FTC Sues John Deere Over Repair Practices

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC), alongside Illinois and Minnesota, has initiated a lawsuit against Deere & Company, alleging that the agricultural equipment manufacturer has hindered farmers' ability to repair their own machinery. The complaint centers on Deere's exclusive software tool, Service ADVISOR, which is necessary for diagnosing and repairing electronic issues but is only available to authorized dealers, forcing farmers to incur higher costs and face delays. FTC Chair Lina Khan asserted that these practices limit farmers' options and can significantly impact their livelihoods during critical planting and harvest times. Deere has countered, claiming the FTC lacks understanding of the agricultural industry's intricacies and asserting that it is enhancing self-repair options for customers. The lawsuit is part of a broader movement advocating for farmers' right to repair equipment, echoing similar issues faced in other sectors, such as technology. If successful, the lawsuit could have global implications for Deere's repair policies, potentially leading to changes in other markets, including Australia.