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Diane of St. Louis MO (07/18/08)
Purchased a Kenmore HE 2 plus washer in Jan, 07 from the Sears Outlet in Fenton, Mo. Within the first 6 mos the unit stopped working, and service technicians were dispatched none fewer than 7 times for repairs. This resulted in not having a washing machine for several weeks. Upon the third visit the technician stated that they would be replacing the unit if it broke again. Didnt happen....
Now its July 08 , and it's broke again. We were highly anticipating the advantages of owning a high efficency front loading washer. This one has been a complete piece of junk coupled with the worst customer service ever.
Service fees/parts cost for a lemon washer that should have been replaced by Sears within the 1 yr warranty. Can't wash clothes until unit is fixed.
Michael of Honolulu HI (07/16/08)
We purchased a Kenmore Oasis top-loading washing machine and dryer a little over a year ago. I have a problem with the Auto Temp Control beeping and continually changing while washing. I contacted Sears to see if there was a recall on the Kenmore Oasis (Top Loading) and there is one by Whirlpool -- for the control board and they are replacing the part and labor at no charge, but just not for MY specific machine after I gave the service rep the machine's serial number. I was told the bugs were fixed prior to my machine's manufacturing date. Obviously not if I'm having the same issues that triggered a recall!
This set costs over $2500 and neither Sears or Kenmore is willing to stand behind the product with a known recall product because the bugs were supposed to be worked out prior to my machine's manufactured date! Now on Sears' website -- you can't even order the control unit assembly because it's not only backordered, but there is a little disclaimer saying that the part is not even the original manufacturer's part, just a reasonable replacement. I am very upset that we spent such a significant amount of money for a product and it barely lasted a year!
Control unit assembly cost $117.85 User interface cost $150.95
Jerome of Hephzibah GA (06/30/08)
I bought a Kenmore front loading washer in Febuary 2008. In June 2008 it quit working. It showed a malfunction code code of F32, whgich no-one in Sears or the Sears repair center knows what it means. It does however prevent the machine from working. I called the repair center on Friday, 20 June 2008 to set up an appointment. They said a repairman would be out on Wednesday, 25 June 2008, between 12:00pm and 3:00pm. When the repairman did not show by 3:00pm on that Wednesday, I called the repair center and they told me that they had no record of me ever calling. I rescheduled for Monday, 30 June 2008, and the repairman was supposed to show between 8:00am and 12:00pm. Again, no show.
On Wednesday, 25 June 2008 when they told me that they had no record of me calling, I called the local Sears store where I bought the washer from and, after about 20 minutes of having to keep calling back due to the phone in the washer dept. just kept ringing until it disconnected, I finally spoke to one of the washer sales persons, the one who sold the washer to me was not available. He said he would have to call me back. He never did. On Monday, after the repairman failed to show once again, I called the repair center and was told that their repairman was running behind schedule, and that they would have him call me to let me know when he would be here. That was at 12:15pm. By 2:00pm, I still had not heard from the rapairman.
I had started calling the local store at 11:30 on Monday, 30 June 2008, and this time, after being put through the same routine of being transferred to the appliance dept. and no-one answering the phone, gwetting hung up on again and again for about 30 minutes, (about 15 calls all together), I finally was able to talk to manager, who was the cashiers manager. She said she would talk to someone and call me back. That was around 1:00pm. Again, by 2:00pm I still had not heard and am still waiting for anyone from Sears to call.
We have had to make several trips to a local laundry mat to wash clothes, which costs us between 10 to 15 dollars each trip (we have made 5 trips already.) not to mention the gas it takes. I have taken two days off from work already and still cannot use the washer that I paid Sears over one thousand dollars for four months ago. Does Sears not stand behind its products anymore? Unless they can improve their service, I do not think I will be patronizing Sears anymore.
Claire of Kirksville MO (06/25/08)
My Kenmore washing machine is less than 2 years old and the timing belt has gone out. I have never had a problem with a washer in less than 8 years of service, and that's when the kids were young and my husband would leave nails in his pockets. Now I do one or 2 small loads a week (nail free). I would never buy another Kenmore product.
Ramona of Prescott Valley AZ (06/14/08)
I to bought a calypso by kenmore because I was told it was top of the line. 3.5 yrs later it will cost over $700 to repair the machine. The washer has been a pain since day 1 and the dryer takes forever to dry towels now how is that an energy saver when you have to dry them over and over again. I will never buy Kenmore again and I will never shop at Sears again. I choose to shop where people will be honest about a product instead of selling a piece of junk. Also we were never notified of a class action law suit.
