Parts

I purchased a Whirlpool Duet set and at the time it was about $2800 for the set. They are about 5 years old and my power button failed. I had purchased an extended warranty that had expired about 4 days prior to me identifying the problem.  After researching for a replacement part, talking with 12 different representatives from Whirlpool, I found out they do not make a replacement part (which is a very small plastic part about 1/2" long  which most likely costs about a penny).  Then I learn they quit making them for being "faulty". They now have a redesigned part that replaces both the left and right control board and is very expensive.

One of the customer service representatives quoted me $279.95 which is outragious for one 1/2" long plastic part.  I then spoke with the Parts Division and they quoted my $209.99 plus tax and shipping.  The single small part is only available by purchasing a "kit".  The new part (kit) that replaces part# W10110658 is
part#  W10294708. This kit replaces both the center and the right control boards on that machine and is the only part available per WPL.   I DO NOT NEED THE ENTIRE KIT, I simply need the one small plastic part.

Since Whirlpool has knowledge of the problem why didn't they recall the part or provide an extended warranty? Why wasn't the customer notified.

I currently own 6 Whirlpool appliances but I will never purchase another Whirlpool product!!   I really feel Whirlpool should stand behind their products and offer some sort of discount for replacing their faulty product designs.

My next note will be to the Consumers Protection Agency.