CA AB473

Prohibits franchisors from allocating vehicles and parts inconsistently with specified standards and establishes new franchisor restrictions on performance standards, facility requirements, and rights of first refusal.

Requires manufacturers and distributors to exercise rights of first refusal in good faith and provides reimbursement for proposed transferee expenses when exercising such rights.

Prohibits manufacturers from implementing or modifying vehicle reservation systems unless they use customer dealer selection or provide 30 days' notice of system changes to franchisees.

Clarifies that manufacturers are not unlawfully competing with franchisees when providing free software updates over-the-air or creating new vehicle lines using existing franchisees for sales and service.

Allows dealers to file protests with the New Motor Vehicle Board to challenge franchisor violations, with franchisors bearing the burden of proof in such proceedings.