🛠️ The 15-second repair decision
Fix it or toss it? Stop guessing.
You just got a repair quote. Before you approve it, see exactly how long the fix must last to break even — and the actual probability it will.
How the Verdict is Decided
No hidden weights or random numbers. Just two transparent formulas.
1. Breakeven Months
How long the repair must survive for you to get your money back.
Repair Cost / (Replacement Cost / Median Lifespan in months)2. Survival Probability
The actuarial chance your item actually lasts that long, factoring in its current age and your repair confidence.
P(t) = exp(-t / median_lifespan) * confidence3. Verdict Logic
Probability > 65% = FIX | 40% to 65% = BORDERLINE | < 40% = TOSS
Lifespan Benchmarks
The static data backing the survival probability. Medians are estimates based on general usage, not guarantees.
| Item Category | Median Lifespan | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Washing Machine | 10 years | Consumer Reports, 2023 |
| Refrigerator | 12 years | Consumer Reports, 2023 |
| Laptop | 5 years | Manufacturer specs, 2023 |
| Phone | 3 years | Apple/Samsung specs, 2023 |
| TV | 8 years | Consumer Reports, 2023 |
| Car | 12 years | Consumer Reports, 2023 |
| Couch | 10 years | Furniture Industry Council, 2022 |
| Microwave | 9 years | Consumer Reports, 2023 |
| Dishwasher | 10 years | Consumer Reports, 2023 |
| Vacuum | 8 years | Consumer Reports, 2023 |
| Mattress | 8 years | Sleep Foundation, 2023 |
| Dryer | 13 years | Consumer Reports, 2023 |
| Oven | 15 years | Consumer Reports, 2023 |
| Lawnmower | 8 years | Manufacturer specs, 2023 |
| Bicycle | 15 years | Bicycle Manufacturers Assoc, 2022 |
Things will always break. Bookmark this.
Save this tool for the next midnight repair quote. No sign-up, no expiration.