John Deere faces US court over machinery repair practices

The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has filed a lawsuit against machinery manufacturer John Deere for engaging in unfair business practices related to the maintenance of its machines. A federal judge has ruled that the case may proceed. The outcome will be crucial in determining whether farmers have the right to repair and maintain their own equipment without manufacturer-imposed limitations.

John Deere must now defend itself in court in the United States against allegations of unfair practices in the servicing of agricultural machinery. A federal judge in the state of Illinois has decided that the case will go ahead, according to news agency Reuters. The ruling is considered highly significant for farmers’ right to repair their own tractors and farm machinery.

Obstruction of farmer repairs

The FTC and 5 US states, including Illinois and Wisconsin, allege that John Deere hinders farmers and independent technicians from carrying out repairs. According to the complaint, the company does not provide full access to essential diagnostic software, forcing users to rely on often costly repairs at authorised dealerships.

John Deere argues that it does not grant full access to its repair and diagnostic programmes for several reasons: to protect intellectual property, to ensure safety and warranty compliance, to maintain repair quality, and to secure revenue through its dealer network.

Judge allows lawsuit to proceed

The judge concluded that there is sufficient legal basis to move forward with the case. He criticised John Deere’s defence and stressed that farmers should have the right to maintain their own equipment, particularly in sectors where swift and efficient maintenance is vital.

If the court ultimately rules that John Deere must change its maintenance policy, the impact could extend beyond the United States—potentially affecting practices worldwide, including in the Netherlands.