How Much Does Washing Machine Repair Cost?
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For an average price of $50 to $450, washing machine repair costs are worth their weight in gold to keep laundry from piling up.
Highlights
- The average cost range for washing machine repair is $50 to $450, with a national average cost of $180.
- Some of the main factors that affect washing machine repair cost include the type of washing machine, the type of problem, the type of repair, the brand of washing machine, and the cost of labor.
- There are several signs that suggest a washing machine needs repair, such as unusual noises, water leaks, unpleasant smells, unclean clothes, excessive vibration, failure to spin, and a drum that’s not filling or draining.
- When it comes to washing machine repair, it’s best to leave the work to the professionals because the repair may involve working with plumbing and electrical.
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A broken washing machine can ruin a well-planned day of cleaning clothes. Those piles of dirty dishrags and teenage gym clothes can only wait so long before odors spread through the house. Fortunately, washing machine repair costs are cheaper than full replacement. According to Angi, most broken washing machines can be repaired for an average cost of $50 to $450, with most homeowners spending around $180.
The average cost of washing machine repair will depend on what part is broken or the extent of repairs necessary. Typical repairs include replacing the door, broken controls, the pump, the drum, or even the timer. The cost will also vary depending on the labor rates in the home’s geographic area, which can average between $50 to $150 per hour. This article breaks down the most common types of washing machine repairs, their associated costs, and what customers can expect from a professional washing machine repair service.
Factors in Calculating Washing Machine Repair Cost
No matter the type of washing machine, when a repair is needed it’s important for customers to understand the different factors that influence washing machine repair costs. Some repairs are less complicated than others, which means customers will pay less to repair a lid switch than to replace a broken clutch. Despite the variety of parts and repairs, it’s rare to pay more than the average cost of $50 to $450. Still, it’s best for customers to be prepared with as much information as possible about the most common factors that influence the cost to repair a washing machine.
Washing Machine Type
The type of washing machine someone owns will greatly affect the repair price. There are three main types of washing machines, each with a slightly different average repair cost, including labor.
| Washing Machine Type | Average Repair Cost (Materials and Labor) |
| Front-load | $200 to $350 |
| Portable | $85 to $150 |
| Top-load | $150 to $280 |
Most washing machines are manufactured under one of these three styles. However, those that employ alternative cleaning methods come with different repair costs, such as semi-automatic washers (which can cost between $100 and $250 to repair) or steam (which can cost between $250 and $450 to repair). The more complicated the type of washing machine, the more expensive the cost of repair.
Problem Type
Though it’s a straightforward process to wash clothes by hand—the old-school way—washing machines are much more complicated tools. The types of problems one might encounter with a broken washing machine may include the following.
- Leaks
- A door that won’t shut
- Buttons that won’t work
- Cycles that won’t run
- A drum that won’t spin
- Banging sounds in the drum
- Water not getting in or out properly
- Motor not working at all
Just as a more complicated washing machine will cost more to repair, so too will complicated problems. For instance, if the pump has gone out, customers can expect to pay nearly $400 for parts and labor. Repairs for less complicated problems, such as an inlet valve that isn’t letting water into the tub, typically cost around $160.
Repair Type
With luck, the problem a resident is experiencing with their washing machine is simple and uncomplicated. If not, the washing machine repair cost will increase with every part that needs to be purchased. Older washing machines might have discontinued parts that are hard to find, thus increasing the cost as well. Examples of types of repairs and parts for a washing machine may include bearings, belts, timers, drums, coupling, control boards, door locks, and lid switches.
The costs of these types of parts can range from $10 to $300 before labor.
