I go through at least 1 iron every 2 years!! Don't ask me why they break - I don't think I abuse them but do use them almost every day. I am on my 3rd Rowenta and I think it is on its last legs - the 2 before began leaking and I know one did this after it was dropped. I have used Tefal and liked it because it had lots of steam vents and was easy gliding.
I will be on the look out for a new one very soon.