As a consumer in Sweden, you have strong legal protection when a product you’ve purchased turns out to be faulty. But what exactly counts as a defect? How long do you have to make a complaint? And what can you legally demand from the seller?
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In this article, we explain your rights under the Swedish Consumer Sales Act (Konsumentköplagen) and what you can claim when a product is defective.
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What Counts as a Defective Product?
A product is considered defective if it:
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Does not match what was agreed (wrong model, color, function, etc.)
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Is damaged or does not work as expected
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Is delivered late or in the wrong quantity
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Fails to meet reasonable expectations based on the product’s description
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Was sold without clear information about important limitations or flaws
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A product can also be considered defective if it’s unsafe, incompatible with other equipment, or lacks the durability that could reasonably be expected.
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How Long Do I Have to File a Complaint?
You have up to 3 years to complain about a defect, starting from the date you received the product. However:
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You should report the defect as soon as you notice it
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If you complain within 2 months of discovering the defect, it is always considered “within a reasonable time”
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What Can I Claim Under Swedish Consumer Law?
If the product is defective, you have the right to claim the following, in this order:
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Repair – the defect is fixed at no cost to you
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Replacement – a new, non-defective item is provided
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Price reduction – if the defect cannot be fully corrected
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Cancellation of the purchase – if the defect is serious and not remedied in time
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Compensation for damages – if you’ve suffered financial loss because of the defect
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The seller usually has the right to try to repair the defect before you can demand a refund or cancel the purchase.
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Who Is Responsible?
The seller is responsible—not the manufacturer. This applies whether you bought the item online, in-store, or over the phone.
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What About the Warranty?
A warranty is voluntary and does not affect your legal rights. However, it may offer extra protection, such as a longer complaint period or faster service.
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What If the Seller Refuses to Help?
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Contact the seller in writing – keep a clear record of your complaint
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Refer to the law – explain your rights under the Consumer Sales Act
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File a complaint with ARN – the Swedish National Board for Consumer Disputes (Allmänna reklamationsnämnden)
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Speak to a lawyer – if the dispute involves significant value or you plan to take legal action
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Summary
If you’ve purchased a product that turns out to be faulty, Swedish law gives you the right to demand repair, replacement, a price reduction, a refund, or damages—depending on the situation.
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The Swedish Consumer Sales Act offers strong protection. Don’t hesitate to use it, and always keep a record of your communications with the seller.
