Leesburg, Va., (November 19, 2009) - The
National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF) announced today that Jaguar Land
Rover North America, LLC has signed the NASTF Service Information Standards
Agreement, joining thirteen other auto manufacturers agreeing to make service
and training information and tools accessible to all vehicle repairers on an
equal basis. Much of the Standards embody the practices that have been in place
for over six years, with the addition of a binding arbitration backstop included
in the NASTF Dispute Resolution Process. Charlie Gorman, chairman of NASTF, said
“We are pleased to welcome Jaguar Land Rover to the dedicated group of OEM
vehicle manufacturers committed to providing service information to the
independent aftermarket. It’s one more step in a unified, progressive, effective
NASTF.”
The Standards have three parts: Definitions,
Automotive Service Information Standards, and Information Request and Resolution
Process. The Definitions clearly define what’s covered and what’s not
covered. The Standards stipulate how OEMs will ensure open accessibility. And
the Information Request and Resolution Process provides the means, including the
possibility of binding arbitration if needed, in which to identify and assess
any potential information gaps.
The remaining manufacturers have the agreement
in various stages of review and approval. OEMs that have previously signed the
agreement include Volvo, Subaru, Ford, Toyota, Volkswagen, Nissan, Hyundai,
Mazda, Honda, Suzuki, Kia, Mitsubishi, and Mercedes.
NASTF was established in 2000 to identify,
communicate and resolve gaps in the availability and accessibility of automotive
service information, service training, diagnostic tools, and equipment for the
benefit of automotive service professionals and their customers. NASTF was
incorporated in 2006. Additional details can be found at www.nastf.org.
As a 501(c)6 not-for profit organization,
NASTF takes no position on any legislation that may be proposed or pending in
state or national legislative bodies.