Quick answer
A washing machine is usually worth repairing when it is under about 8 years old and the fix is a common part, such as a drain pump, lid or door lock, inlet valve, belt, or shocks. It is often not worth it when the washer is older and needs a transmission, motor, drum bearings or main control board, or when the quote approaches half the price of a comparable new washer. HomeAdvisor puts typical washer repairs at $125–$450. Get a diagnosis and quote first. Call (888) 217-0236 to reach an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP; the line is answered 24/7.
Follow the short menu, then your 5-digit ZIP. The line goes quiet for a few seconds while it connects; stay on. If it does not connect, call once more: companies taking calls change minute to minute.
Written & reviewed by Marcus ReedIICRC WRT
Reviewed November 4, 2026· Next review May 2027
A washer that stops working raises the same question every time: fix it or buy a new one. Three things decide it.
1. How Old Is It?
Many washers last about 10 to 13 years. The serial number usually encodes the manufacture date; the brand's support site explains how to read it. A washer under about 8 years old with a common repair is usually worth fixing.
2. Which Part Failed?
| Usually worth repairing | Often not worth it on an older washer |
|---|---|
| Drain pump | Drum bearings (front-loaders) |
| Lid or door lock | Transmission (top-loaders) |
| Water inlet valve | Drive motor |
| Belt or motor coupling | Main control board |
| Shocks, dampers or springs | Cracked outer tub or spider arm |
| Door boot or gasket | Several failures at once |
See washer won't drain, washer won't spin and washer drum loose.
Talk to an appliance repair technician
One call reaches an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP, answered 24/7.
3. The Quote vs a New Washer
A common rule of thumb is that if the repair costs more than about half the price of a comparable new washer, and the machine is past the middle of its life, replacing it makes more sense. Rust on the cabinet, leaks from the tub, or a noisy drum make the case for replacing stronger.
What a Repair Costs
HomeAdvisor puts typical washer repairs at $125–$450. Bearings, a transmission or a main board can exceed that range. See washer repair.
The Call
Call for a diagnosis that names the part, so you can decide with a real quote. (888) 217-0236 is answered 24/7 and connects you to an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP for washers, dryers, ovens, stoves, cooktops and freezers. Follow the short menu, enter your 5-digit ZIP and stay on while it connects; if it does not connect, call once more.
Reading to confirm what you already suspect?
Confirm it in two minutes instead — the pro on this line answers questions about YOUR situation all day: what it is, what it should cost, whether you even need service. If you want, they'll set the appointment on the same call.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth fixing a washing machine?
Often yes for a younger washer with a common failed part like a pump, lock, valve or belt. Often no for an older washer needing bearings, a transmission, a motor or a main board.
How long should a washing machine last?
Many last about 10 to 13 years with normal use. Heavy use, hard water and overloading shorten that.
What is the most expensive washer repair?
Drum bearings on many front-loaders, a transmission on top-loaders, the drive motor, and the main control board are usually the costliest.
Sources
Methodology: How we source and verify data · Report an error
Disclaimer: HearthDry is an independent educational resource. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or insurance advice. Consult licensed professionals before making decisions about your property or insurance claims.
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