Households looking to avoid a rushed purchase
A one-off fault is worth having diagnosed before you decide to replace your machine. A quote and an estimated repair timescale will help you weigh up the two options.
Who is this decision for?
Households dealing with a fault that may be straightforward to fix
You want to distinguish between checks recommended in the manual and technical work that should be left to a repairer, without attempting any electrical dismantling yourself.
Buyers planning ahead for their next breakdown
If you need to replace your machine, you want to compare the documented durability and repairability of each model, rather than relying on the brand alone.
What should you consider when deciding whether to repair or replace?
Start by establishing what has gone wrong, then weigh up whether a repair is possible and how long it will take against what you need from a new machine.
| What matters | What to check | Who is this for? |
|---|---|---|
| Repair quote and support | Ask for an itemised quote and check that your repairer has the QualiRépar label. Ask them to confirm whether the fault is eligible for the Repair Bonus. | I want to understand the repair costs and any support available before deciding whether to keep my machine or buy another one. Around 36% of consumers would put this decision first. |
| Getting your machine working again | Check that the part is available and confirm the repair timescale. If you’re replacing the machine, check delivery and installation arrangements. | When the washing is piling up, I need to know which option will get me back to a working machine within an acceptable timeframe. Around 29% of consumers would prioritise being able to keep on top of their washing. |
| Diagnosis and safety | Note the symptoms and any error code. Limit your checks to those allowed by the manual, with the machine switched off and unplugged. | When I don’t understand what has caused a fault, I want to gather useful information without attempting a risky technical repair. Around 21% of consumers would prioritise this cautious approach to diagnosis. |
| Durability of a replacement | For a new washing machine covered by the scheme in France, check the durability rating and its criteria for the exact model reference. Also check the size and capacity. | If I have to replace my machine, I want to review its documented repairability and reliability before choosing a model. This would be the main concern for around 14% of consumers. |
In France, the Ministry of the Economy says the durability rating has applied to the relevant front-loading and top-loading washing machines since 8 April 2025. It helps you compare new models, but it cannot, on its own, tell you whether your current machine should be repaired.
Decisions to avoid
-
Replacing your machine before identifying the fault
A symptom doesn’t necessarily point to a faulty part, and it isn’t enough to conclude that your washing machine needs replacing. ADEME recommends diagnosing the fault before making that decision.
Note what happens and at which point in the cycle, then ask for a diagnosis and a quote that sets out the proposed work, the part and the timescale.
-
Assuming you’ll qualify for the Repair Bonus
According to the Ministry of the Economy, the scheme has conditions relating to factors such as the machine’s cover, the repairer and the nature of the fault. Poor maintenance or improper use may mean you’re not eligible.
Before accepting the quote, ask a repairer with the QualiRépar label to confirm that your washing machine and its fault are eligible.
-
Choosing a new machine based on the brand or overall rating
The durability rating applies to the specific model. Its overall score is no substitute for checking the repairability and reliability criteria, or confirming the dimensions and connections.
Compare machines that are compatible with your installation, and check the details of their durability rating when you buy.
Brands to assess model by model
Bosch
Worth considering if finding genuine parts for a specific model reference is important to your decision.
- Bosch offers a parts search tool using the E-Nr reference and says compatibility for its large appliances can last for up to 15 years.
- This statement doesn’t confirm that a part is available for your washing machine. Check the exact reference and stated timescale.
Electrolux
Worth considering if you want to look at both out-of-warranty repairs and a catalogue of genuine parts.
- Electrolux France lists both services for maintaining its appliances.
- Their availability doesn’t guarantee that your repair is possible or that a part is available for a particular model.
Miele
Worth considering if you’re looking for washing machine parts in the manufacturer’s French catalogue.
- Miele France lists, among other things, drainage and sealing parts for laundry care.
- Check that they’re compatible with your appliance’s exact reference and are available.
Washing machines to consider as replacements
These front-loading washing machines are worth considering if your diagnosis leads you to replace your current appliance. Their capacity doesn’t remove the need to check installation requirements and the durability rating for each model reference.
Image unavailable
LG F4WX851Y, 11 kg
Worth considering if you’re looking for an 11 kg capacity in a front-loading washing machine.
The product title gives it an A energy rating. Before choosing this model, check its dimensions, connections and the details of its durability rating.
Image unavailable
Electrolux EWF1410N2, 10 kg
Worth considering if a 10 kg capacity suits your replacement needs.
This front-loading model is listed with Steam Anti-Allergy and TimeSave functions. Check its dimensions and installation requirements, as well as the details of the durability rating for this model reference.
Image unavailable
CHiQ JW105883G, 10 kg
Worth considering if you want to replace your machine with a 10 kg front-loading model.
The title lists a 1,400 rpm spin speed and 16 programmes. Check the full dimensions and consult the durability rating for this specific model reference before deciding.
Image unavailable
CHiQ JW85883G, 8 kg
Worth considering if an 8 kg capacity is enough for your household’s washing.
The title lists a 1,400 rpm spin speed and 16 programmes. Check all the dimensions and connections, then review the durability rating for this specific model.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get the Repair Bonus for my out-of-warranty washing machine?
Yes, if the appliance and its fault meet the scheme’s conditions and the repair is carried out by a professional with the QualiRépar label. Ask them to confirm whether you’re eligible before accepting the quote. The fact that your warranty has expired doesn’t automatically qualify you.
Can a fault caused by poor maintenance qualify for the bonus?
Don’t assume it will. According to the Ministry of the Economy, poor maintenance or improper use may make the repair ineligible under the scheme. Describe the symptoms to your repairer and ask them to confirm which conditions apply to the fault they’ve identified.
Should I check the durability rating of a new washing machine?
Yes. In France, according to the Ministry of the Economy, the rating has applied to the relevant front-loading and top-loading washing machines since 8 April 2025, and details of its criteria must be available when you buy. Compare models that suit your installation, but don’t treat the rating as a guarantee against every breakdown.