Who is this decision for?

You’re still deciding whether to repair it

A first repair visit hasn’t put your mind at rest. You want to know whether a professional can pinpoint the fault and offer a repair on terms that work for you.

You’re considering a new washing machine

After this breakdown, you want to compare the durability and repairability of the models you’re considering, without relying on the brand or a single feature alone.

You’d prefer to give an appliance a second life

You’re considering a refurbished or second-hand washing machine and want to understand what has been checked, who is selling it and what protections apply to the sale.

What should you look at?

After a fault that has been difficult to fix, first clarify what another repair would achieve. If you decide to replace the machine, check the model’s features and the terms set by its seller.

What matters to you What to check Who this suits
Another repair Ask what fault has been identified, which parts would be replaced and what conditions apply to the repair. If you’re considering the Repair Bonus, ask a QualiRépar-certified repairer to confirm that your appliance and fault are eligible. I’d rather keep my washing machine if a professional can explain what they’ll repair, despite the uncertainty left by the first visit. Around 33% of consumers would prioritise this repair option.
Durability of a new model For a new washing machine covered by the durability index, check its score and the details behind it, then confirm the model number and that it will fit your installation. After this breakdown, I want to be able to assess how repairable my next appliance is before committing. Around 27% of consumers would make this a priority.
Professional refurbishment Check the model number, the tests and refurbishment work described, the stated condition and the identity of the professional seller. A second-life appliance works for me if I can understand its condition and buy it from a professional. Around 20% of consumers would prioritise this combination.
Buying second-hand from a private seller Check the model number and test that it works before buying, then plan how you’ll collect and install it. I can arrange transport and inspect the machine in person, even without the protections that apply to a professional sale. Around 20% of consumers would prioritise this option.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Confusing second-hand with refurbished

    According to the French Ministry of the Economy, a refurbished washing machine is a second-hand item whose functions have been tested and which has been repaired or restored if necessary. A standard second-hand listing doesn’t necessarily describe any such checks or work.

    Ask for the exact model number, details of any work carried out, any faults disclosed and an invoice showing the seller’s identity.

  • Assuming all second-hand sales offer the same protections

    In France, the legal guarantee of conformity applies when a professional sells a second-hand item to a private individual, but not to a sale between private individuals, as the French Ministry of the Economy explains.

    Identify the seller before you buy. For a private sale, take time to check the model, that the machine works and its visible condition.

  • Looking only at the overall durability score

    The durability index brings together several criteria. The score alone won’t tell you whether a washing machine will fit your space or which aspects of repairability matter most to you.

    Check the scoring details for the model you’re considering, and separately confirm its dimensions and connections. The French Ministry for Ecological Transition outlines criteria including parts, maintenance and ease of disassembly.

  • Ruling out repair without pinning down the fault

    It’s worth assessing another repair based on what it would actually fix. It can’t guarantee that other components won’t develop a fault.

    Before deciding to replace the machine, ask for a quote detailing the diagnosis, proposed parts, timescale and terms of the repair.

Brands to consider for their repair resources

These resources can help you check the options for a specific model number; they don’t tell you how repairable every model from a brand is.

Bosch

Worth considering if you want to look up washing machine parts using the E-Nr. model number.

  • Bosch says spare parts for its washing machines are generally available for 15 years, and offers a search by E-Nr.
  • This general statement doesn’t confirm that every part is available. Check the model number and the components you need.

Miele

Worth considering if you want to browse a French parts catalogue for washing machines.

  • Miele France’s parts catalogue includes items such as pumps, seals, hoses and door components.
  • A component appearing in the catalogue doesn’t guarantee it will fit your model or remain available in the future.

Electrolux

Worth considering if finding parts and accessing a repair service are among your priorities.

  • Electrolux France offers a washing machine parts catalogue and directs consumers to its repair service.
  • Check your model’s PNC to identify compatible parts, and review the terms of the service you’re considering.

Washing machines to consider on Joybuy

This front-loading washing machine may be worth considering if you’re looking for a replacement after a breakdown. Before choosing this model, confirm its sale condition, the applicable terms, its dimensions and the durability information for its model number.

Bosch WGE02407FR front-loading washing machine

Bosch WGE02407FR, 7 kg, 1,400 rpm

A front-loading washing machine to consider as a replacement for a broken appliance.

The product name lists a 7 kg capacity, a spin speed of 1,400 rpm and an A energy rating.

Check the dimensions and connections against your installation. Also ask for the durability index that applies to this model number, and confirm its sale condition and the relevant warranty terms.

View on Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Does a refurbished washing machine come with the legal guarantee of conformity?

Yes, when a private individual buys it from a professional seller in France. According to the French Ministry of the Economy, this guarantee also applies to second-hand goods sold in these circumstances. It doesn’t apply to sales between private individuals. You can bring a claim within two years of delivery; for a second-hand item, the fault is presumed to have existed at the time of delivery for 12 months.

What does ‘refurbished’ mean for a washing machine?

In France, according to the French Ministry of the Economy, it means a second-hand item whose functions have been tested and which has been repaired or restored if necessary. Ask the seller what work was carried out on that specific machine, as well as its model number, condition and the accessories included.

How do you read the durability index for a new washing machine?

Compare the scores out of 10 for the models covered by the index, then look at the criteria behind each score rather than treating it as a promised lifespan. According to the French Ministry for Ecological Transition, the index has applied to covered washing machines since 8 April 2025. It takes into account factors including spare parts, maintenance, ease of disassembly and resistance to wear.

When should you consider the Repair Bonus for a washing machine?

Consider it if your washing machine is no longer under warranty and its fault is eligible for repair by a QualiRépar-certified repairer, subject to the terms set out by ecosystem. Ask them to confirm that your machine and fault qualify, and what the repair will cover, before deciding whether to keep the appliance.