Who is this guide for?

People comparing new models

If you’re replacing a washing machine, check the score for the exact model and look separately at its reliability and repairability. ADEME says these two elements each account for half of the durability index.

Households keen to keep their repair options open

If access to parts is important to you, look up the appliance’s full model reference, the parts that match it, how to order them and the after-sales service terms.

Owners of a washing machine that has broken down

Before replacing your appliance, ask a professional to identify the fault and check whether a repair is possible. The French ministry responsible for the ecological transition explains that eligibility for the Repair Bonus depends, among other things, on the repair being covered by the scheme and being carried out by an approved repairer.

Which criteria should you check first?

When buying new, start with the exact model reference and its durability index, then check parts and maintenance. If you already own an appliance that has broken down, consider whether it can be repaired before deciding to replace it.

Criterion What to check Who is it for?
Durability index The score out of 10 for the exact model and the breakdown of its reliability and repairability components, which ADEME weights equally. I’m replacing my washing machine and want to compare several models without relying on a brand’s reputation. Around 36% of consumers would make this comparison their priority.
Parts and after-sales service Parts that match the full model reference, how to order them and the arrangements for repairs. If a fault occurs, I want to know how to get the right part and who to contact. Access to parts and service would be the priority for around 29% of consumers.
Routine maintenance The model’s manual and access to the parts that need regular maintenance. I’d like to be able to follow the maintenance instructions easily as part of my everyday routine. Around 21% of consumers would put ease of maintenance first.
Repairing your current appliance The fault that has been identified, whether a repair is possible and whether it may qualify for the Repair Bonus. My washing machine has broken down and I want to know if I can keep it rather than replace it. Around 14% of consumers would put this decision first.

Which assumptions should you avoid?

  • Assuming a high score means the machine won’t break down

    The French index provides information about reliability and repairability criteria; it cannot predict what will happen to every individual appliance. Nor does it cover washing performance, noise or energy and water use, which are assessed in UFC-Que Choisir tests.

    Compare the score and its components for the exact model. If these aspects matter to you, also look for a test of that same model.

  • Assuming every part will be available straight away

    The DGCCRF sets out a parts-availability period that applies to certain covered domestic washing machines. This does not mean that every part fits every variant or that parts will be available immediately.

    Search for the full model reference on the manufacturer’s website, then check the matching parts, how to order them and the repair process.

  • Confusing a commercial warranty with your statutory rights

    In France, the legal guarantee of conformity is separate from a commercial warranty. A commercial warranty may cover a specific component and have its own contractual requirements.

    Check what is covered, any exclusions, the territory and how to activate the warranty. Keep the terms and proof of purchase.

  • Replacing your old appliance without checking what has gone wrong

    Depending on the fault, a repair may still be possible. The Repair Bonus described by the French ministry responsible for the ecological transition only applies to repairs that meet its conditions.

    Ask a professional to identify the fault and check whether the repair qualifies with an approved repairer before deciding between repair and replacement.

Brands to consider for your needs

Check the services and commitments advertised by each brand for the model you’re considering. They are not a ranking of washing machine reliability.

Bosch

Worth considering if you want to search for original parts using a washing machine’s E-Nr. reference.

  • Bosch says spare parts for its washing machines are generally available for 15 years and offers searches by E-Nr.
  • “Generally” does not guarantee access to every part, so check the model reference and the component you need.

Miele

Worth considering if the terms of a motor warranty are an important factor in your decision.

  • Miele offers an additional 25-year warranty on the motors of some laundry-care appliances, subject to conditions relating to purchase, activation, domestic use and territory.
  • This warranty covers the motor, not the entire washing machine. Check whether the model and your circumstances meet the terms of the contract.

Electrolux

Worth considering if you’d like to find support, original parts and a repair booking service in one place.

  • Electrolux’s French support site lists original parts and accessories, as well as a repair booking service.
  • Check that your model is covered, the arrangements for the repair and any exclusions.

Whirlpool

Worth considering if you want to search for documentation and parts using the appliance’s model reference.

  • The official Whirlpool France shop lets you search by model reference and shows whether the parts you’re looking for are available.
  • Check that each part is for the exact washing machine variant you own. A parts catalogue does not guarantee that every component is available.

Related products on Joybuy

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Can you compare the durability indices of two washing machines directly?

Yes, for washing machines covered by the scheme and sold in France, as long as each score relates to the exact model you’re comparing. ADEME explains that the score out of 10 gives equal weighting to reliability and repairability. Look at both components when the overall scores are close.

How can you check spare parts before buying?

Use the washing machine’s exact model reference to look up compatible parts and find out how to order them. The DGCCRF explains that the requirements for covered domestic washing machines apply to certain parts and their availability period; they do not guarantee immediate access to every component.

Does a commercial warranty replace the legal guarantee?

No. In France, the legal guarantee of conformity applies to goods sold by a business to a private individual, while a commercial warranty is a separate commitment. Check what the commercial warranty covers, its exclusions and any requirements, without confusing it with your statutory rights.

Does the Repair Bonus cover every washing machine fault?

No. Whether it applies depends on factors including the product, the repair and whether you use an approved repairer. Before replacing your appliance, ask a professional to identify the fault and check whether the repair is covered by the scheme.

What else should you check alongside the durability index?

Look for independent tests of the exact model that explain how they were carried out. The UFC-Que Choisir test protocol looks at washing, rinsing, spinning, noise and ease of use, among other things. These results give you insight into practical aspects that the durability score does not cover.