Households looking to avoid replacing their machine too soon
You want to compare the reliability and repairability of new washing machines that meet your needs.
Who is this guide for?
Shoppers thinking about repairs after the warranty expires
You want to be able to search for parts for a specific model and find out how after-sales service works, rather than relying on a brand’s general claims.
Households with a faulty washing machine
Before buying new, you need a diagnosis and a quote to help you decide whether repairing your machine is still worthwhile.
What to look for in a durable washing machine
According to France’s Ministry for the Ecological Transition, the durability rating has replaced the repairability rating for relevant washing machines in France since 8 April 2025. Use this score out of 10 as a starting point, then compare the breakdown with your needs and the repair options for the exact model.
| Criteria | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Durability and repairability | Compare the score out of 10 and its breakdown across similar models. Pay particular attention to how easy they are to dismantle and to the information provided about spare parts. | If you’re worried about having to replace your machine too soon, reliability and repairability come before other criteria. Around 33% of consumers prioritise this. |
| Suitability for your needs | Check the dimensions and loading type against the space available, as well as the capacity and programmes that suit your household. | A machine needs to fit the space you have and handle the laundry you wash regularly. Around 27% of consumers put this first. |
| Repair or replace | For your current machine, ask for a diagnosis and a quote that identifies the part needed. Check whether it’s still under warranty. | If your machine breaks down, you may prefer to keep it if a practical repair means you don’t need to buy a replacement straight away. Around 20% of consumers put this decision first. |
| Warranty and service | Read the terms of any commercial warranty and look up spare parts and after-sales service options for the exact model. | You want to know who to contact after buying and which parts can be sourced for your model. Access to service is a priority for around 20% of consumers. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Relying on the overall score without checking the breakdown
France’s scoring method takes several factors into account, including documentation, how easy the machine is to dismantle and spare parts. The overall score alone won’t tell you which factors matter most to your decision.
Compare washing machines suited to the same needs, then check the detailed breakdown for each model.
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Assuming a parts catalogue covers every model component
A brand’s offer of spare parts or repairs doesn’t necessarily specify the terms for every version and component.
Search for the machine’s full model reference and check the parts that matter to you, how to access them and the after-sales service arrangements.
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Confusing an extended warranty with your statutory rights
In France, a commercial warranty is separate from the statutory guarantee of conformity. The Directorate-General for Competition Policy, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control states that consumers have two years to claim under this guarantee for a new product.
Read the written terms of the extended warranty and check what it adds to your statutory rights, including any exclusions.
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Replacing a faulty machine without considering a repair
The symptom alone won’t tell you whether a repair is possible or whether it’s a better option for you than replacing the machine.
If your washing machine is out of warranty, ask for a diagnosis and a quote. According to ecosystem, the Repair Bonus may be available through a QualiRépar-accredited repairer. You can then compare the quote with the cost of buying a new appliance.
Brands to consider for spare parts and after-sales service
Bosch
A brand to consider if access to original parts and a repair service in France are important to you.
- Bosch says original parts are available for 15 years for its large appliances, and offers a repair service that covers washing machines.
- Check the model you’re considering, which parts are covered and the service terms. This general commitment doesn’t cover every repair that may be possible.
Miele
A brand to consider if you want to look up washing machine parts and check its after-sales service arrangements.
- Miele France lists washing machine parts, including drainage components, seals and filter parts.
- The catalogue doesn’t guarantee the same availability for every model and part. Search for parts for the model you’re considering.
Electrolux
A brand to consider if you want to look up original parts using your appliance’s exact details.
- Electrolux France offers a washing machine parts shop and support resources.
- Check the product number (PNC) and the part you need. Having a parts shop doesn’t guarantee the repair options available for every model.
Joybuy products
Related products coming soon.
Frequently asked questions
Does a new washing machine sold in France have to display a durability rating?
Yes. According to France’s Ministry for the Ecological Transition, the durability rating has replaced the repairability rating for relevant washing machines since 8 April 2025. Look up the score and its breakdown for the model you’re considering.
Does a high score guarantee that my washing machine will last a long time?
No. The score out of 10 indicates durability according to the criteria used for France’s rating, but it can’t predict how long an appliance will last in your home. Also check the model’s spare parts, maintenance and service arrangements.
What should I look for in the durability rating breakdown?
Pay particular attention to information about documentation, how easy the machine is to dismantle and spare parts. Guidance from France’s Ministry for the Ecological Transition also sets out criteria covering the availability and price of parts. Check the breakdown for the exact model.
Does an extended warranty replace the statutory guarantee?
No. In France, a commercial warranty is separate from the statutory guarantee of conformity. According to the Directorate-General for Competition Policy, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control, consumers have two years to claim under the statutory guarantee for a new product. Check the terms of the extended warranty separately.
Is it worth having my old washing machine diagnosed before replacing it?
Yes, if a repair may be possible. A diagnosis and quote can help you assess the fault and find out which part is needed before you decide. For an appliance that’s out of warranty, ecosystem says a QualiRépar-accredited repairer may be able to apply the Repair Bonus, but this alone won’t decide whether repair or replacement is best.