FTC nabs John Deere on right to repair — tractors, 48 months

The FTC has settled its case with John Deere. The deal lets the agency police the company for 48 months over right to repair — the ability for farmers and mechanics to fix their own equipment instead of being forced through the dealer. The settlement was filed in federal court in Washington.

John Deere has been one of the loudest voices against right to repair. Farmers have spent years stuck waiting on dealer appointments, part orders, and software locks that keep independent shops out. The FTC's action signals it's willing to use antitrust and consumer-protection tools to crack down on companies that lock users out of their own gear.

The 48-month window means the FTC can come back and enforce the terms without starting a new case. For John Deere's equipment — tractors, combines, sprayers — this is the first real federal check on their repair monopoly. Independent mechanics and farm shops will have breathing room.

Why this matters for us: When you own a truck, a tractor, or a mower, it's yours to fix — the FTC just reminded John Deere of that.