I have the Samsung VRT front loaders. They are maybe 4 years old, tops. I have had the dryer repaired once and the washer repaired once (this week actually, $381). I know they say nothing is built to last anymore, but it's ridiculous.

My repair guy (HH gregg) said that all of them have the same issues, that no brand is really any better than the other. He did say that all modern appliances have electronic boards and that his best advice is to use surge protectors on EVERY appliance, inc washers and dryers.