[atburrow]

Some parts on a washing machine are definitely designed to break. For example, the couplings [1] on a washing machine are usually made of a plastic material. They are designed to break when introduced to various amounts of stress. Breaking under stress protects the motor from damage (which is a lot more expensive to replace). It's definitely frustrating when the washer breaks down for this reason, but the repair is extremely cheap (< $5 for the actual part, more for labor) if you do it yourself.

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coupling

[woobar]

In my old washer this coupling will routinely break almost each year. After ten years I have mastered the replacement process (removing the case, turning machine upside down, and detaching the motor) in under 15 minutes.

Pro tip: if you decide to DIY, order half a dozen of these [1] couplings in advance.

[1] https://www.amazon.com/3364003-3364002-REPLACEMENT-KITCHENAI...