In the United States, the Right to Repair legal guide is gaining attention as more states pass laws requiring manufacturers to make parts, manuals, and tools available to consumers. This issue matters for smartphones, laptops, cars, and even household appliances.
Key takeaways: The Right to Repair ensures consumers can fix their devices without being forced to rely on the original manufacturer. States are introducing different laws, and this legal guide explains what protections exist in 2025.
Legal basis
The Right to Repair is rooted in consumer protection law. Federal agencies like the FTC have supported policies that limit unfair repair restrictions. At the state level, legislation mandates access to spare parts, diagnostic software, and repair manuals for electronics and vehicles.
State-by-state differences
In Oregon, lawmakers banned “parts pairing” in 2025, requiring manufacturers to let consumers use third-party replacement parts. New York passed a Digital Fair Repair Act covering electronics. Massachusetts extended its auto repair data law, making diagnostic tools accessible to independent mechanics.
Real-world cases
Recent lawsuits showed that restricting repairs can violate antitrust principles. In 2023, a major phone manufacturer settled with regulators after limiting independent repair shops’ access to diagnostic codes. Courts emphasized that consumers deserve fair access to product maintenance.
Step-by-step actions
1. Check if your state has a Right to Repair law in effect.
2. Ask manufacturers for official repair manuals or diagnostic tools.
3. Use certified third-party repair shops when available.
4. File a complaint with the FTC if you are denied reasonable repair access.
5. Stay updated on new legislation through consumer advocacy sites.
Why this matters
Without strong Right to Repair protections, consumers face higher costs, electronic waste increases, and innovation slows down. Empowering individuals to fix products encourages sustainability and fair competition.
FAQ
Q: Does the Right to Repair apply to all products?
A: No. Laws vary by state and often focus on electronics, cars, or farm equipment.
Q: Can manufacturers still void warranties if I repair my device?
A: Federal law (Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act) prevents automatic voiding of warranties just because you used third-party parts.
Q: Where can I find official resources?
A: Visit the FTC consumer protection portal 👉 FTC official site