by Denver, Colorado — Colorado residents now have expanded rights to repair their own electronics after a new right-to-repair law for digital devices officially took effect on January 1, 2026.
The legislation, signed by Gov. Jared Polis in May 2024, requires electronics manufacturers to provide parts, repair tools, and service guides to both consumers and independent repair shops. Lawmakers say the goal is to increase repair options, reduce costs for consumers, and cut down on electronic waste.
Under the new rules, companies can no longer restrict certain repair methods that previously made it difficult for customers or independent technicians to fix devices without manufacturer approval.
The law requires manufacturers to share repair materials at fair prices and removes several barriers that previously limited independent repairs.
Wide range of electronics covered by the law
The right-to-repair law applies to a broad range of everyday digital devices.
Electronics covered include:
- Cell phones
- Computers and laptops
- Televisions
- Printers
- Household appliances
- E-bikes
- HVAC systems
The law applies to devices first manufactured and sold or used in Colorado on or after July 1, 2021.
One feature that sets Colorado apart from many other states is that the law also protects businesses, not just individual consumers.
Most right-to-repair laws focus only on personal devices, but Colorado’s legislation extends those protections to companies as well.
This means businesses can also seek parts, tools, and repair information from manufacturers when servicing equipment.
Manufacturers can no longer block replacement parts
A key part of the new law targets a practice known as “parts pairing.”
Parts pairing occurs when a manufacturer uses software to link a specific component—such as a screen or battery—to a device through a digital code. If the part is replaced without authorization from the manufacturer, the device may display warning messages or lose certain features.
For example, replacing a smartphone screen without official manufacturer software can sometimes disable features like color calibration or display adjustments.
Colorado’s law now prohibits manufacturers from using parts pairing to block repairs or mislead consumers about replacement parts.
The legislation bans companies from using software locks that prevent independently installed parts from functioning properly.
Supporters say this change will make it easier for consumers and repair shops to fix devices without relying solely on manufacturer service centers.
Repair software must be provided for free
While companies can still charge for physical replacement parts or specialized tools, the law includes a major requirement related to repair software.
Manufacturers must now provide diagnostic software and firmware tools at no cost to consumers and independent repair providers.
These tools are often necessary to complete repairs or reset device systems after replacing parts.
The law also requires manufacturers to offer parts and tools to independent repair shops at the same price offered to their own authorized repair providers.
This requirement aims to create a level playing field between local repair shops and manufacturer-authorized service centers.
Advocates say this change could significantly expand the repair market.
Some devices are exempt from the new rules
Despite its broad scope, the law does not apply to every type of device.
Items that are exempt from the legislation include:
- Video game consoles
- Motor vehicles
- Boats and aviation equipment
- Medical devices
- Certain fire alarm and security monitoring systems
Video game consoles were excluded largely due to concerns related to piracy and cybersecurity risks.
However, powered wheelchairs already have repair protections in Colorado under separate legislation passed in 2022.
Manufacturers are also not required to disclose trade secrets or source code as part of the repair process.
Violations can lead to significant penalties
Companies that fail to comply with the law may face substantial penalties.
Violations are treated as deceptive trade practices under Colorado consumer protection laws.
Companies found violating the law could face civil penalties of up to $20,000 per incident.
The Colorado Attorney General’s Office has the authority to investigate complaints and take legal action against manufacturers that do not follow the rules.
Independent repair shops also have responsibilities under the law. They must inform customers if they are not authorized by the manufacturer and disclose whether they use non-manufacturer replacement parts.
Law could reduce repair costs and electronic waste
Consumer advocates say the law could help lower repair costs and extend the lifespan of electronics.
When manufacturers control repair services, consumers often face higher costs and longer wait times. For example, repairing a smartphone screen through an official service center can cost between $130 and $380 or more, depending on the model.
Independent repair shops and do-it-yourself repairs may offer more affordable options.
Supporters say the law encourages competition among repair providers, which could lead to lower prices for consumers.
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It may also help reduce the amount of electronic waste created when people replace devices instead of repairing them.
Colorado has expanded repair rights over several years
The new electronics repair law is the third right-to-repair measure passed in Colorado in recent years.
Earlier legislation included:
- 2022: Right-to-repair protections for powered wheelchairs
- 2023: Repair access laws for agricultural equipment like tractors
- 2024: Expanded protections covering most digital electronics
Colorado is also one of only two states, along with Oregon, that specifically bans parts pairing restrictions in electronics repair laws.
As similar legislation is considered in other states, Colorado’s approach may serve as a model for expanding consumer repair rights across the country.
What do you think about right-to-repair laws and whether consumers should have more control over fixing their own electronics? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
