The European Parliament adopted the directive on the so-called “right to redress” for consumers with 584 votes in favor, three against and 14 abstentions. The rules clarify manufacturers’ obligations to repair goods even after the warranty has expired.
The manufacturer will have the obligation to repair the product at a reasonable price within a reasonable time after the statutory warranty period. Consumers will have access to spare parts, tools and information on how products can be repaired.
The new rules strengthen the right to repair, aim to reduce waste and support the repair sector by making it easier and cheaper to repair goods.
Parliament adopted the directive on the so-called “right to redress” for consumers with 584 votes in favour, three against and 14 abstentions. The rules clarify the obligations of manufacturers to repair goods and encourage consumers to extend the life cycle of products by repairing them.
The new rules require manufacturers to provide timely and affordable repair services and to inform consumers of their right to repair. Goods repaired during the warranty period will benefit from a one-year extension of the legal warranty. Thus, consumers will be further encouraged to choose to repair the product instead of replacing it.
After the warranty period expires, manufacturers will still have an obligation to repair common household products that are technically repairable under Union law. Washing machines, vacuum cleaners and even mobile phones fall into this category. The list of product categories may be expanded over time. Consumers can also borrow a device while their device is being repaired or opt for a refurbished one as an alternative if the product is beyond repair.
Tags: Manufacturers obliged repair household appliances warranty
