Ok, sorry everyone. This was a stupid thread for me to have started. I wasn't going to take anybody's advice and I kind of already knew what we were going to do.
After a lot of research, we knew that Samsung washing machines suck. HOWEVER, the dryer is still perfectly good, and because of space considerations in our 850 square foot condo, we have to have a stacking washer/dryer. Since the washer/dryer came with the condo when we bought it, we have no understanding of their provenance. It seems easier to just start over with a washer.
The research we did suggests that washers, dishwashers, and refrigerators are pretty universally terrible nowadays. Our hope is that the Samsung washer we just bought new will last for about 5 years before it goes out, and then we'll replace both the washer and the dryer with a Whirlpool, GE, or LG. Hopefully the dryer is still going at that point. Apparently dryers last longer and are easier to repair than washers.
SO: To get a brand new bottom of the line Samsung washer that is compatible with the dryer delivered, installed, and the old one hauled away cost us $620 total at Lowe's. We tried the Sears outlet store and called up every other place to see if they had a scratch/dent Samsung, but no dice. In Hawaii, it seemed like a pretty good deal, especially if it actually does last five years. It's worth $620 for me to avoid two weekends' worth of husband cussing and a washing machine taken apart in our 150 square foot bedroom. I'll tell you, I was pretty tempted to buy the five year extended warranty for $120, but the advice here plus my husband's scoffing made us forego it.
If you have facepunches for us on this decision, I'm happy to receive them, but also ask for more advice for such purchases in the future. We've never had to buy this stuff before and are sort of babes in the woods.
Thanks!