SPRINGFIELD – A new law sponsored by State Senator John Connor (D-Lockport) and State Representative Dagmara Avelar (D-Bolingbrook), signed Friday, will give vehicle owners the right to choose less expensive parts for car repairs.

“I was proud to work with Representative Avelar on this issue,” Connor said. “This law will save Illinois consumers money when they have to repair or purchase parts for their cars.”

Currently, automobile manufacturers are able to require affiliated independent dealerships to only offer secondary products and warranties directly from the manufacturer. These requirements often drive up the cost of warranties, repairs and parts, placing excessive financial burdens on consumers and creating greater profit for manufacturers. Under the new law, dealerships will be able to offer parts made by other companies.

“Simply put: more choices are better for Illinois consumers,” Connor said.

The law, originally House Bill 2435, will go into effect Jan. 1, 2022.