La'tasha of Garland TX (06/06/08)
We purchased a Kenmore elite washer dryer. We were told that it was the top of the line. We paid top dollars for the washer and the dryer and was told that it had the quiet feature on it as well. We purchased a warrenty, but didn't fill we need to renew it. However we have had the appliances about 5 years we are having major problems with the appliances that does not constitute wear and tear.
We spent a lot of money for the washer and dryer and they work when they want to. Lots of times we push the buttons and nothing will happen or the wrong thing will light up. Sometimes in the middle of the night we hear a beeping noise and both of the appliances will just beep all night until you unplug them. They will not shut off with out you unplugging them.
Julie of Brockton MA (06/02/08)
I bought a Kenmore washer/dryer back in late December of '07. A month and a half ago it started to trip my circuit breaker. A technician came out 3 Saturdays ago (with the hours at work that I keep, I have to schedule for Saturdays). Stood there, looked at it, turned it on for a few minutes and said, I don't see anything wrong with it. Seems fine to me. After he left I tried doing another load...to no avail it tripped again. I called back, they scheduled for the following Saturday. Which was this past Saturday (5/31/08).
This tech was not at all happy. It couldn't have made it more obvious. Talking in a mono tone, maybe one smile.I told him many times it only tripps when there is a load of laundry in there. He proceeds to turn the dryer on EMPTY. Test this, test that. Stand there thinking. Then he tells me he is going to replace the motor (it's under warranty thank God) and takes a very short time to put it in. He said if I have any more problems to call. So he left and I put the wet clothes into the dryer and it finished that cycle. When I put in another load it tripped...twice. A third load it tripped twice.
I call back that same day (these so called customer service reps need to adjust their attitude) This customer service woman told me she had put in a message to the tech to call me. He never did. So while at work this morning I called AGAIN and with good obvious reason I had a huge attitude with them. Told her the problem, got the I'm sorry and proceeded to schedule ANOTHER tech to come out to ruin yet another Saturday. I said, Why can't I just haul it in my truck back to the store and get a new one? She said, The tech needs to decide if you need a new one and you would also need 4 MORE COMPLAINT CALLS FOR THIS SAME PROBLEM.
I've called 4 times as it is. Then I proceeded to tell her, Oh, so this is why Sears has such terrible customer service! Another sorry from someone who clearly wasn't. I have had it and will NEVER give Sears my services again. Not for appliances, clothing...nothing.
Alexandra of San Francisco CA (05/19/08)
I bought a set of Kenmore Elite HE4 washer & dryer on November 26, 2005, paid $2,322.63 for the set. I bought Kenmore because I had Kenmore washer & dryer that lasted me over 20 years. They were still working fine when Sears hauled them away. I wanted to be a good citizen and upgraded to more energy and water-efficient units. I started to get and F and H code on my washer panel, indicating water intake problem. I check the hose, the filter and the water pressure. Everything was fine. I canceled & restarted the cycle and it would run again. This probably started within the 2-year control board warranty period. But I thought, just like a computer, sometimes problems can resolve themselves by turning the computer off and on again.
Then the same problem happened more frequently, and now the same codes will come on and won't work anymore. A very surely serviceman came (after 2 cancellations),charged me $72 and told me that it will cost me $364.72 for a new computer board and $163.00 to install it. We are a retired couple who only wash maybe two loads of clothes every 3 weeks or so, we never overload and always used the HE soap. We actually take our heavy stuff to the laundromat.
We went to Sears to complain. We were told that the washer is 2 years old, as if it is an old piece of junk already! The manager presumably called the manufacturer and was told there had been no complaint about the washer and therefore there's nothing they can do for me (but tried to sell me an extended warranty). I went on this consumer affair website and found 15 complaints on Kenmore washers and 42 complaints on Sears_washers so far in 2008! They do not sell the HE4 anymore, but there's no recall either. This is so frustrating! What can consumers do to get recourse? Help!
After slightly over 2 years, the washer that I paid $1,399.99 plus tax for is no longer working even though it looks brand new. I am not willing to pay $527.72 to have it fixed, especially not knowing when and how the new control board may go out again. I am more than happy to have a simple machine without electronics but they don't sell that old fashion stuff anymore. We are retired people on fixed income. I thought that was the last wash I would have to buy!
Chris of Pleasanton CA (05/15/08)
My 7-month-old washer, model Kenmore HLT4012908, front-load, failed 3 days ago. Repairman diagnosed computer failure, with part back-ordered until 5/29, which means 17+ days without a washer. I requested a loaner or replacement machine, which they denied, stating You are past the 3-month warranty window. The part is back-ordered from overseas. We will try to get the part sooner at another vendor and will let you know by next Tuesday. That is all we can do.
