To choose a washing machine that’s built to last, compare the durability scores of the models you’re considering, then check what each score is based on: reliability, access to parts, documentation and maintenance. An overall score doesn’t guarantee that a specific repair will be possible. If your current machine has broken down, a diagnosis can also help you decide whether to repair or replace it.
If you need to buy a washing machine, its durability score lets you compare the reliability and repairability of the models you’re considering. France’s Ministry for Ecological Transition says the score has applied to washing machines since 8 April 2025.
You’ll need the appliance’s exact model number to find the parts and documents required for a repair. According to the DGCCRF, certain parts for the household washing machines covered by the rules must remain available while the model is on sale and for ten years after the last unit is placed on the market. This does not apply to every part.
Before replacing your machine, you can ask for a diagnosis. The Repair Bonus may cover work carried out by a QualiRépar repairer, provided, among other things, that the appliance is no longer covered by a warranty or insurance and that the fault is eligible, according to ecosystem.
When buying, start with the score for the exact model, then check the information that would make a repair realistically possible. If you already own a machine that has broken down, first find out whether it can be repaired.
| Criterion | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Overall durability | The score out of 10 for the exact model, and a breakdown of the reliability and repairability criteria, if available. | If I’m replacing my washing machine, I want to compare how long it’s expected to last based on more than a general promise. Around 36% of consumers would prioritise this overall picture. |
| Parts and repairability | The parts catalogue searchable by model, which parts it covers, how long they’ll be available and the documentation provided. | I want to be able to find the parts I need if something goes wrong, without assuming that every part will be available for my specific version. Around 29% of consumers would prioritise being able to plan for a repair. |
| Warranty and support | Who the seller is, the terms of any commercial warranty, and how to get support for your specific model. | If there’s a problem, I mainly need to know who to contact and what each warranty covers. Around 21% of consumers would prioritise this clarity. |
| Repair before replacement | A diagnosis of the fault, whether the machine is covered by a warranty or insurance, and the conditions for the Repair Bonus. | My washing machine has already broken down: I’d rather find out whether it can be repaired before choosing another one. Around 14% of consumers would first weigh up repair versus replacement. |
The index combines reliability and repairability, but the score alone won’t tell you whether a particular part will be available for your model.
Compare the exact model numbers, then check the index breakdown and the manufacturer’s information on parts and maintenance.
The DGCCRF says that the availability requirements for the household washing machines covered by the rules apply to certain parts and for a specific period.
Search for the part you need using the full model number and check the ordering details provided by the manufacturer.
According to ecosystem, the scheme excludes certain types of maintenance work, consumables and problems related to installation, among other things. The appliance must also meet the warranty and insurance conditions.
Ask for a diagnosis and check that both the appliance and the repair are eligible with a QualiRépar repairer before deciding to replace the machine.
For goods sold by a business to an individual in France, the statutory guarantee of conformity is separate from an optional commercial warranty, as France’s Ministry of the Economy points out.
Keep your proof of purchase and read the terms of any commercial warranty separately.
Worth checking if you’re looking for original parts using the E-Nr model number.
Worth checking for parts and instructions related to washing machines and washer-dryers.
Worth checking if you’re looking for original parts using a part or appliance number.
Worth checking for original parts listed for a specific washing machine.
Yes. According to France’s Ministry for Ecological Transition, the durability score replaced the repairability score for washing machines on 8 April 2025. To compare two appliances, note the score out of 10 for each exact model.
It combines repairability and reliability, each accounting for 50% of the final score according to ADEME. Looking at the breakdown can help you check factors such as documentation, how easy the machine is to dismantle, access to parts, maintenance and the warranty, rather than relying on the overall score alone.
Note down the washing machine’s full model number and search for it with the manufacturer, importer or their authorised representative. The DGCCRF says that, for appliances covered by the rules, the list of parts covered, how long they’ll be available and how to order them must be accessible. Then check the specific part you need for that model.
No. According to ecosystem, the appliance must no longer be covered by a statutory or commercial warranty, or by insurance. The fault and repair must also be eligible, and the work must be carried out by a QualiRépar professional.
No. In France, the statutory guarantee of conformity applies to goods sold by a business to an individual. A commercial warranty is separate and subject to its own terms, according to France’s Ministry of the Economy. Check what’s offered without confusing it with your rights against the seller.