The European Union (EU) is preparing to introduce new rules to ensure easier and more affordable repairs of broken products such as smartphones, televisions, washing machines, vacuum cleaners and bicycles.

At the session of the General Assembly of the European Parliament (EP) held in Strasbourg, the document containing the negotiating position with the member states on the new rules of the right to repair that will promote the repair of goods was approved.

Consequently, consumers will be encouraged to repair broken devices instead of replacing them.

New measures will be taken to strengthen the right to reparation. Repair of defective products will be facilitated.

Sellers will need to prioritize repairs if it would be cheaper or equal in cost to replace the products within the legal warranty period. This will only apply if the repair is inconvenient or inconvenient for the consumer.

1 YEAR WARRANTY PERIOD FOR REPAIRED PRODUCT

Once a product is repaired, the legal warranty period will be extended for 1 more year.

Consumers will have the right to request repairs for products such as washing machines, televisions, vacuum cleaners, smartphones and bicycles after the warranty period has expired.

To make repair a more attractive option for consumers, manufacturers will need to provide temporary devices for the duration of the repair.

If a product cannot be repaired, a refurbished product may be offered instead.

It will ensure that consumers do not have to face high repair costs. Independent repairers and users will have access to all spare parts, repair information and tools at a reasonable price.

For the new rules to come into force, the EP and member countries must agree on a common legal text (AA)