Should I Repair or Replace My Dishwasher?

Short answerCompare the dishwasher's age with its average life. Sources put it at about 9 to 15 years, so, as our rule of thumb, a younger machine with one failed part favors repair, and an older one with repeat problems or a costly repair favors replacing it. Our repair estimate is on this page.

What this costs

Our national estimates, not quotes.
Option	Job	Low	High
Repair	Appliance Repair	$90	$460

Our rule of thumb

No source sets these age bands. This is our own rule of thumb, derived from the lifespan figures in NAHB's 2007 study and from the Department of Energy, which put average life at about 9 to 15 years.

Younger than the low end of that range, with one problem: lean toward repair.
Inside the range, with a minor problem: it could go either way, so get an estimate first.
At or past the high end, or with repeat problems: lean toward replacement.

A wide range, so age alone won't settle it

NAHB's 2007 study lists 9 years and the Department of Energy estimates about 15. ENERGY STAR says standard-size certified dishwashers are about 20% more energy efficient and about 30% more water efficient than standard models, which is also worth weighing.

Run the numbers

Our repair estimate is on this page. Get a quote for a replacement and compare the two.

Dishwasher Not Draining? How to Fix It Yourself

Common questions

Is a dishwasher that won't drain worth fixing?

Often, on a younger machine, because the problem may be something simple. See our guide on a dishwasher that won't drain before you pay for a service call.

Should I repair a 12-year-old dishwasher?

It is inside the 9 to 15 year range, so a minor repair could still be reasonable. A costly repair or repeat problems make a stronger case for replacing it.