(NAPSI)-A bill before Congress could help put the brakes on increased car repair costs, possibly helping to save seniors, and other Americans, some cash.

Studies show that vehicle repair costs may be up to 25 percent higher at a new-car dealer than at an independent repair shop.

It's thought that cost could be especially burdensome for senior citizens, many of whom are on fixed incomes.

Advocates say the bill, called the Right to Repair Act, could save seniors money by ensuring that they can choose the auto mechanics they use, rather than limiting their options.

A Question Of Choices

Vehicles are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with virtually every system either monitored or controlled by computers.

As a result, servicing these vehicle systems to keep them in safe working condition requires ready access to complete and accurate information from the car companies.

Supporters of the Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act (H.R. 2694) say it was introduced to ensure that car owners and their trusted repair shops have the same access to safety alerts and repair information as the franchised new-car dealer network.

"The fact is that many older Americans rely on trusted neighborhood repair shops to keep their vehicles serviced, repaired and operating safely," says Kathleen Schmatz, president and CEO of the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association.

"Their independence may be severely compromised if they are forced back to the dealer for service and repairs, particularly if there is no dealership in their area."

Voicing Your Opinion

All motorists can voice their opinion on this matter by visiting www.righttorepair.org.

The site lets you send a letter to each of your congressional representatives, urging them to support the Right to Repair Act by adding their names to the growing list of co-sponsors.