Potential Budget Buster - Washing Machine Repair/Replace

[dfchelbay]

So, today our washing machine decided to start clang clang clang like a trolley during the spin cycle. It's not an unbalanced load situation, because I took all the clothes out and it still was making a grinding noise and the drum would spin a 1/4 turn, clang, spin a 1/4 turn, clang, over and over. So, I was wondering what you all think might cause this? So far, I've googled bearings and read up on that. I'd like to read about other things this might be. If you have a key phrase, let me know what to google. We're going to call the repairman on Monday to have them look it over, but I still like to know, in advance, a little more information than...NOTHING...which is where we're at now.

Also, if anyone has had a washing machine repaired, about what does that cost? I know we all live in different areas, and it will vary. But, we've never had a washing machine issue, so if a repair person told me $325 or $45, I would have no frame of reference as to whether either was crazy high or right on the money. On average, how long does a washing machine last? We are light users, just the two of us, and most of our clothes are dry cleaned. Maybe 4-5 loads per week, or less. So, how many years do you all get out of your washing machines?

Thanks for any guidance you can give.

 

[Sarahlovy]

I don't know a lot about washer repair, but I ran across this site today, and it looks as though it could possibly be helpful for you.

http://www.repairclinic.com/Washing-Machine-Troubleshooting

Good luck!

 

[azdizzymom]

I just replaced mine last month. Had a Maytag washer and dryer for 18 years! Loved them but the dryer started making noise after several fixes. Knew they weren't energy efficient either. I got a front load Samsung washer and dryer. I swore I wouldn't do a front load but I LOVE THEM! I actually can tell a huge difference. So much less detergent. Clothes that I hang to dry take so much less time. I paid $1500+ for them. I did not do pedestal either.

My husband is always handy so he was able to fix ours--- the cheapo in him would repair repair repair rather than replace.

good luck with figuring out what you are doing...know it is not fun. My husband researched forever before deciding on Samsung. I got mine at HHGregg but they have them at Best Buy also.

 

[Jeff_G]

Here is an awsome resource for any appliance repair;
http://fixitnow.com/

Post your problem in their message board perhaps along with a short video of the sound it makes. They will be able to tell you quickly what it is.

I have repaird my washer four times now, the last repair was the clutch for about $40.
The top loaders are really simple when you start pulling them apart if you are mechanically inclines you can repair it yourself.

A transmission could run $188, Basket Driver $124, so if it were these two parts I would question replacement of the unit vs repair.

 

[Sadie22]

I posted earlier in the week after our washer broke on Sunday. It was $75 to diagnose and about $450 in parts and labor to repair our 8 1/2 year old machine, so we opted to buy a new one. We have had a machine last 20 years, but the newer ones have more on them to go wrong with all the electronics. DH usually can fix anything, but he feared even trying to take this one apart, thinking he would break something, so we did get the repairman out to diagnose the problem. Once we learned the cost to repair, we decided to put the money toward a new model.

You could Google the brand and model number of your machine with the words "Repair manual" and see what you come up with.

I used Consumer Reports recommendations as well as reading all the online reviews I could find before deciding to go with Kenmore again. Their sale this week (30 percent off tomorrow) factored into my decision.

My new washer and dryer were delivered on Thursday. (I'll be selling the old dryer to recoup some of the cost. A new dryer was an extravagance, as were pedestals for the washer and dryer, although loading and unloading is much easier with the new machines.)

 

[dfchelbay]

Thanks for the information and the links. I'll be reading them over today. Keep the info coming too...can never have enough good information.