During this process I spoke with 4 different Sears employees and all of them referred me to other departments, including the store manager. I finally told them it was their responsibility to resolve this issue amongst themselves and I was not calling anyone else there. I originally purchased the washer for $951.74, and it was delivered the next day; but they cannot repair it for almost 3 weeks? And they are unwilling to exchange it or even loan a machine?
BUYERS BEWARE of Sears Kenmore washers with their poor machine performance, inadequate parts replacement inventory, and even worse customer service. The employees all end their phone calls the same way with Can I help you with anything else? and Thank you for calling Sears. How absurd -- they can help no one, not even themselves. No more dealings with Sears for me.
Elaine of Morganville NJ (05/15/08)
We purchased a new Kenmore front load washer & matching gas dryer in October, 2004. Since January 2008 I have been complaining about rust on the door of the washer. Sear service couldn't care less. They finally sent someone to the house to inspect it. Their final report is that even thought the unit is only 3 years old the rust problem is cosmetic & therefore not covered under any warranty. I argue that its a design flaw, but to no satisfaction.
Both of these appliances are pieces of junk. My old machines were over 25 years old & worked with no problem! We were trying to be energy efficient by getting newer models. Should have stuck with the old ones! We have had a Sears credit card for over 35 years, We will never use it again...or shop in any Sears store.
Mary of Mcallen TX (05/10/08)
Sears Kenmore Elite Washing Machine. Purchased May 2004. On May 2, 2008, I called the Kenmore Repair center to report that my washing machine would not spin the clothes properly on any o fthe spin cycles. The repair center advised me that the transmission had gone out in my 4 year old washing machine and it would cost me approximately $375 or more to get it repaired, or I could purchase a warranty for $250 that would cover the parts for the repair!!!
This machine was delivered new to this address, and is used in a household of 2 middleaged professionals, who wash about 5 normal loads a week, no heavy duty or extra dirty loads (mostly sheets, towels, underclothes and a few shirts.) The machine is never overloaded, or out of balance. We feel that this product should not have broken this quickly with so little use. WE will not buy Kenmore appliances again.
Patricia of Sonoma CA (05/08/08)
I bought a Sears Kenmore Stackable wahsing machine. It was installed by Sears in June 2001- it no longer works. The bearing broke. This is a common problem that I am reading a across the internet. This machine should be recalled. I paid alot of money for it and it lasted years? Not fair. It is just me and my son. I don't do that much laundry
I jsut lost my job. It would have cost over $600 to fix. I might as well buy a brand new machine.
Ronald of West Allis WI (04/09/08)
After six years the rear bearing is going on Kenmore 417 Front Load and putting oil/grease in wash and on clothes with brown spots and streaks.
Good many clothes have been ruined by the stains that don't seem to be able to be cleanable. Loss of use of washer and rip-off from paying large sum of money for defective machine. Repair cost is almost same as what we paid for it and, based on many complaints of others on same machine, no reason to think a high repair bill is short of throwing free money to Sears. Not cost effective purchase or ethical sales.
Lazaro of Miami Lakes FL (03/30/08)
After 10 years of using Kenmore washer/dryer combination it was time to upgrade to the latest HE2 to save on water and electric bill. Based on a good experience, we decide to go again with Kenmore and paid around $1500. The washer is a junk, problems with the front seal, water liking, smells bad. A couple of month after the warranty expired, all lights came up. Called SEARS and they offer $300 for a service. Searching on the web I found a similar article and it was due to a kid's sock going to the drain pump. How could that happened? What design is that?
Now again a different F21 code. Searching on the web people were pointing to clogged connectors or pressure switch. Checked and everything was cleaned and finally decided to purchase the switch. Called SEARS and their delivery time was 15 days due to backorder. Ordered on line, cheaper and faster delivery. Replace it but same thing. Others are pointing to motor or motor control board. After a couple of years of not a heavy using of this machine, it looks like too many problems for a top of the line washer. In my opinion it is a too cheap design and construction. I was inspecting the electrical connection and they are a joke, how easy they could be unplugged do to movement. Found this site and decided to write my experience.
A lot of time searching on the web for solutions since SEARS response was a $300 deal. Purchase of a Pressure switch for $50. A lot of time checking all connections and trying to solve the problem. The Washer still broken.
