EU Right to Repair Directive: A Guide to Fixing Your Broken Electronics

Published on 07/09/2026 – 8:15 GMT+2

Discarding a malfunctioning appliance often appears more convenient due to its speed and lower cost compared to fixing it. However, this dynamic is shifting as the European Union incentivizes consumers to retain their goods for longer periods.

Adopted in June 2024, the EU’s Right to Repair Directive mandates that member states transpose its provisions into national law by July 31, 2026. It aims to facilitate repairs by making them easier, more accessible, and more appealing to consumers.

The initiative seeks to extend product lifespans, minimize electronic waste, advance sustainability, and save consumers money. Coverage includes household appliances such as washing machines, vacuum cleaners, mobile phones, and tablets.

Under the directive, manufacturers are required to repair fixable items and cannot deny repairs based on economic factors or prior repair history. Spare parts must be provided at fair prices, and repairs should be cost-effective and completed promptly. Furthermore, manufacturers must supply spare parts and repair information to independent repairers and clearly display repair services and pricing online or within user manuals.

The legislation also extends the legal warranty by an additional year. If an item is under warranty and the consumer chooses repair, they receive 12 months of extended protection.

A dedicated European online repair platform assists consumers in locating local repair shops, sellers of refurbished goods, buyers of defective items, and community-led repair initiatives. Users can also access a European information form to discover and compare various repair offers and services.

Want to learn more about your rights under the Right to Repair Directive? The Euronews AI chatbot is available to answer your questions.

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