New EU rules may force manufacturers to repair worn-out appliances and phones
Consumers can now demand repairs from manufacturers even when faults fall outside warranty or defect liability, though a reasonable fee may be charged.
Finland has incorporated EU-driven changes to its consumer protection legislation, creating a duty for manufacturers to provide repair options for a range of goods even when the defect is not covered by warranty or liability. The law covers typical household appliances—including washing machines, dryers, dishwashers, cold storage units, and vacuum cleaners—as well as electronic screens such as mobile phones and tablets.
While manufacturers can levy a reasonable fee for the repair, they must refuse only if the item cannot be fixed. The reparability requirement is tied to EU eco-design regulations, meaning it does not apply to every product or every type of fault. Additionally, a voluntary European repair information form has been introduced to help consumers compare repair offers and understand costs before agreeing.
Why it matters
The rule aims to extend product lifespans, lower costs for buyers, and support a circular economy.
How the sides frame it
MODERATE AGREEMENTCenter coverage frames the directive as a climate-focused effort to curb e-waste and lower consumer costs, while right-leaning coverage presents it as a consumer-protection law that allows reasonable repair fees and notes limited scope.
CENTER
The directive is portrayed as a green initiative to reduce waste and save consumers, with criticism that some manufacturers are not complying.
RIGHT
The rule is described as a consumer-protection duty that lets manufacturers charge reasonable fees and applies only to certain products and faults.
The right emphasises
- creates a duty for manufacturers to offer repairs even outside warranty
- allows a reasonable fee and refusal only if the item cannot be fixed
- ties reparability to EU eco-design regulations and notes limited applicability
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