Apple’s Repair Problem: My Journey to Fight for the Right to Repair
If you’ve ever had an issue with an Apple product, you may know how frustrating their repair policies can be. Recently, I experienced this first-hand. My iPhone’s camera was damaged by Apple themselves, but when I went back for a repair, they refused to fix it. Why? Because I had taken the phone to a third-party repair shop prior to that. In a region where Apple stores are few and far between, this policy left me stranded.
Here I‘ll tell you the story about what happened to me at Apple:
Why Apple’s Repair Policy Is Problematic
When our iPhone developed a defect, we were 1200 km away from the nearest official Apple store. With only two authorized Apple locations in all of South America, getting repairs is already a challenge. We traveled all the way to Rio de Janeiro to get the phone fixed, but Apple’s mishandling made things worse.
What Happened at the Apple Store?
Upon arrival, we trusted Apple to fix our device, but instead, they damaged the camera during the process. When we confronted them, the shocking response was that they would no longer repair the phone because it had previously been opened by an unofficial repair shop.
The Right to Repair Movement
Apple’s policy is part of a broader problem. Big tech companies have resisted consumer rights to repair their own devices or have them serviced by independent technicians. This incident highlights why the Right to Repair movement is so important, especially in regions like South America, where access to official stores is limited. Supporters like Louis Rossmann @rossmanngroup and Zack Nelson from @JerryRigEverything have been advocating for these rights for years.
Can We Fight Back?
In our case, we were advised to file complaints through local consumer protection agencies like Reclame Aqui and Procon. These services can help escalate disputes between consumers and companies, but for foreigners, the process may be daunting.
Do you have any experiences with these websites?
- Reclame Aqui: https://www.reclameaqui.com.br
- Procon: http://www.procon.rj.gov.br
- Tribunal de Pequenas Causas: https://www.jusbrasil.com.br/artigos/o-guia-completo-do-juizado-de-pequenas-causas/1991687058
What You Can Do
If you’ve had a similar experience with Apple or another company, know that there are ways to fight for your rights. Whether it’s filing a formal complaint or joining the Right to Repair movement, you don’t have to accept a company’s refusal to help.
Consumer rights are there for a reason, and it’s time we stand up for them.
If you want to share your experience with an Apple product repair, or have useful information, reach out to me here.
Paul Trausner
Lived on 4 continents and visited 60+ countries
Specializes in expat consultation for Latin America,
including residency coaching, US LLC formation, and tax optimization strategies
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