The Most Expensive Washing Machine Repairs (And When to Replace Instead)

Washing machines are built to last, but when they break down, some repairs can cost almost as much as buying a new appliance. Understanding which parts are most expensive to fix — and how repair costs vary across brands like Miele, Bosch, LG, and Samsung — can help you decide whether to repair or replace. In this guide, we’ll break down the most expensive washing machine repairs globally, real-world repair costs (USA, UK, Australia, Middle East), and when replacement makes more sense.

8/26/20252 min read

Comparison of costly washing machine repairs including drum, motor, and electronic control board rep

1. Drum Replacement (Most Expensive Repair)

The drum is the core of a washing machine, and when it’s damaged (due to bearing failure, corrosion, or impact), replacement is often the priciest repair.

Miele: $1,200 – $1,800 (premium German build, parts imported, high labor cost)
Bosch: $600 – $900
LG / Samsung: $400 – $650
Whirlpool / GE: $350 – $550

💡 Tip: With premium brands like Miele, drum replacement can exceed half the cost of a new unit. Unless your washer is fairly new, replacement may be the smarter option.

2. Motor Replacement

The motor drives the drum — without it, the machine won’t spin.

Miele: $700 – $1,000
Bosch: $450 – $650
LG / Samsung: $300 – $500

Motors fail less often than drums, but when they do, it’s a big bill.

3. Control Board / Electronics

The PCB (Printed Circuit Board) controls everything — wash cycles, water levels, and heating.

Miele: $500 – $750
Bosch: $350 – $500
LG / Samsung: $250 – $400

Failures usually come from power surges or moisture damage.

4. Bearings & Seals

If you hear loud grinding or knocking noises, the bearings are wearing out.

Miele: $450 – $600
Bosch: $300 – $450
LG / Samsung: $200 – $350

This repair is labor-intensive, often requiring dismantling the entire drum.

5. Door Lock & Pump Failures (Moderate Repairs)

These aren’t as costly, but worth mentioning:

Door lock: $100 – $200
Drain pump: $150 – $300

When Is It Worth Repairing vs. Replacing?

✅ Repair if: The washer is under 7 years old and the repair is under 40% of replacement cost.
❌ Replace if: It’s older than 10 years, or the repair (like drum/motor) costs 50%+ of a new washer.

FAQ – Washing Machine Repair Costs

Q: Is it worth fixing a Miele washing machine?
Yes, if it’s less than 7–8 years old and the repair is under $800. Beyond that, a replacement might be more cost-effective.

Q: What is the average life of a washing machine?

Miele: 15–20 years
Bosch: 10–12 years
LG / Samsung: 8–10 years
Budget brands: 5–7 years

Q: Why are Miele repairs so expensive?
Because Miele uses premium parts, advanced electronics, and long-lasting designs — repairs require specialized technicians and genuine imported parts.

Q: Can I repair a washing machine myself?
DIY is possible for small fixes (like unclogging drains), but major repairs (drums, motors, electronics) require professional tools and skills.

Local Note for Qatar & Doha Residents

If you’re in Doha and facing a costly repair, keep in mind that import costs and part availability can make Miele and Bosch repairs even higher than global averages.

📞 For expert washing machine repairs in Doha — including Miele, Bosch, LG, and more — contact FixMyHive:

Call: +974 7783 9040