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Washing Machine Brand
Many people are loyal to certain brands for appliances, TVs, phones, and so on. And certain appliance brands come at a higher price, which often means a higher repair cost as well. Still, products from some of the most expensive brands, like Bosch, are manufactured to outlast their competition. For those who are considering which washing machine brand to buy, here are some of the most common brands and their average repair costs.
| Brand | Average Repair Cost (Materials and Labor) |
| Bosch | $200 to $450 |
| Frigidaire | $150 to $300 |
| GE | $125 to $400 |
| Kenmore | $100 to $300 |
| LG | $200 to $350 |
| Maytag | $150 to $300 |
| Samsung | $200 to $350 |
| Speed Queen | $250 to $500 |
| Whirlpool | $100 to $300 |
Labor
When calculating the cost of local washing machine repair, customers will want to make sure they consider labor costs, which can vary depending on location. The average cost of washing machine repair labor is $50 to $150 per hour. This cost might not include a trip fee for the technician to travel to the customer’s home or an after-hours or emergency service fee. Customers will want to ask about these costs when they call for a quote.
Additional Costs and Considerations
Aside from the most common washing machine repair costs, there can be other costs that may or may not apply to a particular situation. Customers may need to consider replacing the washer rather than repairing it. There could be additional fees or discounts for them to ask about, in addition to possible warranties that may apply.
Repair vs. Replacement
The question all customers will eventually have to ask is whether it’s time to simply replace a broken-down appliance based on how long washers and dryers last. While most washing machines last about 10 to 14 years, one could experience a manufacturing problem that necessitates its replacement before then. There are two rules that can be followed when considering whether to repair or replace a washing machine.
- If the repair costs 50 percent or less than the cost of a new machine, repair is likely the best route to take.
- Washing machines that are 5 years or older and require frequent repairs likely need to be replaced.
Emergency Call-Out Fees
Fortunately, most washing machine problems won’t be an emergency since the user can simply stop using the machine. Leaks will typically stop when the power to the appliance is turned off. On occasion, a leak might not stop and an emergency service might be needed. In that case, customers can expect to pay an additional fee of about $100 to $200 on top of the labor and parts.
Warranties
Most washing machines from the top brands come with manufacturer warranties. These typically cover basic repairs, parts, and sometimes labor costs. This drastically reduces a customer’s out-of-pocket cost. Sometimes an extended warranty is available at the time of purchase and may be a wise investment up front.
Discounts
It never hurts to ask about discounts. And that rule especially applies to asking about discounts on any major expense, such as an appliance repair. When a customer calls for a repair quote, they’ll want to ask if there are discounts for certain categories of people such as first responders, military members, or seniors. The repair company might also be running a special discount on social media or by direct mailer, so customers will want to check for these to see if they’re available and sign up, if necessary, before they call to schedule a repair.
Washing Machine Repair Cost by Type of Repair
At this point, it’s no surprise that washing machine repair costs are highly dependent on the type of repair needed. Whether the washing machine is not spinning or the user can’t get the buttons to work properly, the repair costs will average $180 but could cost as much as $450. Customers will want to review the most common types of washing machine repairs and their associated appliance repair costs while budgeting for the repair.
| Repair Type | Average Cost (Materials and Labor) |
| Belt repair | $140 to $150 |
| Clutch repair | $250 |
| Coupling replacement | $90 to $150 |
| Door and lock repair | $110 to $280 |
| Drain hose repair | $130 to $250 |
| Drum bearings replacement | $150 to $200 |
| Drum replacement | $350 to $550 |
| Gasket repair | $230 to $300 |
| Inlet valve replacement | $160 |
| Lid switch repair | $85 to $160 |
| Motor repair | $320 to $400 |
| Pressure switch replacement | $120 to $250 |
| Pump replacement | $300 to $400 |
| Shock absorber repair | $120 to $250 |
| Timer repair | $120 to $230 |
| Transmission repair | $100 to $350 |
Belt Repair
The belt is what keeps the drum moving with the motor. When it wears out, stretches, or breaks, residents will hear a squealing sound or even smell a burned odor. It’s a common culprit when the drum won’t spin anymore. Washing machine belts typically cost $14 to $45 for the part but $140 to $150 to replace with labor included.
