledges right to repair for cars to lower costs for independent…
- Keywords: labour, right to repair, cars, new zealand, independent mechanics, fuel tax, nzta, commerce commission, politics, news, promises, right
- Source: RNZ — https://rnz.co.nz/news/politics_election-2026/1739653/labour-promises-right-to-repair-for-cars
- Author: RNZ | Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa
- Published: 2026-10-05T00:26:22+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: labour, right to repair, cars, new zealand, independent mechanics, fuel tax, nzta, commerce commission, politics, news
## Labour announces right to repair policy
Labour promises right to repair for cars to ensure independent mechanics access manuals, software and tools.
## Workshops face repair access issues
Independent mechanics cannot complete repairs due to locked software in modern vehicles.
## Williams explains repair challenges
Mechanics can fix problems but cannot turn off dashboard lights without manufacturer approval.
## Repair costs exceed $150 per service
Independent mechanics face $150+ costs to complete repairs without manufacturer approval.
## Australia's repair policy saves $2.5b
Australia's right to repair policy saved motorists $2.5b annually through cheaper repairs.
## New Zealand's complex car fleet
New Zealand's second-hand car imports create more complex repair challenges than Australia.
## Labour targets other products next
Labour plans to expand right to repair to other products after starting with cars.
## Fuel tax freeze and competition policies
Labour promises fuel tax freeze, no-penalty cancellations and competition-driven fuel pricing.
## Key takeaway

Labour pledges right to repair for cars to lower costs for independent mechanics and consumers.