If your washing machine isn’t working properly, get it diagnosed before deciding whether to replace it. The fault, the machine’s overall condition and the availability of the part it needs can all affect your decision. If you’re buying a new model in France, compare the durability rating for the exact model reference and check what the score is based on. Then look separately at its capacity, dimensions and washing performance. The rating helps you compare eligible machines, but it doesn’t guarantee a particular lifespan.
You want to look at the durability rating and its criteria rather than assume a machine is repairable based on a brand’s reputation. Documentation, spare parts, ease of disassembly and maintenance all matter when making your decision.
Your machine has broken down or no longer meets your needs, but you haven’t yet decided to buy a new one. A diagnosis and identification of the part required can help you work out whether a repair is still an option.
You want to consider durability without overlooking laundry loads, available space, washing, rinsing and spinning performance, programme times or noise.
For household washing machines covered by the scheme and sold in France, the durability rating has applied since 8 April 2025, according to the ministry responsible for the ecological transition. It covers repairability and reliability; it doesn’t replace a diagnosis of your current machine or an assessment of your household’s laundry needs.
| What matters | What to check before buying | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Durability by model | Check the rating for the exact model reference and the breakdown of its criteria, including parts, ease of disassembly and maintenance. | I want to compare the information given for each machine rather than rely on the manufacturer’s name alone. Around 42% of shoppers put this need to check each model first. |
| Repairing your current machine | Find out what the fault is and which part is needed, then check whether the part is available and the repair can be carried out. | If my machine has broken down, I’d rather find out whether it can still be repaired before choosing a replacement. This is the top priority for around 33% of shoppers. |
| Suitability for your household | Compare capacity and dimensions, then consider washing, rinsing and spinning performance, noise and energy and water consumption in line with how you use the machine. | I don’t want to choose a machine whose capacity or performance won’t suit my usual laundry needs. For around 25% of shoppers, this is the priority. |
The durability rating brings together several repairability and reliability criteria. It doesn’t predict how long your machine will last under your particular conditions of use.
Check the rating breakdown for the model you’re considering, then look separately at its washing and installation specifications.
Without a diagnosis and identification of the part needed, you can’t tell whether a repair is possible. The Repair Bonus alone isn’t a reason to get a machine repaired: as ecosystem explains, eligibility depends on factors including the warranty and whether the fault is covered.
Ask for a thorough diagnosis and check that the part is available before making a decision.
The rating, parts and performance specifications relate to a specific model reference. Information published for another model may not describe the one you’re considering.
Make a note of the full model reference and check its documents, specifications and service conditions.
These examples can help you find documents and specifications to compare. A brand’s inclusion here isn’t a recommendation for its entire range.
Bosch publishes durability ratings for several front-loading washing machines, including the WAN24209FR, WGG244FSFR, WUU28T18FR and WGB256A2FR model references.
Electrolux lists the EWQ6412B top-loading washing machine with a capacity of 6 kg, a width of 40 cm and an energy rating of B.
For the W1 WCA120 WCS front-loading washing machine, Miele lists a capacity of 8 kg, a spin speed of 1 400 tr/min and an energy rating of A.
Yes, for household washing machines covered by the scheme. According to the ministry responsible for the ecological transition, the durability rating replaced the repairability rating for this category on 8 April 2025. Check the rating shown for the model you’re considering, either in store or on its online product page.
No. The rating out of 10 summarises the repairability and reliability criteria defined for the appliances covered by the scheme; it doesn’t guarantee how long an individual machine will last. Check the rating breakdown to understand which criteria matter for your choice.
Not necessarily. A diagnosis will first identify the fault and the part involved, then help establish whether a repair is possible given the machine’s condition. If you’re thinking of using the Repair Bonus, check the applicable conditions, including whether the fault is covered by a warranty and is eligible.
No. The rating covers repairability and reliability, not every aspect of performance in everyday use. Que Choisir’s testing protocol assesses washing, rinsing and spinning performance, programme times, consumption and noise separately, among other things. Focus on the criteria that matter to your household.