The entire top deck (that top of the washing machine where the lid fits into when closed) has been slowly rusting for several years. We purchased this unit November, 2011. I contacted the company and it was evident from talking to the service representative that he knew of the problem but that he had "his marching orders" not to respond to my complaint in an appropriate (read: warranty replacement) manner.

The rust is now getting bad enough that the next thing that will happen will be bits of rust staining our laundry.
We will be either (1) replacing the deck and doing it out of our own pocket or (2) replacing the entire machine based on which makes the most sense financially.

Sears is responsible for this product and this problem even though we are out of warranty.