New study finds gap between car data rules and real-world access
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A study prepared for FIA Region I by SBD Automotive and VESOS looks at how carmakers apply the EU Data Act, what the revised Annex X changes, and what it means for drivers, independent garages and mobility clubs.
Brussels, 9 November 2026.
FIA Region I publishes the findings of a study on access to vehicle data, carried out by SBD Automotive. The study examines the EU Data Act and the revised Annex X to the Type-Approval Regulation, analyses how ten carmakers are meeting their obligations, and assesses twelve digital services that mobility clubs could offer, based on stakeholder feedback.
The main finding is that compliance does not mean easy access. Among the ten carmakers assessed in the study, approaches to the Data Act differ: some are well positioned to share data while others remain restrictive in practice, and most do not publish their prices for third-party data access. As described in the study, under Annex X, only basic OBD access remains free, while server-based services may be charged.
Annex X entered into force in June 2026 and will be phased in until 2028. It gives independent repairers access to advanced functions such as diagnostics, coding, software updates, and ADAS and EV battery information. However, carmakers also gain stronger powers to restrict access on cybersecurity grounds, so the practical conditions of access still matter as much as the rights themselves.
For drivers, the picture is mixed. Awareness of the Data Act remains low, and the consent process is still too complicated. Yet the data now available, from vehicle status and fault codes to battery information for electric vehicles, can help detect problems earlier and speed up breakdown assistance.
Services such as roadside assistance and preventive maintenance are among the most promising near-term benefits for drivers. However, inconsistent data sets between brands, uncertainty over uptime and the cost of always-on access still stand in the way.
“The Data Act and the revised Annex X are important steps towards improving access to vehicle data. But rights on paper will make little difference unless drivers and independent service providers can access that data in practice – reliably, consistently and at a fair and transparent cost. That is what will determine whether connected-vehicle data delivers real benefits for consumers, from better roadside assistance and maintenance to greater choice,” said Diogo Pinto, Director General of FIA Region I.
As the voice of motorists and mobility consumers, FIA Region I welcomes the upcoming Automotive Industry Dialogue as an opportunity to make progress on consistent data, transparent pricing and a simple standard consent process and access to data on demand, and will continue to push for access that works in practice for drivers. The organisation will also work with its member clubs to raise driver awareness of their new rights and support repairers in using the new access channels.
https://www.fiaregion1.com/expert-study-access-to-vehicle-data-in-practi...
About FIA Region I
FIA Region I represents the interests of mobility and touring organisations across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. It brings together more than 100 Member Clubs in over 50 countries, working to promote safe, affordable, sustainable and accessible mobility for all. Through its advocacy, policy work and initiatives, FIA Region I represents the interests of motorists and mobility consumers at European and international level.
Press contact: Marko Milutinovic, Communications Manager, FIA Region I,
