When should I replace a pool pump motor instead of repairing it?

Replace the motor if it hums but won’t spin, because that means the start capacitor or windings have failed—a capacitor swap is just a band-aid. Also replace if you hear loud screeching (bad bearings), the breaker trips every time, or water leaks from the motor housing (shaft seal failure). If repair costs more than half the price of a new motor, or the motor is over 7 years old, just swap it for better efficiency and fewer headaches.