Monika of Strongsville OH (03/27/08)
I own a Sears Kenmore Elite Front Loader washing machine, HE3. I am very unhappy with this machine. My whites are dingy and there is always an awful smell that comes out with the first water that is pumped out. The rest of the time the machine has a constant moldy smell inside. I have owned the machine for 4 years now and it already needs major repairs.I have owned several Sears Kenmore top loaders over the last 40 plus years and never had any major problems with them. I would not recommend this HE3 front loading machine to anyone.
Jennifer of Fox Point WI (03/10/08)
Our 8 year old Kenmore front loading washer is shot. The bearings on the drum went out, and we were told it would be a $700 fix to an $800 machine. I have researched on the web that this is a common problem with this model. Why is it not a recall? I used liquid HE detergent, and my washer still broke! The washer is only 8 years old; I would expect it to last a lot longer than that.
Deborah of Williamsburg VA (03/09/08)
About 15 months after I purchased the Kenmore Oasis Canyon capacity washer, I had to replace the Interface Relay. Through multiple contacts with Customer Service, then a BBB complaint, I had to pay $170 for the fix and took 2 days off work. This is a known problem with the Kenmore Elite washers and still they won't fix it for free. Now my dryer won't start and I see on all the message boards that this is another known defect. I'll have to take another day off work (possibly two) and pay the $300 repair cost (per the websites with similar problems).
Like most of the other complainants, I saved up a lot of money to buy top of the line washer/dryer and they are much less reliable and much more costly than GE products. They have repeatedly told me to pay $129 a year to prevent the added costs of repairs and I'm frustrated by what I see as extortion. I detest the financial cost and having to take time off of work for this.
C.d. of Warner Robins GA (02/23/08)
I purchased a Sear's Kenmore Elite washer. From the beginning, the fast spin cycle would not work without making a horrible noise. I did all the balancing requirements (more than a few times) which did no good at all. After about two years, it got so bad that I knew it was going to stop working; and then it stopped agitating as well. I had a repairman come out, and the cause was a loose screw on the motor bracket--and eventually the motor fell out and hit the floor.
The motor and gear were under a five year warranty, so I only paid for the part (a screw) which cost $175. That is no typo: that is what it cost to put the bracket and motor back in. I couldn't wash clothes for a month, but I managed by washing most things in the sink. Manufacturers don't have to take responsibility for their product anymore because they make you take on that responsibility with expensive, useless warranties and expensive repairs.
Beverly of Strongsville OH (02/03/08)
My husband and I saved up for what we thought was the top of the line washer and dryer. We bought the Kenmore Elite Smartwash quietpac 9 front loader washer and dryer. Well, 3-4 years into using what we thought would last us more than that, we starting having major problems with the washer. It stops midway into the washing cycle and leaves us with no-way to open the door let alone anyway to finish washing and rinsing our clothes. We did not purchase the extended warranty because we didn't think after spending as much as we did that we would have these problems so soon. Hindsight is 20/20 as they say. Anyway a repairman visited us one time and cleaned out a trap in the back and charged us 70 dollars. He told us that if it happened again that we would need a part that costs at the very least 400 dollars. Right now my husband is laid off since sept and I am the only one working. We cannot afford that kind of money nor should we. Something should be done about lemon appliances like they do for cars.
Fran of Englewood Cliffs NJ (01/28/08)
I had a Kenmore Elite front load washer which I loved. I recently noticed that although I would choose cold wash/cold rinse especially for my delicates, the machine would take in first cold, then hot water. Service tech came several times, changed several parts, and still the problem persisted. They finally felt it was not repairable, and since I had the extended warranty, finally agreed and replaced it with the HE3t.
Only problem now is that the machine is doing the same thing. It starts to pull in the cold water first, and then pulls in the hot water. If I shut off the hot water valve, the machine does not work. Has anyone had this problem? When the technician called his tech support for help, they suggested that my water may be too cold. It doesn't make sense. All I know is that I can't wash my sweaters or my blacks in cold water only.
Leia of Davis CA (01/22/08)
We bought a Kenmore Elite Oasis HE in the fall of 2006. The control panel suddenly broke. I called Sears and explained what had happened, and they said it had been over a year and my warranty had expired but convinced me to purchase a new one year warranty for $214. When the Sears repair man got here he took a quick look at the washer and said that I needed a new Interface Board (which he would have to order and would take another 5-7 days)--and that it would cost $148.38 for the part and $132.00 for labor. This cost would be covered by the new warranty that I had just purchased. I asked if this was a common problem because he seemed to know exactly what was wrong with the machine after about 1 minute. He said they have seen it a lot and that there was a defect in the first generation of interface boards that were installed in the Kenmore Oasis HE machines.
