Who is this guide for?

Households considering a replacement

You want to compare the durability of new appliances without relying on a score shown for an entire range. The index and data for the exact model give you a starting point.

People planning for repairs

You want to know where to find the documentation and parts for the machine you’re considering. According to ADEME, these factors are included in its repairability assessment. You’ll still need to check the specific terms for the model you choose.

Households that value easy maintenance

You want to be able to access the filter and follow the cleaning instructions in your home. Maintenance, particularly access to the filter, and spin-cycle noise were among the issues highlighted by respondents to Que Choisir’s 2026 newsletter survey.

What should you look for?

If repairing your current machine is still an option, have it assessed before comparing new appliances. If you’re replacing it, start with the exact model and its durability index, then look at the parts and how the machine will fit into your day-to-day life.

What matters What to check Consumers concerned
Model durability Compare the score out of 10 for exact models, then check the criteria declared for each one. According to ADEME, reliability and repairability contribute equally to the score. When choosing a machine that suits my household, I want to compare durability without attributing one model’s score to another variant; around 29% of consumers make this a priority.
Repairability Check the documentation, the terms for accessing parts and how long they’re expected to remain available for your chosen model. If my machine breaks down after I buy it, I want to know that a repair can at least be considered; around 29% of consumers prioritise documentation and parts.
Maintenance and ease of use Check the manual to find the filter and see what maintenance is required. Also compare spin-cycle noise levels across relevant models. If the machine runs while people are at home, I want to be able to maintain the filter and take noise into account; around 24% of consumers put these considerations first.
Repair before replacement Get the fault assessed and ask for a quote. If the appliance is out of warranty, check with the repairer whether it meets the conditions for the QualiRépar Repair Bonus. Before buying another machine, I want to know whether my current one can keep going after a repair; around 18% of consumers consider this option first.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Relying on the score for a different variant

    The index applies to a specific model. A similar model number may have different data.

    Note down the full identifier of the machine for sale and match it to the data published for that exact model.

  • Treating the index as a guarantee against breakdowns

    The score combines reliability and repairability criteria. It doesn’t replace the warranty terms or an assessment of how you plan to use the machine.

    Once you’ve compared the scores, check the documentation, parts and warranty terms for the model you’re considering.

  • Overlooking access to the filter

    Que Choisir highlighted maintenance, particularly access to the filter, as an area to consider in its 2026 survey.

    Read the manual and make sure your planned installation will let you carry out the stated maintenance.

  • Replacing the machine without having the fault assessed

    A repair may still be possible, but this depends on the appliance and the fault. The QualiRépar Repair Bonus is subject to eligibility conditions.

    Get a diagnosis and a quote before deciding. If the machine is out of warranty, ask the repairer to confirm whether it’s eligible for the scheme.

Brands with model-specific data

Beko France

Beko France publishes durability index data for washing machines on data.gouv.fr.

  • The dataset is declared to comply with the washing machine durability index schema.
  • This publication doesn’t mean every Beko model has the same score: check the model number of the machine for sale.

Haier France

The data published by Haier France on data.gouv.fr identifies products and lists declared criteria for the index.

  • This information can help you look into the details of a specific model.
  • Make sure the variant for sale matches the data you’ve consulted, then check the applicable parts and warranty separately.

BSH Electroménager

BSH Electroménager has published a dataset relating to the washing machine durability index on data.gouv.fr.

  • Searching by model number lets you review the information associated with a machine.
  • Check that the relevant file is valid and up to date before using a score or criterion to make your choice.

Joybuy products related to this topic

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does a new washing machine sold in France have to display a durability index?

Yes. The requirement applies to the new washing machines concerned that have been sold in France since April 2025, according to ADEME and the ministries responsible for the ecological transition. Check that the displayed score matches the model being offered.

What does a washing machine’s durability score represent?

According to ADEME, it combines reliability and repairability in equal measure. Its criteria include wear, maintenance, documentation, dismantling and access to parts. The score alone can’t predict how long your machine will last.

How can I check a model’s index in detail?

Search data.gouv.fr for the data published under the model’s exact identifier. Make sure the variant for sale matches the file you’ve consulted, and that the data is valid and up to date.

When should I get a quote instead of replacing the machine straight away?

Get a diagnosis and a quote if the fault with your washing machine may be repairable. If the appliance is out of warranty, ecosystem says a QualiRépar repairer can also check whether the fault meets the conditions for the Repair Bonus. The scheme doesn’t guarantee that a repair will be possible.

What should I check in the manual before buying a washing machine?

Find out where the drain filter is and check the cleaning instructions for the seal and drum. Make sure you’ll be able to access the relevant parts once the machine is installed, then follow the instructions for that specific model.