Washing machine repair: Market study shows problems with spare parts and prices

Washing machine repair: Market study shows problems with spare parts and prices

According to a report by www.tagesschau.de,

Repairing a broken washing machine can become a major problem, as a market study by the Federal Association of Consumer Advice Centers shows. Spare parts are difficult to obtain and sometimes very expensive. Manufacturers often make it difficult for consumers to obtain spare parts for their home washing machines. This emerges from a current market check by the Federal Association of Consumer Organizations (vzbv). According to the vzbv, spare parts are difficult to find, prices vary considerably and not all manufacturers adhere to the specifications. This could discourage consumers from repairing broken machines instead of buying new ones.

The EU had already issued repairability requirements two years ago in order to force manufacturers to make their products more sustainable. The European Union's Ecodesign Directive requires products to remain repairable and requires manufacturers of washing machines and dryers to have spare parts available for their customers.

In a market check of ten washing machine models from the ten best-selling brands, spare parts were generally available from eight manufacturers, but were often difficult to find on the website. In addition, two manufacturers did not fully meet the requirements, although the spare parts delivered were often significantly faster than the legally required 15 days.

In addition to the availability of spare parts, prices are also a problem. The cost of a replacement part can vary significantly depending on the brand. Consumer advocates are therefore calling for a repair index that takes the prices for spare parts into account. In addition, instructions for repairs are necessary, and there is also a need to catch up here: of the ten manufacturers checked, only four provided repair instructions.

These issues can have a significant impact on the market and consumers. Limited availability and high prices for spare parts could encourage consumers to replace defective devices rather than repair them. This could lead to an increase in e-waste and environmental pollution. It is therefore important that manufacturers follow the requirements of the EU directive and ensure better availability and price transparency for spare parts.

Ecodesign guidelines are intended to provide a remedy

Huge price differences