I've had a basic Speed Queen top loader for almost exactly 9 years. No problems at all to date. Not sold in box stores, only independents for full retail, typically. I think that might have been near the end of old school design/manufacture, but not sure. I recall the mention of steel gears and stainless tub. Basic manual knob controls that work. You can override the nanny water level cutoff. Cleans clothes well. I did briefly glance at their washers online of late and I believe they now source some parts from China but still US produced.
Prior to that I went through two new washers, which each lasted about 5 years, One was a Frigidaire Flair, which was supposed to be quality. Had it fixed 3 times in the first 3 months, then limped on for some years. A washing machine that actually rusted. Prior to all those I had a real Maytag, top loader bought new in 1980. It was still working fine when I left it in a house I sold in 2006.
Prior to that I went through two new washers, which each lasted about 5 years, One was a Frigidaire Flair, which was supposed to be quality. Had it fixed 3 times in the first 3 months, then limped on for some years. A washing machine that actually rusted. Prior to all those I had a real Maytag, top loader bought new in 1980. It was still working fine when I left it in a house I sold in 2006.