Clutch Repair
The parts on a washing machine sound a lot like the parts of a car: belt, hose, motor, and clutch. No matter where the clutch breaks, it’s going to fall on the higher average cost of repairs. Customers can expect to pay at least $250 for parts and labor to repair the clutch. A broken clutch is another common reason a drum only spins when it’s empty, clothes come out extra wet, or it’s not possible to hear the motor when an empty test cycle is being run.
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Coupling Replacement
A coupling needs replacing when the opposite problem from above happens: the washer isn’t spinning but the resident can hear the motor running. It may sound like a major problem, yet it’s more simple than repairing the clutch or drum. Customers can expect to pay an average of $90 to $150, including parts and labor, to repair the coupling.
Door and Lock Repair
For obvious safety reasons, washers won’t work unless the door closes securely. When the door or lock breaks, it’s a necessary fix that costs about $110 to $280. Washing machine door lock repair cost typically maxes out at $150, most of which goes toward labor since the parts only cost between $20 and $80.
Drain Hose Repair
It seems like a simple piece of equipment, but a drain hose might cost between $130 and $250 to repair. The hoses for a washing machine cost only $20 to $50, so most of the total price is labor. Since this is the part that carries the wastewater to the sewer, it’s essential that it’s repaired properly. A drain hose can’t always be patched, so replacement is usually necessary.
Drum Bearings Replacement
One of the most important parts on a washing machine is the drum bearings. In theory, they should last about 10 years, but if they fail, users will hear odd crashing sounds coming from their washer. Replacing them will cost between $150 and $200, including labor. It’s important for customers to get this problem fixed quickly so it doesn’t cause further problems.
Drum Replacement
One of the most expensive washing machine repairs is replacing the drum. Sometimes it’s worth replacing the washer if the drum repair will be too costly. Drums can leak or come with a manufacturing defect. Washing machine drum replacement usually costs $350 to $550, though some estimates put it as high as $800. The drum is about half of that cost, with labor making up the rest due to the complicated nature of the repair.
Gasket Repair
The gasket is essential for keeping the water inside the washing machine. When it cracks or is contaminated with mold, it’s time to replace it. Customers can expect to pay an average of $230 to $300 to repair the gasket. Keeping it clean and dry will help extend its life and avoid this more costly repair.
Inlet Valve Replacement
Sometimes the valve that controls the water going into the washing machine breaks or gets clogged. Users might see the drum being filled too much or too little, or they could see leaks coming from near the valve. The average repair cost is $160, and it can be done relatively quickly.
Lid Switch Repair
If the washer door is closing and locking properly but the washer still won’t turn on, it’s possible that the lid switch has broken. It’s the sensor that tells the control board that it’s safe to turn on the washing machine. A lid switch is one of the less expensive types of repairs at $85 to $160 since it’s a relatively simple fix.
Motor Repair
Just like a drum replacement, a motor repair is a costly expense. Customers will need to consider whether it’s worth replacing the entire washing machine. The cost of a motor repair averages $320 to $400. It’s possible that only the coupling or carbon brushes (which transmit electricity to help the motor move the drum) need to be replaced (at a lower cost), so customers will want to get a second opinion if they’re not ready to buy a new washing machine.
Pressure Switch Replacement
A less common type of repair is replacing the pressure switch. This is what controls how much water is allowed in the drum during wash cycles. If this pressure switch stops sensing, the washing machine won’t turn on. This repair requires specialized tools, so it’s best done by a pro at an average cost of $120 to $250.
Pump Replacement
Sometimes a washing machine tub won’t move but the user can tell that the agitator is moving. This could be accompanied by an active leak or a tub that won’t drain. Though those seem to be conflicting problems, they can both stem from a problem with the pump. If the pump needs to be replaced, customers can expect to pay between $300 and $400. The part is relatively cheap at $30 to $40, but labor will be the biggest expense.
Shock Absorber Repair
If the washing machine is shaking, it’s probably because of a broken shock absorber. There are usually two or four shock absorbers that keep t