That's beyond belief
OK, and that was exactly the period of time when Electrolux was suffering from the young-dynamic-manager syndrome. Those models had both motor and bearing problems, depending on the exact unit.
I bet she can win this one, there is enough documentation out there of this problem.
Sears knows of it, again - a polite letter to headquarters will work wonders.
It is such a shame, really - I see her writing the last check and the washer goes "clunk".
Again, these machines are really quite good and reliable...hell, I wouldn't be surprised if this 1999 unit had been held back exactly for this reason and some in-duh-vi-dual decided to sell it. I would definitely raise that point, beginning with the local Sears management.
A quick Google search will turn up lots of info. on this.