CNN has an interesting article about automakers trying to corner the repair market. To diagnose the problem the mechanic connects a hand-held computer to the car, and the computer returns a code of numbers and letters. But the problem is the carmakers refuse to release the information needed to interpret the codes. So car owners are forced to get their car repaired at the dealership, which everyone knows is a ripoff.

Fortunately the aftermarket offers alternatives. For example, the Vag-Com software lets users diagnose Volkswagens and Audis. All that\’s needed is a computer and an interface cable.