Is it cheaper to buy or repair a dishwasher?

Author: Dr. Libby Abshire  |  Last update: Tuesday, October 28, 2025

You're better off putting the money toward a new $500 appliance. But for a $1,000 dishwasher, a $140 repair is often worth pursuing for the better part of a decade. Most appliances are covered under warranty in their first year.

Is it worth getting a dishwasher repaired?

In summary, if the repair cost is reasonable and the dishwasher is functioning well otherwise, it might be worth repairing. However, if it's costly to fix or shows signs of age, replacing it could be a smarter choice.

What is the average life expectancy of a dishwasher?

The average lifespan of a dishwasher is approximately 8-10 years. However, the longevity of your appliance can vary based on multiple factors such as usage, brand, and maintenance.

What is the most common failure on a dishwasher?

Issues like leaks, poor drainage, unclean dishes, foul odors and overall appliance operation, though infrequent, can be the most common problems with a dishwasher that isn't operating properly. In some cases, you can resolve these issues with a little elbow grease and the help of your product manual.

What is the most expensive part of a dishwasher?

The control board or electronic control unit is typically the most expensive part in a dishwasher. It manages all the dishwasher's functions, such as the wash cycles, water temperature, and the timing of the washing and drying processes.

When Should You Replace Vs Repair Appliances

What brand of dishwasher has the best lifespan?

Best Dishwashers for Longevity
  • Bosch 500 Series Top Control Built In Dishwasher.
  • Bosch 300 Series Front Control Built In Dishwasher.
  • Miele 24in Clean Touch Steel Built In Dishwasher.
  • Miele 24in Top Control Built In Dishwasher.
  • Thermador Professional Star Sapphire Built In Dishwasher.

Is it cheaper to just buy a new dishwasher?

You're better off putting the money toward a new $500 appliance. But for a $1,000 dishwasher, a $140 repair is often worth pursuing for the better part of a decade. Most appliances are covered under warranty in their first year.

Can I fix my dishwasher myself?

With the exception of the control panel, dishwashers haven't changed much in basic design over the last two decades. You can repair most dishwasher malfunctions yourself, and we'll discuss tips for do-it-yourself service and maintenance in this article.

Which dishwasher has least problems?

Bosch, ASKO, GE, Maytag, Whirlpool, and KitchenAid stand out as reputable choices known for their commitment to quality and performance. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, these brands consistently deliver reliable dishwashers equipped with advanced features and durable construction.

What is the most common thing to break on a dishwasher?

Door Latch and Handle:

The door latch and handle are among the most frequently used components of a dishwasher. Frequent opening and closing can lead to wear and tear, causing these parts to break. Additionally, if the door isn't properly aligned or closed forcefully, it can strain the latch mechanism.

At what age should a dishwasher be replaced?

You should replace a dishwasher every nine to 16 years, depending on its current state. Ongoing maintenance, along with the brand, model, and usage, can influence how long your dishwasher can last before needing a replacement.

Should I really run my dishwasher every night?

Note: For fire safety reasons, only run appliances like dishwashers while you're home, and try to avoid running them when you're sleeping. If you're not a night owl, consider running the machine early in the morning before you go to work to still snag the cost savings.

What is the average price for a dishwasher?

A new dishwasher costs $400 to $1,200 on average for a standard 24" wide built-in model. Small dishwasher prices are $250 to $500 for countertop models. The cost of a dishwasher depends on the type, size, and brand.

Is it worth it to fix a 7 year old dishwasher?

If your dishwasher is within the five-year limit, it's definitely worth fixing. But if your dishwasher is closer to ten years, finding replacement parts might be too expensive, so you'd be better off replacing your machine.

How much does it cost for a plumber to fix a dishwasher?

For minor repairs, such as fixing a clogged drain or a faulty spray arm, you can expect to pay anywhere from $75 to $200, including labor costs. However, if your dishwasher requires more extensive repairs, such as replacing the motor or control panel, the costs can quickly add up.

What is the lawsuit against Bosch dishwashers?

According to Top Class Actions, Bosch Home Appliances has agreed to a $2 million settlement in a class action lawsuit. The lawsuit alleges that several Bosch appliances were equipped with defective control panels that ultimately caused them to become unreadable due to dimming and, in some cases, fail entirely.

Which dishwasher not to buy?

Here are eight dishwasher brands to avoid, along with the reasons why they have gained a negative reputation in the industry.
  • Beko. Poor Customer Service. ...
  • Blomberg. Frequent Breakdowns & Leaks. ...
  • Haier. Costly Repairs & Replacements. ...
  • Hotpoint. Unreliable & Damaging. ...
  • Indesit. Unresponsive Customer Service. ...
  • Kenmore. ...
  • Maytag. ...
  • SMEG.

What time of year do dishwashers go on sale?

The best time to buy a dishwasher tends to be during September and October, when vendors want to make room on the floor for newer models, according to Hallam. Try for extra-deep discounts during Labor Day sales. Black Friday, even though it's in November, might offer great deals too if any older models are left.

What is the most durable reliable dishwasher?

Dependability/Reliability. Definitions. Reliable and dependable in performing job-related tasks, finishing assigned projects, meeting deadlines and appointments. Keywords: Trustworthy, Consistency, Steadfast.

How long do dishwashers last?

Average Lifespan of Dishwashers

According to reputed appliance repair technicians and manufacturers, the average home dishwasher lasts between 10 to 15 years with regular use and proper maintenance. Even an appliance from the best dishwasher brands will only last 15 to 20 years at most.

Is it cheaper to repair or replace a dishwasher?

If the repair estimate is less than $300 for labor plus replacement parts, then you're likely better off making the repair. If the repair is over $300, then you'll likely need to consider your dishwasher's age and replacement cost when making your repair/replace decision.

What is the best dishwasher brand?

As a leader in home and kitchen appliances, it's no surprise that Bosch dishwashers top many reliability reports. With over 50 years dedicated to dishwasher durability and engineering, Bosch builds dishwashing machines to last a minimum of 10 years.

Who do you call to fix a dishwasher?

Unless the dishwasher problem is associated with plumbing, you should call an appliance repair company. Appliance repair specialists have the knowledge and expertise to fix or replace your dishwasher. They can repair electrical issues, replace parts, and even handle certain plumbing problems.

What's the difference between cheap and expensive dishwashers?

Expensive dishwashers often have more advanced features such as smart connectivity, more wash cycles, quieter operation, better energy efficiency, and higher-quality materials. Cheap dishwashers typically offer basic functionality and fewer features but can still provide reliable performance.

How do you know when it's time to replace your dishwasher?

7 Signs You Have a Failing Dishwasher
  • The Dishes Don't Feel Hot When the Cycle Ends. ...
  • Water Doesn't Drain Out of the Bottom. ...
  • It's Rusting from the Inside Out. ...
  • The Latch Is Broken. ...
  • It's Over 10 Years Old. ...
  • It Overfills or Under-Fills. ...
  • Your Dishes Aren't Clean. ...
  • We Don't Repair Appliances, But We Fix Leaks.

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