You hear a loud bang. The drum stops spinning. Water leaks everywhere. Your washing machine dies right before laundry day. Now you’re staring at the broken machine, wondering: is it worth repairing a washing machine? Or should you just buy a new one?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But if you live in Adelaide and you’ve been paying $300+ for a new machine, plus delivery and installation, you might be surprised how often repair makes sense. I’ve fixed over 1,200 washing machines in the last eight years. Most people assume repair is a waste of money. They’re wrong.
When Repair Is the Smart Choice
Not all breakdowns are created equal. Some issues cost less than $100 to fix and can add another 3-5 years to your machine’s life. The most common fixable problems:
- Drain pump clog - $80-$150 to clear or replace. Happens all the time in hard water areas like Adelaide. A simple filter clean can save you hundreds.
- Door lock failure - $120-$180. The lock wears out after 8-10 years. It’s a small part, but the machine won’t start without it.
- Motor brushes worn out - $90-$160. Common in older models. Replacing brushes is like giving the motor a tune-up.
- Water inlet valve leak - $110-$190. A $25 part that fails often after 7+ years of use.
- Drum bearing noise - $250-$350. Loud grinding? That’s the drum bearings. It’s expensive, but still cheaper than a new machine.
These aren’t rare issues. In fact, over 60% of machines I’ve seen in the last year were fixable with parts under $100. If your machine is under 8 years old and the problem isn’t the drum or motor, repair is almost always the better move.
When It’s Time to Walk Away
There are red flags that mean repair isn’t worth it. Here’s when to stop spending money:
- Machine is 10+ years old - Even if the part works, other components are aging. You’re just delaying the next breakdown.
- Repair costs more than 50% of a new machine - If fixing it costs $500 and a new one is $800, you’re not saving much. Plus, new models are 30-40% more energy efficient.
- Multiple repairs in the last 12 months - One fix? Fine. Two or three? The machine is falling apart. It’s not a repair problem - it’s a reliability problem.
- Brand is no longer supported - If your model was made in 2012 and parts take 6 weeks to order, you’re stuck waiting for a fix that might never come.
- It’s a budget model - Machines under $400 new were never built to last. Repairing them is like patching a plastic bucket.
One client in Norwood had a 12-year-old Samsung that needed a new control board ($420). He asked if he should fix it. I checked the model. It was a $350 machine from 2013. The new one he bought for $750 lasted 8 years. He saved money in the long run by replacing it.
Cost Comparison: Repair vs. Replace
Let’s break down the real numbers. These are average prices in South Australia as of 2025.
| Option | Cost Range | Expected Lifespan After | Energy Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Repair (minor issue) | $80 - $200 | 3-7 years | Same as before |
| Repair (major part) | $250 - $500 | 2-5 years | Same as before |
| New budget machine | $500 - $700 | 6-8 years | 3-4 stars |
| New mid-range machine | $750 - $1,100 | 8-12 years | 4-5 stars |
| New premium machine | $1,200 - $1,800 | 10-15 years | 5 stars |
Here’s the math: If you spend $400 to fix a 7-year-old machine that’s already used 60% of its life, you’re paying $133 per year for the next 3 years. A new $800 machine with a 10-year lifespan? That’s $80 per year. You’re paying more upfront, but less over time.
And don’t forget electricity. A 4-star machine uses 20% less power than a 2-star one. Over 10 years, that’s $200-$300 saved on bills. That’s like getting a free repair.
What You’re Really Paying For
When you fix a washing machine, you’re not just paying for a part. You’re paying for:
- Labour - $80-$120 per hour. Most repairs take 1-2 hours.
- Parts markup - A $30 part might cost you $80. Repair shops need to cover inventory, transport, and warranty.
- Convenience - No waiting for delivery, no hauling out the old one, no setup.
But when you buy new, you’re paying for:
- Technology - New machines have sensors, steam cycles, Wi-Fi, and better spin speeds.
- Warranty - 2-5 years of coverage. Repairs? Usually 3 months.
- Resale value - A 2-year-old machine holds value. A 12-year-old one? Worthless.
Repair is a short-term fix. Replacement is a long-term investment.
How to Decide - A Simple Rule
Here’s the easiest way to know what to do:
- Check the age. If it’s under 6 years old, repair it.
- If it’s 7-8 years old, only repair if the cost is under $250.
- If it’s 9+ years old, replace it - unless it’s a premium brand and the repair is under $200.
- If the repair cost is more than half the price of a new machine, walk away.
Also ask: Do I like this machine? If it’s loud, slow, or you’ve had to fix it twice already, you’re not saving money - you’re clinging to frustration.
Where to Get Reliable Repairs
Not all repair services are equal. Some charge $150 just to show up. Others use cheap parts that fail in a month. Here’s what to look for:
- Local, independent technicians - Big chains like Electrolux or Whirlpool service centers often overcharge. Smaller shops in Salisbury or Port Adelaide know the models inside out.
- Ask about parts - Do they use OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts? Or generic? OEM lasts longer.
- Check warranty - A 3-month warranty on parts and labour is standard. Anything less? Red flag.
- Read reviews - Look for recent reviews mentioning washing machine repairs, not just fridge fixes.
I’ve seen techs charge $300 to replace a pump that costs $40 online. They make money on the markup. You lose time and money.
What to Do If You’re Still Unsure
Take a photo of the error code. Write down the model number. Call two local repair shops. Ask:
- What’s the part cost?
- What’s the labour cost?
- How long will the fix last?
- Do you have the part in stock?
Compare that to the price of a new machine at Harvey Norman, Bunnings, or Kogan. If the repair is under $300 and the machine is under 8 years old, go for it. If it’s over $400 and the machine is older than 9 years? Buy new.
And here’s one last tip: If you’re replacing it, don’t just grab the cheapest one. Look for a 4.5-star energy rating and a 5-year warranty. The difference in bills and reliability is worth the extra $200.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to repair or replace a washing machine?
It depends. If your machine is under 8 years old and the repair costs less than $300, repair is usually cheaper. If it’s older or the repair costs more than half the price of a new machine, replacement saves money over time - especially with better energy efficiency.
How long should a washing machine last?
Most washing machines last 8-12 years with normal use. Premium models with stainless steel drums and better motors can last 15 years. Budget machines often fail before 6 years.
Can I fix my washing machine myself?
Some things you can: cleaning the filter, unclogging the drain hose, checking for loose belts. But anything involving the motor, control board, or drum bearings needs professional tools and knowledge. DIY fixes on complex parts often make things worse.
What’s the most common washing machine repair?
The drain pump clog. It’s caused by lint, coins, or detergent residue. It’s cheap to fix - usually under $150 - and happens in nearly half of all repairs.
Should I buy a new washing machine with a 10-year warranty?
Yes - if the warranty covers the motor and drum. Most warranties only cover parts, not labour. A 10-year warranty on the motor means the manufacturer stands by its build quality. That’s a good sign.
Next Steps
If your machine is still running but acting up, don’t panic. Write down the model number and error code. Call one local repairer for a quote. Compare it to the price of a new 4.5-star machine at your local hardware store. Make the decision based on cost per year - not just upfront price.
And if you’re replacing it, look for models with stainless steel drums, inverter motors, and at least 4 stars. They cost more upfront, but they’ll save you money every time you turn it on.
