Belron welcomes the decision on 17 January 2025 by the German courts in the proceedings against Stellantis which reinforces the law that barriers imposed by vehicle manufacturers to access car data are illegal.

In its judgment, the Higher Regional Court of Cologne (HRCC) dismissed an appeal* by Stellantis in favour of Carglass® Germany and ATU, ruling that barriers imposed by vehicle manufacturers to access car data are illegal. This judgment reinforces the clear position outlined by the European Court of Justice on 5 October 2023 and marks the third victory for a fair and level playing field in the European automotive aftermarket.

Vehicle manufacturers are increasingly obstructing access to vehicle data needed by the aftermarket to undertake repairs. They are creating barriers to vehicle data through technical hurdles such as the ‘secure gateway’. These barriers add unnecessary cost and affect free competition in the aftermarket, as well as consumers’ freedom of choice, which can lead to higher prices.

Belron remains committed to ongoing dialogue with industry participants and the European Commission to ensure any new regulation addressing access to vehicle data maintains free and fair competition and reflects the principles outlined in this judgement.

Carlos Brito, CEO of Belron**, commented: “We are pleased with this latest ruling by the German courts that upholds the law that barriers imposed by vehicle manufacturers to car data is illegal.

“This judgement will ensure a level playing field in the automotive repair industry. It emphasises the need for independent repairers to have seamless access to vehicle data for essential services, without unnecessary barriers. This is crucial to maintain customer choice and competitive pricing offered by independent repairers.”