Speed Queen top-loader (2018): did it need fixing?

They Fixed It / Speed Queen

2018

Speed Queen

Before: Speed Queen top-loaders with a plain agitator and mechanical controls.
The fix: Redesigned the line to meet federal efficiency rules, with an 'agi-tub' that moves tub and agitator together for a gentler wash.
Then: Consumer Reports gave the $1,000-plus TR7 a 31 out of 100, the worst of the 100-plus washers it had tested. Speed Queen reworked it and brought the old transmission-driven design back as the TC5.

Half took it back

Both designs are sold now.

Your call

More fixes nobody asked for

2011

Netflix

Before: Netflix: DVDs by mail and streaming, one account, one website.
The fix: Split the plans with a price hike, then said DVDs would move to a separate site called Qwikster.
Then: Netflix lost 800,000 US subscribers that quarter. Reed Hastings killed Qwikster on October 10, 2011, about three weeks after announcing it.

Took it back

Qwikster never launched. The price increase stayed.

Your call

2010

Frito-Lay

Before: SunChips in an ordinary plastic chip bag.
The fix: Moved to a 100% compostable bag made from a corn-based plastic.
Then: The bag crinkled at up to 95 decibels. Sales fell about 11%, and a Facebook group called 'Sorry But I Can't Hear You Over This SunChip Bag' took off.

Half took it back

Kept it for Original flavor only; a quieter compostable bag came in 2011.

Your call

2009

PepsiCo (Tropicana)

Before: A juice carton with an orange on it and a straw stuck in the orange.
The fix: The agency Arnell swapped the orange for a close-up of a plain glass of juice.
Then: Shoppers could not find their juice. Unit sales fell 20% between January 1 and February 22, 2009, while Florida's Natural and Minute Maid posted double-digit gains.

Took it back

The orange and straw were back within about two months.

Your call