I of course then asked if Sears would be covering the cost for me seeing as it was a known defect in their machine. The guy said that Sears would not cover the cost because they had not recalled the machine. He said that it is known to Sears that there are defective first generation interface boards out there that are breaking and they are not recalling those machines simply because they don't want to have to pay for replacing the boards! They want the consumers to instead pay the extra $214 for the extended warranty on top of the $800 that we already paid for the machine--not to mention all of the money I have to spend at the laundromat washing laundry for a family of 5! I think that Sears should replace the defective interface boards (considering that they know about the defect) at no cost to the consumer, and compensate for the laundromat fees $100, plus).
Eulanda of Manalapan NJ (01/12/08)
I bought a Kenmore washer, dryer, and kit. The washer was defective so I scheduled an appointment with their repair center. The repair man named Dennis came out spent several hours on the machine and said that he would have to order a motor, computer sensor and door latch. So I refused, called customer service while he was still present, and he explained to them that the machine was defective and he had no idea how to fix it. the representative took all the info from my sales receipt and ordered another washer and kit to be delivered. When the delivery men came two days later, they had no kit so they couldn't hook up the washer and dryer. They wanted to leave the washer in the middle of the floor, and I refused because it is a brand new house and carpet. We called the customer service line; a rep told me I never purchased a kit so therefore they weren't responsible, even though I had the receipt to prove it. We were back and forth, and he hung up the phone on me, and the drivers just took off with the washer without saying a word. No one told me what to do, who to call, where is my washer; I just sat there with a defective washer.
I called the delivery center and was treated with total disrespect. A woman came on the phone, researched my order and found that the kit was not on the truck as promised. She told me that they would have the driver get a kit and come back later that day--but would call in 20 minutes to give a delivery time. No one called. I called back and was told to reschedule. It was scheduled then for that Sat. morning. I get a call Fri. night and am told they have no kit, but it will come by UPS in 5 days.
I purchased over $2500.00 worth of appliances and was treated so poorly, had such confusion, had to use the laundromat, and missed work dealing with these problems. No one helped me at Sears; I still haven't received the kit or washer as of this date. I want justice for this situation.
Jm of Kensington MD (01/02/08)
My Kenmore Oasis HE washer has been on the blink since Aug. 2007, one month before the warranty was up. I haven't had a working washer for more than 4 weeks out of the last 5 months. The water pump broke, the computer pannel broke and then another computer pannel broke. The water pump was replaced and is broken again 4 months later. I paid a lot for this machine. I can't afford hitting the laundromat with 4 kids!
My laundry is on the 2nd floor. Water has leaked through my Kitchen ceiling in Aug. and now in Jan. I know I need dry wall repair. The other times it was the computer control pannel and shorted wires. I can't pay for laundromats with 4 children. It adds up! They are all teenagers and I am a single parent on a fixed income.
Joe of Staatsburg NY (12/31/07)
We bought a Kenmore front load washing machine.The tub leaked, and the repairman took just about the whole machine apart to fix it. It worked great (I thought) for a while. The warranty ran out, and then my wife was complaining washer was not working correctly. Later on it was sqeaking badly. So,I am mechanically inclined and decided that I will fix this unit. Upon removing the front panel I found a few broken plastic parts which was a pin that held the shock absorber in place that was not connected--and which made my unit work but not work correctly. Since it ran this way it put a lot of pressure on the rear bearing and starting spitting out grease on the inside of the unit; and then the pulley cut into the back of the tub and made a real mess. I feel due to my professional opinion and experiences that the pin was faulty upon repair and can prove it was bad. Sears should replace my unit due to faulty repair and part. Although this unit is out of warranty, and I am out of luck, I just wanted to post my situation about Sears and their repairs.
The damage is that the pin that held the shock absorber for the washer in place should have been replaced with a new one or maybe it was not even connected.The pin was found towards the back of the machine with splattered grease on it and if it was correctly installed grease would have not came in contact with it.
Angela of Mebane NC (12/29/07)
Purchased a Kenmore Oasis Washing Machine 12/28/06. On 12/29/07 the machine stopped working. $800.00 I spent on this machine. It had to be worked on 2 times during the past year. The company will not help us in any way. Our warranty ran out yesterday. How about that. We can purchase an extended warranty for $214.00 (1 year coverage) if we like. The customer service person talked to her boss to try and get us help; that person said no. She herself said that stunk. Please let everyone know about this. It is no telling how much it will cost to get someone to fix it. If someone can help me I would really appreciate it. Happy New Year.
