The European Union has adopted a new set of right-to-repair rules that encourages people to repair their devices instead of replacing them with new ones. One of the rules extends the warranty of a product by one year if the product is repaired while still under warranty. Notably, for under-warranty repairs, consumers can also choose a complete replacement instead of the repair. The rules also mandate repairs for common household products even after the warranty period.
EU wants users to prioritize a repair instead of a replacement
The European Union already mandates a minimum of a two-year warranty on consumer products. The new additions take things a step further to make it easier for users to repair their out-of-warranty “common household products”. It includes a variety of products such as smartphones, TVs, tablets, and more.
The new rules mention that manufacturers must set ‘reasonable’ prices to repair an out-of-warranty device. This could be a great addition as often the cost to repair a product convinces people to replace that with a new one. Although, I would like to point out that the word “reasonable” leaves the pricing guidance vague.
Manufacturers will also have to provide spare parts and tools for self-repair and stop software locking components that prevent repairing with third-party components. Often, these make the repairing more affordable, However, it might not be a good idea to use certain third-party components such as batteries.
Reportedly, the new rules also allow using 3D-printed or second-hand parts from repair shops. It a product undergoes a third-party repair within the warranty, manufacturers no longer provide a free repair. The latest revelation from the European Union also prevents companies from doing so. The EU also plans to launch a platform that will help customers find third-party repair shops, and replacement products, and their buyers.
The out-of-warranty device repair does not cover goods purchased by businesses
All of these measures can help implement the advertised purpose behind excluding power adapters: save the planet by producing less and reusing more. The Right to Repair Europe coalition saw the new rules as a step in the right direction.
However, the new rules only cover consumer products. It means it won’t cover anything purchased by businesses.
“In essence, its main effect will be to somewhat increase the chances that the small number of products that already had to be repairable by law anyway, will actually end up being repaired,” wrote the coalition.
Meanwhile, the US is also progressing on right-to-repair laws, with individual states working on legislation. California’s law, effective in July, mandates manufacturers to make repair materials available for electronics and appliances over $50.