The Bundestag has passed a law to implement the EU directive on the “right to repair.” The goal is to ensure that defective products such as smartphones, washing machines and refrigerators are repaired more often in the future instead of being thrown away.
Repairs Even After the Statutory Warranty Expires
Manufacturers are to make repairs possible even after the statutory warranty has expired, if a product is generally repairable. The right to repair is to apply for the usual lifespan of the respective product. The exact duration will be specified in the law. The directive must be transposed into German law by July 31, 2026.
Extended Warranty After Repair
A two-year statutory warranty already applies to defective goods. If consumers choose a repair within this period, the warranty period is to be extended by twelve months in the future. It would then amount to three years in total.
Spare Parts and Tools
In addition, consumers should be able to obtain spare parts and repair tools from the manufacturer at a reasonable price. This is intended to make repairs easier — including when people want to repair a product themselves or have it repaired by a workshop.
When a Product Is Defective
The new rules also clarify that if a product cannot be repaired, even though this would normally be expected for this type of product, this may be considered a defect. Consumers can then make use of their warranty rights.
Less Electronic Waste
The law aims to conserve resources, reduce electronic waste and strengthen consumer rights. The federal government wants to promote sustainable consumption and a culture of repair.
Further information:
https://www.bundesregierung.de/breg-de/aktuelles/reparieren-statt-wegwerfen-2415530
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