John Deere has agreed to pay $99 million to settle a class-action lawsuit alleging the company monopolized repair services for its agricultural equipment. The settlement addresses claims that the manufacturer restricted farmers' ability to repair their own tractors and other machinery.

The lawsuit centered on allegations that John Deere used proprietary software and exclusive parts distribution to force customers to use only company-authorized repair services. Farmers argued this practice increased repair costs and created delays during critical planting and harvest seasons.

John Deere has been a prominent opponent of right-to-repair legislation, which would require manufacturers to provide repair manuals, diagnostic tools, and replacement parts to independent repair shops and equipment owners. The company has maintained that its repair restrictions protect intellectual property and ensure equipment safety.

Consumer advocacy groups, while welcoming the settlement, have indicated they believe the payment is insufficient given the scope of the alleged monopolistic practices. The settlement comes as right-to-repair legislation continues to gain momentum in various state legislatures across the country.

The agreement must still receive final court approval before payments are distributed to affected farmers. John Deere did not admit wrongdoing as part of the settlement terms.