Whether it is worth fixing a 17 year old dryer depends on repair cost, type, and overall condition, but generally major repairs are not economical at this age. The average dryer lifespan is 10 to 13 years, so at 17 years you have exceeded design life by 4 to 7 years and other critical components like motor, control board, drum rollers, belt, and heating system are near end of life and likely to fail soon after one fix. The industry 50 percent rule applies: if repair cost exceeds 50 percent of replacement cost, replace it. A new basic dryer costs 600 to 1,000 dollars and high-efficiency models 900 to 1,500 dollars with much better energy efficiency, moisture sensors, and safety features like vent blockage detection. Minor repairs can be worthwhile if you are handy: thermal fuse for 90 to 150 dollars, door switch for 80 to 140 dollars, drum belt for 120 to 200 dollars, rollers for 150 to 250 dollars, or gas valve coils for 120 to 200 dollars can extend life a year or two. However, major repairs like control board for 250 to 500 dollars, motor for 250 to 450 dollars, heating element assembly for 180 to 350 dollars plus labor, or gas valve assembly for 300 to 500 dollars are not sensible. Also consider safety: old dryers may have deteriorated wiring, rust, and outdated safety sensors, and parts may be discontinued. If you have had two repairs in the last year, replacement is smarter.
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