At what point do we get rid of this washing machine?

[JoeP]

We have a Maytag Bravos washing machine, which is a high efficiency top loading machine. It has a lot of nice features, and does a very good job of cleaning clothes...when it works. We got it about 3 years ago, and during the initial warranty period we had a couple issues repaired. One was a cracked tub, which is a pretty major one. Then we got the extended warranty, which more than paid for itself because of additional failures. When that was up, I made a couple repairs myself using knowledge from a web site. Then we've had 2 out of warranty repairs that have come to a total of probably $400.

So overall, we're about $700 in the hole by paying for repairs and warranties.

We're at the point where we miss our brash "inefficient" machine. I'm tempted to sell this one on CL for $300 as-is, with full disclosure, and buying a dumb top loader for $400. Few things are worse than dealing with a full washing machine that won't unlock the lid, or one that flashes an error in the middle of a cycle.

What would you do? Cut losses or soldier on?

[bjl584]

At $700, it isn't really worth fixing anymore.

I'd use it till it dies again then replace it.

[creditcardfree]

I sure don't think you are getting the savings of the efficiency the machine is said to provide. I'd move on and sell if you can.

[AnotherReader]

Buy the simplest Whirlpool or GE top loader with the larger capacity (3.7 or 3.8 cf) the next time Lowes or Home Depot has a good sale. Black Friday is coming up, that's usually a good time. I put these in rentals all the time and have very little trouble. I have the Kenmore version of the least expensive Whirlpool dryer with the door that opens as a shelf in my house. No problems in 10 years.

You won't likely get $300 for the Bravos, but I would not fool with it any longer. Take the $75 you will likely get for it and be done with it.

[JoeP]

Thanks for the advice.

I am sorely disappointed that this machine is so unreliable. As consumers, we're constantly encouraged to embrace new technology in the name of efficiency and features. I feel betrayed having spent our money on an appliance that should have saved resources, only to find that the poor reliability absolutely had a huge negative impact on the environment: parts replaced, parts disposed of, and gas money for repair personnel come to mind.

So yes, we are looking for a simple and inexpensive "old school" top loader now. I had made a couple repairs to our old GE washing machine with a dumb mechanical timer and no logic control board.

[snafu]

I suggest some research via Consumer's or similar at your library to learn which of the few manufacturers and models have the least issues. If you look at last year 2012-13, you may note a pattern. We have had luck buying a Builder's unit when the show home's owner wanted the high end model and wanted the set gone.

[JoeP]

FWIW, I was able to repair the machine last night.

The drain pump has 2 wires going to it, and they connect using punch-down connectors. Those are small metal V-shaped contacts that cut into the insulation and make contact with the conductor inside the wire. Anyway, the wires had come out of a small plastic clip that prevented them from moving around, and the washing motion had fatigued one of the wires to the point of coming off the punch down connector.

Every time I make a fix like this, the euphoria of having fixed it for free clouds my judgment. I am even guilty of saying, "Ok, this is the LAST time it will fail!" only to have something else go wrong a few months later. It will go up for sale this winter regardless.

[disneysteve]

Buy the simplest Whirlpool or GE top loader with the larger capacity (3.7 or 3.8 cf) the next time Lowes or Home Depot has a good sale.

So many people are sucked in by the newest and latest technology and features and bells and whistles. All that means is that there are more things that can break and go wrong. We usually go for a step or two above the cheapest but that's about it, and you can usually easily see the quality difference there - metal parts instead of plastic, for example. I'm shocked when I see that people are spending $1,000 and more on a washing machine. Our clothes come out just fine from our $400 washer. Maybe it uses more electricity or water but not nearly enough to negate the $600+ savings.

[JoeP]

So many people are sucked in by the newest and latest technology and features and bells and whistles. All that means is that there are more things that can break and go wrong.

There is a certain amount of guilt associated with being suckered in as well. We're told how reducing usage is a good thing, and we should buy more efficient appliances and cars. Plus, there is a bling factor of having that stainless trim and touch screen.

[snafu]

Good on you for using your skills and determination to again fix your Maytag Bravo so that it functions. Since you asked...get rid of the lemon Now! It's a hassle but I hope you'll take a photo, write an ad and offer it For Sale on your local FB sale page, Kijijji and CraigsList. The new 2015 appliances are out so there should be better prices for 2014 production. Would you consider scratch or dent units since that doesn't affect function? What features are used and needed? Can you pass up the cool look stainless since it doesn't make clothes any cleaner? Are you willing to reject the extensive 'Bells & Whistles," use knobs rather than logic control board etc? I reiterate, check Consumer's for their repair and reliability report for Washers.

At this point I'd reject Kenmore products only because Sears is doing so poorly.

[krantcents]

I usually replace any machine or car when the repairs are more than the value of the equipment or replacement. I would have replaced the washer before I would spend $400. I recently replaced my wife's 17 year old car when the repairs added up to a couple thousand dollars.

[cschin4]

We finally decided to get a new Kenmore HE top loader and dryer. I love them! Sooo happy.