My parents have had the same appliances for YEARS...I mean...YEARS.....we're talking over 15-20 years (except they did upgrade their refrig).....and they are all working good.
We, on the other hand, have had a refrig for 7 years and it is about to expire. But a new washer (Kenmore) and the day after it was put in, it had to be serviced. (arugh)
I think the newer ones aren't made as good as some of the older ones......hmmmm...do you think they do that on purpose?? So we will have to spend more money??!!!