A key win for the European lubricants industry: new EU rules on access to technical information come into force
23/06/2026
Today, UEIL welcomes the entry into force of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2026/699 as a significant step forward for independent lubricant manufacturers.
This Delegated Regulation updates Annex X of the EU Type Approval Regulation, which governs access to vehicle repair and maintenance information (RMI). Under the newly added Point 7.5 of the Annex, vehicle manufacturers must now make repair and maintenance information available to independent operators at the latest on the date on which a new vehicle is placed on the market.
For UEIL members, unrestricted access to accurate RMI – including fluid and lubricant specifications – is a commercial necessity. Delays in the access to RMI have historically put independent operators at a disadvantage relative to authorised dealer networks.
This milestone reflects a long-standing priority of UEIL and an area in which we have consistently engaged with EU institutions to ensure a more level-playing field. We now call on vehicle manufacturers and national Type-Approval Authorities to ensure proper and effective implementation. UEIL will continue to support its members to guarantee their right to access RMI.