Jennifer of Gwynedd Valley PA (12/29/07)
I purchased a Kenmore a Elite washer in July 2002. I have been through repair after repair. The final problem was Dec. 2007. The inside literally fell apart while cleaning a load of wash. There were sharp pieces of metal and plastic in the washer that ripped and tore the load of wash. Now since my extended warranty that I paid extra for ran out ,I am left to pay for the service call, repair, and I am left to throw out brand new clothes my kids and I wore for Christmas. I was on the phone with Sears and got the run around for an hour and a half. They could have cared less that I had to wait a week for repair, pay for repair and had ruined clothes from their defective product. Their products do not hold up and their customer service stinks!
Buy this product which costs a lot, and you almost have to buy the service agreement, too.
Claudia of Waxahachie TX (12/12/07)
I was told by a salesman at Sears (2001) that in just a few years, everyone would be required to have an HE washing machine. I ended up spending $1400.00 on a Calypso Kenmore Elite washing machine. We have never been happy with it. When we received something in the mail about a law suit, we had recently moved and were totally overwhelmed with other things happening in our life at that time. We were renovating an old house and did not have our files in normal order so I was unable to find the necessary items to be part of that suit.
I will never shop at a Sears store again or purchase any of their products. This is coming from a 30+ year Kenmore consumer--and my mother shopped Sears for years before me. I will tell any and everyone I meet that I cannot recommend their products. I thought after spending this much on a washing machine that I would never need to replace a washing machine again in my life.
My husband and children have done nothing but complain about the lousy job this machine has done. It has ruined more clothes than I care to recall. This situation is nothing short of sickening. I feel like I wasted not only $1400.00 hard earned dollars but hundreds and hundreds of dollars in clothes. Sadly, we couldn't afford to always replace the clothes so we have had to just wear messed up clothes at times. It somehow leaves odd marks on clothes. Sometimes I am able to coat them with chemicals and rewash them--often multiple times. So much for being a WATER SAVER. I have been cheated by Sears/Kenmore.
Margaret of Navarre FL (12/11/07)
I purchased a Kenmore Oasis washer and dryer 7 months ago. Washer will not work. Now it starts by itself. Dryer starts beeping and has come on by itself with all the lights flashing. Just do a search for Kenmore Oasis washer and dryer complaints and you will see this is a bad set
I paid approx. $2000.00 for this set. I am a 62-year-old disabled person. It took 6 appts. to get a Sears tech here to look at the washer. Tech said all this model washers and dryers should be recalled because they are lemons and the replacement parts are the same as original ones and will tear up again. I have an appt. for the dryer the 16th of Dec. Sears treats me like I am senile (because of my age maybe). I have asked them to take this set back as it is still under warranty, and I will purchase a different model set. They will not. Sears knows how bad these are and will not do anything about it. This is not right. I cannot afford to buy another set unless they take this one back.
Kent of Lake In The Hills IL (11/11/07)
We purchased a Kenmore washing machine in 2003. Since we then we've had nothing but problems. The manager has now directed me to call a national customer hot-line.I am so tired of paying for items that break down; there is no accountability. Once again our machine has broken down and is not draining; also the machine's computer is screwed up.
The washer is leaving rust marks, putting dirty water back into the clothes, not draining, clothes sitting in dirty water, and creating mold.
Patricia Quinn of Stoneham MA (11/06/07)
Purchased a Kenmore Elite Calypso washer in 2003. Shortly after delivery, after washing white clothes, washer would leave bleach marks on dark clothing during next wash cycles. Sears repaired valve. Same problem occuring again and Sears now states control panel needs to be replaced at a cost of $500. I recently determined that this washer had a recall and class action suit filed against it but was not included in it. Want this washer repaired or replaced at no further cost to myself. Please help.
Many ruined dark clothes which needed to be discarded.
Jon of Santa Clara UT (11/04/07)
Sears Kenmore front load washing machine Model # 417.42042100 is a piece of junk. It's noisy, when sold as quiet model; has needed numerous repairs, smells of burning rubber. The quotes on repairs exceed value when purchased new; repairs to date are over what a new one costs. It did not last 5 years and has had over 3 service calls and repairs. The dryer that goes with it burns clothes.
Dave of Sturbridge MA (11/03/07)
Purchased a Kenmore HE2t front-loading washer machine in Aug 2007. Within a week after using the washer machine, the clothes that were washed started smelling of mold. We leave the door open, wipe down any wet spots, and run bleach cycles frequently. Our clothes continue to smell of mold after washing. Kenmore says they are aware of the problem and indicated that we have to pay them to buy their tablets (which I have yet to receive from them) that are to be used repeatedly. Worst washer ever made.
