Who is this decision for?

Households looking to avoid replacing an appliance too soon

A breakdown disrupts your daily routine, but you’d like to check your warranties, repair options and how long it will take to get your appliance working again first.

Shoppers replacing a washing machine, dishwasher or vacuum cleaner

You’ve decided to replace your appliance and want to compare the repairability or durability information relevant to its category, as well as the availability of spare parts.

Shoppers open to refurbished appliances

You’re considering an appliance that has been used and restored, provided you can check its description, the tests carried out and the applicable guarantees.

What should you check before deciding?

First, check what cover applies to your appliance and what it would take to get it working again. If you decide to replace it, tailor your checks to the appliance category and, for refurbished products, to the specific offer from the seller.

What matters What to check Who this matters to
Getting your appliance back in use Check which warranties or insurance policies apply, then find out how long the repair is expected to take. When a breakdown stops me doing the laundry, I want a working appliance back within an acceptable time; around 31% of consumers prioritise being able to keep using their appliance.
Assessing whether a repair is possible Ask what work is being proposed and whether the necessary parts are available. If my appliance still meets my needs, I want to know whether it can be put back into service before replacing it; around 31% of consumers put repairability first.
Choosing a replacement built to last For a washing machine, check the details of its durability index; for a dishwasher or vacuum cleaner, check its repairability index. Also look for information about spare parts and maintenance. If I replace my appliance, I want to assess its repairability or long-term durability rather than rely on a single score; around 25% of consumers put this need first.
Considering a refurbished appliance Check the seller’s status, the condition described, the tests carried out and the guarantees that apply. Before buying an appliance that has already been used, I need to understand its condition and the protections that come with the purchase; around 13% of consumers prioritise this transparency.

Two common misconceptions to avoid

  • Assuming an index guarantees that a repair is possible

    According to France’s Ministry for the Ecological Transition and ADEME, repairability and durability indices help you compare specific features of the appliances they cover. They don’t diagnose a fault with your current appliance or guarantee that a repair will be possible.

    When choosing a replacement model, check the detailed index for its category. For a broken appliance, ask a professional to assess the work needed.

  • Assuming all refurbished offers are the same

    France’s DGCCRF defines a refurbished product as a second-hand item whose functions have been fully tested and which has been repaired or restored if necessary. You should still check the condition described and the accessories included with each offer.

    Find out who the seller is, read the description of the tests and condition, and distinguish between the legal guarantees that apply and any commercial guarantees on offer.

Brands to consider

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Frequently asked questions

Which index should I check when replacing a washing machine, dishwasher or vacuum cleaner?

In France, check the durability index for a washing machine and the repairability index for a dishwasher or vacuum cleaner. According to the Ministry for the Ecological Transition, the durability index replaced the repairability index for washing machines on 8 April 2025. ADEME recommends looking at the score in detail, particularly the information about spare parts and maintenance.

Does a refurbished appliance bought from a professional seller come with a legal guarantee?

Yes. According to France’s DGCCRF, the legal guarantee of conformity applies to refurbished goods sold by a professional to a private individual in France. This is separate from any commercial guarantee. Before buying, also check the condition described and the tests carried out.

Are the new European repair rules already fully in force in France?

No. As of 10 September 2026, Service-Public stated that the rules were still being incorporated into French law and were not yet fully applicable in France. If your appliance breaks down now, check the warranties and repair options that already apply to it.