If your washing machine breaks down within 6 months of buying it, the law assumes the fault was already there — the retailer (not the manufacturer) has to prove otherwise, and you're entitled to a free repair or replacement first, then a refund if that fails.
You're outside the 6-month window but still within the 6-year Consumer Rights Act long-stop. You can ask the retailer for a repair or replacement, but you'll need to show the fault isn't down to wear and tear or misuse — a common, well-documented fault with that model helps your case.
Your statutory rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 are against the retailer you bought from, not the manufacturer — even if the manufacturer's warranty has expired, your consumer rights against the retailer can still apply.
If you paid any part on a credit card and the item cost more than £100, Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act makes the card provider equally liable — worth claiming through them too if the retailer is unresponsive or has gone out of business.
Yes if it's a manufacturing defect. It's not covered if it's caused by installation, misuse (overloading), or normal wear on a part with a known shorter lifespan — the retailer can push back on those grounds.
| Time since purchase | What you can ask for |
|---|---|
| 0–30 days | Full refund |
| 31 days–6 months | Free repair or replacement, then refund |
| 6 months–6 years | Same, but you show the fault is inherent |