A GE dishwasher typically becomes a replace candidate when repair costs climb late in its life or when leaks introduce property-damage risk. With an average expected life around 10 years, repairs below the threshold can be sensible for pumps, latches, and heating elements-especially if the machine is still cleaning well and the racks/tub are intact.
If the unit is past mid-life and the diagnosis includes control electronics plus mechanical parts, replacement may reduce uncertainty and prevent repeat service charges. Also weigh noise and efficiency: newer models can be quieter and use less water, which may tilt the decision if your current unit is old and expensive to operate.
The price used here reflects a typical mid-market dishwasher listing at a major home-improvement retailer; promotions can materially change the replacement baseline.