Need a washing machine repair... how do I go about this?

[PourquoiTuGachesTaVie]

This is probably a stupid question but I've never had to get anything fixed outside of the warranty before. How do I do it in a way that will minimise my chances of getting ripped off and later seeing the tradesman on Rogue Traders?

My washing machine is out of warranty and I think the bearing has gone on the drum (making a loud knocking noise when spinning and it's getting worse).

I could go to the manufacturer for a repair, but I'm wondering if I could get someone else to fix it cheaper?

Problem is I don't know what to ask? If I start with the yellow pages how do I choose who to call? Do I get three quotes? (Quotes for what? the repair itself? the call out charge?).

I don't exactly know anyone who could recommend someone they have previously used.

Sounds like the bearings have gone. ( don't mention this when asking for a quote) There are lots of places out there . I'd look for the nearest place that sells refurbished washing machines, fridges etc.as they nearly always offer a repair service and will undoubtedly be cheaper than the manufacturers That way if the work is not satisfactory you'll be able to contact them easily. Most tradesmen are not rogue traders.

if the bearings are worn out, it may not be economic to repair.

It is quite difficult to find a good appliance repairer, because modern appliances are so reliable that you might go 20 years before needing one. A recommendation from a friend or neighbour is a good start.

Look for a local independent, with a geographic telephone number with a local code, and an address that you could actually go and look at.

Avoid 08** numbers because they are likely to be national referral agencies that will sell your order to anyone who pays them. Even if the advert says "Berkhamstead Appliance Repairs" they probably also advertise as "Brighton Appliance Repairs" and "Birmingham Appliance Repairs." This is a bad sign.

Agree with Piglet, never phone 0800 for anything.
My machine is an AEG, got it off freecycle; it's at least 27 years old and hasn't let me down in nearly 3 years.
My last machine was a Hoover and just 4 years old , the repair man said it would cost upwards of £100 to replace the bearings and said I'd be better off getting another machine.
Yes, try a place with actual premises.
Also if the machine is not very old and something like a Miele or other top brand I would get a quote. Don't bother getting lots of quotes or you'll end up paying several call out charges.
Good luck.

Thank you for the advice, very useful.

It's a Panasonic and only 2 and a half years old so I had hoped to get a good many more years use out of it!

Bosch are super.

My machine was making a terrible noise when spinning a few weeks ago. Kids and I diagnosed it through dr google! There was a bra wire stuck with just a tiny smidgen showing in the drum. DD found it. DS trapped it with pliers and all three if us pulled it out like the enormous turnip!! Result!!

Had that happen a few times. Use a little net bag now, pop all my bras in that, also good for tights.