The FTC has issued a landmark rule requiring all electronics and appliance manufacturers to make repair parts, tools, and service manuals available to consumers and independent repair shops.
Rule Requirements
- Repair parts available for 7 years after product discontinuation
- Service manuals must be publicly accessible online
- Software locks preventing repair are prohibited
- Warranty cannot be voided by independent repair
The rule affects Apple, Samsung, John Deere, and every manufacturer selling in the US. Apple has already expanded its Self Service Repair program, while John Deere has agreed to unlock diagnostic software for farmers.
