Published on •Updated
Throwing away your broken washing machine seems easier because it’s quicker and cheaper than fixing it. This is changing as the EU wants you to use your goods for longer.
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The EU’s Right to Repair Directive encourages consumers to repair broken products rather than replace them by making repairs easier, more accessible, and more appealing. The directive was adopted in June 2024, and member states had until 31 July 2026 to transpose it into national law.
The goal is to keep products for longer, reduce e-waste, promote sustainability, and help consumers save money. The rules cover appliances such as washing machines, vacuum cleaners, mobile phones, and tablets.
Under the directive, manufacturers must repair fixable products, can’t refuse repairs for economic or prior repair reasons, and must offer spare parts at fair prices. Repairs should be free or fairly priced and completed quickly. They must provide spare parts and repair information to independent repairers and clearly display repair service and price information online or in manuals.
The rules also extend the legal warranty by an extra year. If goods are under warranty and consumers opt for repair, they get an additional 12 months of protection.
The European online repair platform helps consumers find local repair shops, refurbished goods sellers, buyers of defective items, and community-led repair initiatives. Customers can also use a European information form to discover and compare repair offers and services.
Do you want to know more about your rights under the Right to Repair Directive? Ask the Euronews AI chatbot!
