We had our Kenmore (TOP of the line!) washer and dryer for just over 8 years. The dryer has been ok but we did have a Mechanic tell us that when they hit 7 years old, they are a risk for needed repair. The washer??? We have had it repaired three times. The last bill was about $400 for the door seal. Like a car, it has to be ripped apart to get to. The Repair guy said the life span of appliances these days ranges 6-8 years. He said the days of 20 year old washers is over. The Saleslady at Best Buy agreed. Tooooooo many fragile circuits and bells n whistles. My very first washer was one that my Mom n Dad bought in 1976. 1976!!!!! I got it in 1990 and had it till about 2001. It was a Kenmore.
