Revealing car codes could mean paying less at the mechanic

Dealership service departments may get a whole lot emptier if a new bill making it's way through the hallowed halls of Washington has anything to say about it. Wired.com illustrates how the Motor Vehicle Owner's Right To Repair Act would allow independent mechanics, and of course car owners, access to manufacturer computer codes previously only revealed to dealerships. These codes allow a mechanic to decipher what a generic "Check Engine" light might mean as well as other systems. The bill is circulating in both the House and the Senate but we're guessing no representatives from Michigan are eager to sign.

[ Via Slashdot ]