LEESBURG, VA -- (Marketwire) -- 11/26/08 -- The National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF) announced today that Mitsubishi Motors North America has signed the NASTF Service Information Standards Agreement, joining twelve 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 Mitsubishi 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 BMW, Volvo, Subaru, Ford, Toyota, Volkswagen, Nissan, Hyundai, Mazda, Honda, Suzuki, and Kia.

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.