New EPA guidance confirms farmers can legally repair nonroad diesel equipment
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has issued new guidance that strengthens American farmers’ lawful right to repair their own farm and nonroad diesel equipment. The clarification confirms that the Clean Air Act supports, rather than restricts, equipment repairs when done for proper functionality.
"EPA is proud to set the record straight and protect farmers. For far too long, manufacturers have wrongly used the Clean Air Act to monopolize the repair markets, hurting our farmers," said EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin. "Common sense is following the law as it is written, and that is what the Trump EPA is committed to doing. By protecting every American's right to repair, we're not just fixing devices, we're securing a stronger, more independent future for our country."
"By clarifying manufacturers can no longer use the Clean Air Act to justify limiting access to repair tools or software, we are reaffirming the lawful right of American farmers and equipment owners to repair their farm equipment," said Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins.
Rollins concluded "This is expected to save our farmers thousands in unnecessary repairs, saving much needed funds after Bidenflation drove up equipment costs on average 45%."
For many years, some equipment manufacturers claimed the Clean Air Act prevented them from sharing repair tools and software. This forced farmers to depend only on authorized dealers, even for simple repairs that could be done on the farm or at independent repair shops. As a result, repair costs increased, and delays often affected planting and harvesting schedules.
The EPA’s guidance makes it clear that temporary adjustments to emission control systems are allowed when repairs are needed. This applies to modern nonroad diesel equipment using advanced technologies such as selective catalytic reduction systems and Diesel Exhaust Fluid systems. Farmers and equipment owners are not required to rely only on manufacturer-approved dealers for repairs.
Importantly, the guidance does not weaken emission standards or change existing environmental laws. Instead, it explains how the Clean Air Act already allows repairs to ensure equipment works properly while still meeting environmental requirements.
"EPA's guidance affirming the Right to Repair will save our agricultural communities thousands of dollars by eliminating corporate middlemen and empowering farmers to fix their own equipment," said Small Business Administrator Kelly Loeffler.
"The Clean Air Act has long crushed family farmers across America - but under the Trump Administration, they are finally getting the regulatory relief to break free from burdensome Green New Scam rules and focus on the vital job of feeding, clothing, and fueling America and the world," said Loeffler.
By confirming the right to repair, the EPA aims to lower repair costs, reduce downtime, and give farmers more control over their equipment. This may also encourage farmers to use newer equipment rather than keeping older machines that are easier to repair but less efficient.
Overall, the EPA’s action supports American farmers by improving access to affordable repairs while maintaining strong environmental protections. It highlights a balanced approach that protects both agricultural productivity and public health.
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