Kenmore Washer Making Noise When Agitating

Quick answer

A Kenmore washer making noise when agitating is often due to a worn transmission or loose parts. Turn off power, check for loose components, and replace worn parts like the transmission or coupling if needed.

Confirm the symptom

• Noise occurs only during agitation cycle
• Sound is loud and grinding or thumping
• Washer works otherwise but is noisy during agitation

Tools and prep

• Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
• Socket set and wrenches
• Flashlight
• Work gloves
• Owner’s manual for washer model
• Plumber’s tape (if reconnecting hoses)
• Turn off power at circuit breaker
• Shut off water supply

Step-by-step troubleshooting

1. Turn Off Power and Water
   Do: Shut off the washer’s power at the circuit breaker and turn off the water supply valves.
   Observe: Washer stops running and water doesn’t flow.
   Means: Safe to work on washer without risk of injury.
   Next: Inspect for loose parts
2. Inspect for Loose Parts
   Do: Check the outer tub, motor, and transmission for loose bolts or components.
   Observe: Find any bolts that are loose or missing.
   Means: Loose hardware can cause noise during agitation.
   Next: Tighten or replace loose parts
3. Tighten or Replace Loose Parts
   Do: Tighten any loose bolts with a wrench or screwdriver. Replace missing or damaged parts.
   Observe: Parts are secure and no wobbling occurs.
   Means: Resolves noise from loose components.
   Next: Test washer after tightening
4. Test Washer After Tightening
   Do: Restore power and water, then run a short agitation cycle.
   Observe: Noise is reduced or eliminated.
   Means: Issue was likely loose hardware.
   Next: Check for worn transmission
5. Check for Worn Transmission
   Do: Listen closely during agitation for grinding or thumping sounds. If noise persists, the transmission may be worn.
   Observe: Noise continues despite tightened parts.
   Means: Transmission is likely the cause.
   Next: Replace transmission
6. Replace Transmission
   Do: Remove the old transmission using a socket set and install the new one following the manual’s instructions.
   Observe: Washer agitates quietly after replacement.
   Means: Transmission was the source of the noise.
   Next: Final test and reassembly
7. Final Test and Reassembly
   Do: Reassemble the washer, restore power, and run a full cycle to confirm the fix.
   Observe: Washer operates smoothly and quietly.
   Means: Repair is complete and successful.
   Next: Monitor for recurring issues

Common causes

Parts matching

Common parts needed for a noisy Kenmore washer during agitation include:

• Transmission for your washer model
• Coupling between motor and transmission
• Motor assembly with bearings
• Replacement bolts and washers
• Lid switch assembly

Use your washer’s model number to order the correct parts from a trusted supplier like Sears PartsDirect or Amazon.

When to call a professional

• Noise persists after replacing the transmission and coupling
• You’re unsure about disassembling the washer’s internal components
• The washer leaks water or doesn’t spin properly after repairs
• You don’t have the tools or confidence to complete the repair safely
• The washer is under warranty and you don’t want to risk voiding it

FAQ

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