AutoDistribution says it will sue automakers that refuse to provide it with technical data to carry out car repairs.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

“We’ve been fighting for years to get access to carmakers’ technical information and we’re reaching the end of our tether,” said Olivier Van Ruymbeke, CEO of AutoDistribution. The company is France’s largest independent parts and servicing business.


“If it does not happen in the next two to three months, we shall go to court,” said Van Ruymbeke.


In 2002 the EU ordered automakers to pass on technical information about their vehicles to independent garages as part of its new block exemption regime.


Manufacturers had fought to prevent the change because repairs are highly profitable for both automakers and their authorised workshops.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The European Commission is investigating whether Toyota, General Motors, DaimlerChrysler and Fiat have fully complied with repair data regulations.


Van Ruymbeke said automakers are still discriminating against distributors and repairers who do not belong to manufacturers’ own dealer and aftersales networks.


The EU rules on sharing technical data require carmakers to make information available to independent repairers unless the information affects safety and anti-theft devices.


Van Ruymbeke said that exemption is used by carmakers to withhold a lot of information.


Repairers say access to carmakers’ technical information is vital because of the growing electronics content in cars.


Without carmakers’ diagnostic tools and technical information, it’s nearly impossible to detect and fix electronics flaws, claim repairers.


Van Ruymbeke said that, in France, Autodistribution’s main market, the main offenders were the local automakers Renault and PSA/Peugeot-Citroen.


Frederic Saint-Geours, Peugeot managing director, disputed AutoDistribution’s claims. “The block exemption rules are very clear, and we follow them,” he said.


Automotive News Europe