# Lenovo Criticized for Insufficient Laptop Repairability Disclosure
## Introduction
In a time when sustainability and the right-to-repair initiatives are gaining traction, laptop makers are facing heightened scrutiny regarding the repairability of their products. A recent analysis by the US Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) Education Fund has highlighted that Lenovo, a prominent name in the PC industry, has not adequately provided repairability information for its laptop offerings. This absence of transparency has sparked worries among consumers and proponents of the right-to-repair movement, who contend that access to repair information is vital for prolonging the life of electronic gadgets and minimizing electronic waste.
## The Findings of the US PIRG Report
The US PIRG’s fourth annual *Failing the Fix* report evaluated the repairability of laptops and smartphones from leading brands. The study examined the latest 10 devices from each manufacturer available for purchase in January 2025. The evaluation utilized the French Repairability Index, which rates products on ease of disassembly, availability of replacement parts, and repair guidelines.
While Apple scored poorly due to the intricate nature of disassembling MacBooks, Lenovo’s low rating stemmed from its inability to supply sufficient repairability information. The report indicated that Lenovo did not reveal the complete French Repairability Index scores for 12 out of 13 models offered in both the US and France. Consequently, US PIRG could only assign a score to one Lenovo model, resulting in an overall failing mark for the brand.
## The Importance of Repairability Transparency
Lenovo’s insufficient repairability information raises concerns for various reasons:
1. **Consumer Rights and Right-to-Repair Legislation**
– Numerous consumers and advocacy organizations assert that manufacturers ought to furnish clear repairability details to empower buyers to make informed choices.
– The right-to-repair movement has gained global momentum, with regulations in regions like France mandating companies to reveal repairability ratings.
2. **Environmental Impact**
– Electronic waste is an escalating issue, and making laptops more repair-friendly can greatly reduce the number of devices discarded.
– When consumers are able to fix their laptops rather than substituting them, it prolongs the product’s lifespan and mitigates environmental damage.
3. **Economic Considerations**
– Repairing a laptop is frequently more economical than purchasing a new one.
– Small repair shops depend on access to technical manuals and spare components to offer affordable services to consumers.
## Lenovo’s Response and Industry Comparisons
At present, Lenovo has not clarified why it did not disclose the necessary repairability information. In contrast, other companies such as Asus and Acer have consistently ranked higher in repairability evaluations due to their simpler disassembly processes and availability of replacement components.
Last year, Lenovo was assigned a “C” grade in the US PIRG report, trailing behind rivals like Dell, HP, and Microsoft. This year’s failing score indicates a decline in transparency rather than progress.
## Apple’s Repairability Efforts
While Apple also received low repairability ratings, the company has demonstrated some progress. Apple’s overall repairability score has risen from 4.3 last year to 5.1 this year, partly owing to its endorsement of right-to-repair legislation in California. Moreover, Apple has broadened its Self Service Repair initiative, allowing consumers to utilize official repair tools and documentation.
Despite these strides, Apple continues to face challenges with disassembly ratings, rendering MacBooks among the toughest laptops to repair. Nevertheless, the company’s engagement in right-to-repair conversations signifies a departure from its previous approach.
## The Future of Laptop Repairability
As consumer interest in repairable electronics intensifies, manufacturers may confront growing pressure to enhance transparency and design devices that are easier to repair. Elements such as tariffs, supply chain interruptions, and environmental policies could further stimulate the demand for more repairable laptops.
Lucas Gutterman, director of US PIRG’s Designed to Last campaign, underscored that repairability is becoming an essential issue for consumers. He pointed out that Americans are keeping their phones for extended periods, suggesting a similar trend may emerge for laptops.
## Conclusion
Lenovo’s inability to furnish adequate repairability information is a notable setback for consumers who prioritize transparency and sustainability. As right-to-repair legislation progresses, manufacturers will be compelled to adjust by making repair data more accessible and designing products with durability in mind.
For the time being, consumers searching for repairable laptops may have to look towards brands like Asus and Acer, which have shown a more robust commitment to repairability. Meanwhile, advocacy organizations like US PIRG will persist in advocating for increased accountability from technology companies, ensuring that repairability remains a focal point in the industry.
