Germany introduces right-to-repair claim against manufacturers

For certain product groups consumers gain a direct repair claim against the manufacturer, independent of warranty rights. Covered products include large appliances (dishwashers, washing machines, refrigerators), consumer electronics (televisions, monitors) and smartphones and tablets. Manufacturers must offer repairs and spare parts at reasonable prices that do not deter consumers from repairing, and must publish typical repair costs online. The obligations last seven to ten years depending on the product type, counted from when the last unit of a model was placed on the market. In addition, for purchases from 31 July 2026 the warranty period extends from two to three years where repair is chosen instead of replacement in a warranty case.

With effect from 31 July 2026 Germany implements EU Directive 2024/1799 on the promotion of the repair of goods through amendments to the Civil Code (BGB). There is no right to a free repair: manufacturer repairs remain chargeable, while warranty repairs continue to be free of charge and remain the seller's responsibility.