The problem: as vehicles get more sophisticated, they come with more computers. No surprise there--except that troubleshooting and repairing the cars requires specialized equipment these days. And automakers aren't unveiling the diagnostic codes necessary for independent mechanics to work on the cars. Hence, you're stuck heading back to the dealer, who is free to charge you as much as they want for what could be a very simple repair--an average of 34 percent more for late-model cars, according to a new Lang Research study.

Fortunately, as Autopia reports, Congress is looking to change that. The new Right-to-Repair Act would "allow independent repair shops to compete for business that currently goes only to franchises and dealer-approved establishments." The bipartisan bill, in effect, would dramatically increase the number of shops that could service late-model vehicles and make those repairs significantly cheaper, the report said. In the meantime, sites like RepairPal can help you find a shop for your car--providing that it's one that can be worked on independently of a dealer. (Image credit: Nissan)