I've replaced probably 5 or 6 dead Linksys routers, or various ages and models within the last 12 months with ASUS ones.
I've had TWO dead ASUS routers, both WL-500W's, both seemed to have failed from the same issue..... The wireless card died.
I was able to revive the one, put DD-WRT on it, and it works as a normal (non-wireless) router.
That is the only model I've had ANY deaths with. The biggest seller for me has been the WL-520GU, which has been PERFECT, and I have a LOT of them out there. They are also readily DD-WRT flashable.
The RT-N11 is also fantastic, offers N-speed, but is not currently supported by DD-WRT at this time due to its chipset. Not an issue if you just plan on using the (VERY easy to use) stock ASUS firmware.