We have to endure clothes that smell unclean and moldy. We have to re-wash the clothes which cause excess water and electricity usage at an additional cost, as well as excess wear and tear on our clothes at double the rate since we have to wash/dry twice or more. Some clothes are simply ruined by not getting clean. I want my money back.
Lori of Blue Springs MO (11/02/07)
I have a Kenmore front loader washer that is 3 years old. The bearings are out, and the repairs are $550! This is the second time this machine has been serviced; the first was for the smelly mildew created in the machine. I will never buy Kenmore again. This same day my Kenmore side-by-side refrigerator needed service because the ice-maker broke; this appliance is 22 months old. I have ice, $290 later. What a waste of money. I am only buying Whirlpool from now on.
Joyce of Santa Ana CA (10/09/07)
I bought a Kenmore stacking washer/dryer in December of 2006. It's suppose to be the quiet pack plus, heavy duty model. It makes so much noise and shakes the room when it goes on the spin cycle that you think it's going to fall apart. I had a Sears repairman come out to look at it. He said everything was working the way it is suppose to. He said it made noise because it was on a wooden floor as opposed to cement, and also said to buy rubber foot pads for it. It gets off balance every time I use it, shakes the house and makes so much noise that I can't hear TV. I didn't buy the extended warranty, but I don't think there is anything they can do to fix it. I don't want to put anymore money into a repair call or fixing it. I think it is a manufacture defect. I hate the machine. I want to leave home when I wash clothes. I will never buy another Sears washer again. I feel like setting this one out on the curb with a sign that says junk.
Rick of Roy, WA (04/27/07)
We purchased a Kenmore Elite HE3T washer and dryer two years ago and have had nothing but problems!!!
We have been told all of the following, depending on who you talk to... #1 Too much detergent #2 Not enough detergent #3 Wrong detergent (we only use what Sears recommends) #4 Too much fabric softener (we never used any) #5 Wrong cleaning cycle #6 Should use the sanitary cycle #7 Waters too hard #8 Waters too soft. The list and excuses goes on and on.
The top load, low capacity washer we had for 15 years in this same house, with the same water and soap etc...did a GREAT job of keeping our clothes clean and free of mold smell.
Cindy of West Chester OH (04/25/07)
We purchased a Kenmore series 80 washing machine on 11/30/05. On 3/16/07, we paid $143.78 to have the motor capacitor replaced. On 4/23/07 our smoke alarm went off and there was an overwhelming smell of something burning. It smelled like an electrical fire. So, on 4/25/07, we paid $266.25 to have the motor replaced. We have now paid more in repairs than we did to initiallly buy it. The washer is not even 18 months old and I am only washing for 2 empty nesters. Sears should be held accountable for putting out such an inferior product.
Besides the $410.03 that we have paid in repairs, it was by the grace of God that we were near the washer and could pull the electrical plug before our house burned down. We had to open all of our windows to air out the smoky odor. It just so happened to be the first day that I was babysitting our 4 week old grandson. It could have been tragic.
Diana of Union City CA (04/08/07)
Bought Kenmore 700 Series in October. Had to be replaced 3 times and problem was always the timer. Then for the 4th replacement I decided to buy a Kenmore Elite Total Care Flex and paid more money thinking this will probably the best one. Again it had a factory defect, the motor was broken and it was spinning so loud that it always had a loud explosion as it agitated. My clothes would always be tangled as it spinned.
Pat of Dallas TX (02/25/07)
I purchased the Kenmore front loader washing machine model # 417.42042100 about 4.5 years ago. Recently the machine began making a loud noise when spinning. A service technician told us it was the bearings wearing out than it would soon stop working. It did about 2 weeks later. He said this is a very common fault with this machine. The repair cost is over $600!
Lorenda of Idabel, OK (11/10/06)
I purchased a Kenmore Elite washer in 2006 and I have had Sears Repair services out to my home 2 times.
I have called them again because the screen is flashing "dl" because the door lock is once again not locking. I am very angry that I have paid so much for a washer that I can not use at times. It has now gotten to where it is not washing at all.
I have asked for a new washer but they reported my 90 days was up and that this was not possible. I just feel that for the money I paid for this washer that it should have been in working order.
