Should You Repair or Replace Your Miele Dishwasher?

The Miele Difference

Unlike budget dishwashers that last 7-10 years, Miele dishwashers are engineered for 20 years of use. This fundamentally changes the repair vs. replace calculation.

What this means for you: A 12-year-old Miele might be "middle-aged" while a 12-year-old budget brand is past its expected lifespan. Don't apply standard appliance logic to premium machines.

The 50% Rule (And When to Break It)

The conventional wisdom says: if repair costs exceed 50% of replacement cost, buy new.

For a Miele dishwasher:

• New cost: $1,500 (average)
• 50% threshold: $750

But here's the nuance most guides miss:

When to Follow the 50% Rule

• Multiple systems failing simultaneously
• Unit is 15+ years old
• You've had 3+ repairs in the past year
• Parts are becoming hard to source

When to Break the 50% Rule

• Single component failure on otherwise healthy unit
• Unit is under 10 years old
• High-end model with features you'd want in replacement
• Repair restores full functionality

Cost Analysis by Repair Type

Age-Based Decision Framework

Under 5 Years Old

Almost always repair. Your Miele is barely broken in. Even a $500 repair is justified — you're buying another 10-15 years of use.

5-10 Years Old

Repair in most cases. You're in the sweet spot of the appliance lifecycle. Major repairs are still cost-effective.

10-15 Years Old

Evaluate carefully. This is where the decision gets nuanced:

• Simple repairs: Yes
• Major component failure: Maybe
• Multiple issues: Consider replacement

15+ Years Old

Repair selectively. Your Miele has served well. For simple fixes (seals, latches), repair. For major components, replacement may offer better value.

Signs Your Miele Should Be Replaced

Even premium appliances reach end-of-life. Watch for:

1. Rust in the tub — structural integrity compromised
2. Multiple error codes appearing in sequence
3. Parts no longer available for your model
4. Recurring same issue after repair
5. Repair history shows escalating costs

Signs Your Miele Should Be Repaired

Don't give up on a good machine too soon:

1. Single, identifiable problem with clear fix
2. No visible rust or structural damage
3. First major repair in unit's history
4. Parts readily available
5. Unit otherwise performs well

The Hidden Costs of Replacement

Before deciding to replace, factor in:

• Purchase price: $1,200-$2,500 for comparable Miele
• Delivery/installation: $100-200
• Disposal of old unit: $50-100
• Potential cabinet modifications: $0-500
• Learning curve: New interface, features

Total true replacement cost: $1,350-$3,300

Suddenly that $400 repair looks different.

What About Efficiency?

Modern dishwashers use less water and energy, but the savings are modest:

• Water savings: ~1 gallon per cycle
• Energy savings: ~$10-20 per year
• Break-even on efficiency alone: 15+ years

Verdict: Energy efficiency alone doesn't justify replacing a working Miele.

Making Your Decision

Ask yourself these questions:

1. What's the specific problem? (Single issue vs. multiple)
2. How old is the unit? (Under/over 10 years)
3. What's the repair quote? (Under/over 50% of new)
4. What's the repair history? (First repair vs. recurring)
5. Is the unit otherwise performing well?

If most answers favor repair, repair. If most favor replacement, replace.

Next Steps

If You're Leaning Toward Repair:

1. Find the error code if your unit displays one
2. Schedule a diagnostic with a certified technician
3. Get a written quote before authorizing work

If You're Leaning Toward Replacement:

1. Research current Miele models
2. Compare features to your current unit
3. Factor in all replacement costs
4. Consider timing (sales, promotions)

This guide is for informational purposes. Every situation is unique — when in doubt, get a professional diagnosis before deciding.