Ferguson states Deere exclusively controls software repair tools and previously restricted them to authorized dealers only.
“Deere makes the only software repair tools capable of performing all electronic repairs on Deere equipment. Deere, however, has previously made such tools available only to its authorized dealers,”
Ferguson connects the Deere settlement to broader FTC efforts against anticompetitive repair restrictions and cost reduction.
““The settlement with Deere will help lower costs for American farmers. The FTC will continue fighting against anticompetitive restrictions on American consumers’ right to repair.””
Ferguson says the settlement restores farmers' traditional ability to repair their own equipment without paying Deere dealers.
““Today’s settlement enables farmers to do what they’ve done for generations—fix their own tractors and other farm equipment—without having to pay an authorized John Deere dealer to do it for them,””
Ferguson describes how Deere restricted proprietary software repair tools to authorized dealers only, forcing farmer dependence.
“Deere, however, has previously made such tools available only to its authorized dealers, forcing farmers to rely on authorized dealers for many necessary repairs,”