6-8 yrs as a lifespan for the front loaders seems right. The newest Frigidaire front loader we have lasted just about 6 til the bearing went recently. Our local appliance store sells all Frigidaire. I'm trying to decide whether or not to go with another washer from that store or shop farther. For now I'm going to the laundromat where there are nice, big, New front loaders and better water than we have here.