H. of Layton UT (11/07/06)
I purchased a Kenmore Elite Calypso washing machine. I employed a repair shop to fix the machine when it quit working. I paid $320 to have a new pump and motor installed. The machine still did not work. The machine gave several codes LD, SL, OB etc. I again asked someone to come fix the machine and was told the u-joints were shot and the circuit board was not working. The cost would be prohibitive to fix. I went to Sears and they said it's not our fault. Sears then offered to sell me another washer. I paid about $1800 for the washer and dryer and got about 4 years use.
John of Philadelphia AL (11/07/06)
THe Sears Kenmore Frontload Washer, product number 417.42042100, purchased in Dec. 2001 began making louder and louder noise during the spin cycle, staining light colored clothes with black streaks, and finally just stopped working.
We were told that a Sears repair service contractor would be out to look at the washer and made an appointment for a specific date and time. The appointment was missed for 3 consecutivbe days, without so much as a call. I would call the following day and given some rediculous excuse for the service department not calling to reschedule or appologize. After finally coming on the 4th day, we were told that the washer needed over $1000.00 to be repaired (It cost just over $500 brand new!).
Now, after reading the list of complaints associated with Sears appliances, and basically being told by Sears that I should have purchased the extended warranty program, not only will I never buy an appliance from Sears, I will never buy another item from any store associated with the Sears Holding Group, period.
Leanne of North Pole AK (10/31/06)
I purchased a Kenmore HE4t in Blue. 10 months after buying this machine it starts ripping into my families clothing. Sears replaced it with another machine of the exact same model. Three and a half months later the machine begins to have problems with the barrel part ripping and the machine flooding my floor. A month after they fixed it the machine started to rip my clothing again. They will replace machine Up to the value that I paid but if I chose a less expensive machine they won't credit my card back and will pocket the money.
It has damaged hundreds of dollars worth of clothing. A cheerleading uniform that isn't even ours and soem expensive clothing. They want me to eat the cost of the pedastals that were bought for the washing machine on top of paying interest on a more expensive machine.
Jane of Columbia SC (10/22/06)
In February of 2001, I purchased a Kenmore Elite Calypso washer and dryer set from Sears. This set is made for Sears by Whirlpool. Worked great for a while and then the washer began giving me problems. Several parts have been replaced and the control board. The biggest problem I have is the washer leaving gray marks on my clothes. Sears repair service has been out 3 or 4 times this year. The last time they were out, I was told that I would be given an allowance toward the purchase of a new machine. I am very upset that I purchased an expensive washer which didn't last 5 years and I am getting very little toward the purchase of another.
Steven Uppena of Dickeyville WI (10/09/06)
We purchased a Kenmore Model 417 washer approximately five years ago. Since that time it has required a new pump, and today the service tech informed us the sealed main bearing is bad. That is $516.14 + $68.58 service call.
I am in the new home business, and will not recommend Kenmore.
Elaine of Camp Hill PA (08/24/06)
I have the infamous Kenmore Calypso HE Washer and am aware of the Class Action Settlement on the product. Also,I do not comply with the settlement requirements by approximately two months. I did purchase the extended Master Protection Agreement (through 4/2008) because of the expected uncertainty of the washer's future performance. I have has at least three documented service repairs since December 2004 due to continued failures with the water pump and motor and continued damage being done to clothing articles, I am requesting a full refund and/or replacement with an other than Calypso type washer from Sears.
Jason of Canyon Lake CA (08/03/06)
I have had the worst smell of mold in my house and on my and my family's clothes since around March 06'. It all originates in the washing machine. It is a front loading Kenmore Elite. I have had 6 service calls into Sears under my appliance protection plan. I have had conversations with multilple people representing Sears at various locations, ie repair scheduling, cust. service, etc etc. And still no remedy. For months now I have been told to cut back on the amount of detergent we were using,(it is approved he detergent),we were told to run our washer numerous times with only hot water and bleach. It seems now we are busier washing the washer than clothes.
Technicians have come and changed the boot which was covered in mold, a pump that had no visible mold, and on other visits told me there was nothing they can do, and that i should just keep running the empty hot water and bleach cycle. My last contact was today (August 3 2006) with a gentleman named Donte at Sears National Customer Service. To paraphrase him there is no solution other than for me and my family to deal with it.
So far not much other than frustration. We can't afford to buy new towels and clothes every week. we have thrown away numerous baby clothes, towels, and bedding in an effort to protect my two year old. Some of my and my wife's clothes have been damamged. We have tried numerous methods of diluting bleach and running it with our color clothes so that when we get dressed and go to work, or out to eat, or anything that our clothes don't smell of mold. And as far as my house, who knows. On some days the entire downstairs smells of mold. And everyday the washer, laundry room, and any clothes that have been washed reek of mold.
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