Washing machine lifespan: how long does it last?
Washing machine: 8 to 11 years on average, so around 10 years in normal household use. Regular maintenance routinely pushes past the top of that range.
A washing machine lasts 8 to 11 years on average. Cycle count matters far more than age: a machine running five times a week wears out roughly twice as fast as one used twice.
The parts that fail first are almost always the same three: drum bearings, drain pump and shock absorbers. All are repairable, and usually for far less than a new machine costs.
Signs it is reaching the end
- A rumbling noise during the spin that keeps getting louder (worn bearings)
- The machine walks across the floor or vibrates heavily (tired shock absorbers)
- Water drains slowly or not at all (blocked pump or filter)
- Laundry comes out with greasy marks or a musty smell
- Leaks appear underneath the machine
The maintenance that extends its life
Clean the drain filter (bottom front of the machine)
How often: every 2 months
Run an empty 90 °C cycle with white vinegar or a descaler
How often: every 3 months
Wipe the door seal and leave the door ajar after use
How often: after every wash
Clean the detergent drawer
How often: monthly
Repair or replace?
Replacing bearings or a pump (often 120 to 250 € fitted) stays worthwhile on a machine under 8 years old, especially if it was decent quality to begin with. Past 10 years, or when several parts fail at once, replacing becomes the sensible call.
Having an out-of-warranty washing machine repaired by a QualiRépar-certified repairer in France entitles you to 50€ taken straight off the invoice. No paperwork, nothing to pay up front: the repairer deducts it from the total.
How to claim the repair bonus →Common faults
Frequently asked questions
How long does a washing machine last?
Between 8 and 11 years, averaging around 10. The number depends mostly on cycles: a large family running six washes a week will wear a machine out far faster than a household running two.
Why is my washing machine so loud on the spin cycle?
A rumbling noise that grows during the spin almost always means worn drum bearings. It is a classic failure after 7 to 8 years and it is repairable, but don't wait too long: eventually the shaft is damaged and repair is no longer possible.
How do you make a washing machine last longer?
Clean the drain filter every 2 months, run an empty descaling cycle every 3 months, don't overload the drum, and leave the door ajar between washes so mould doesn't build up on the seal.