Maytag Washer Drum Shaking (Troubleshooting Guide)

On this page

Quick answer
Confirm the symptom
Tools and prep
Step-by-step troubleshooting
Common causes table
Parts matching
When to call a pro
FAQ
Related guides

Quick answer

To fix a Maytag washer drum shaking, first ensure the load is balanced and the washer is level. If shaking persists, check for worn drum bearings or a damaged suspension system. Turn off power before inspecting internal parts.

Confirm the symptom

Drum shakes violently during spin cycle
Noise increases when load is uneven
Washer vibrates excessively, even on empty

Tools and prep

Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
Adjustable wrench
Towel or mat for leveling
Flashlight
Owner's manual
Work gloves
Turn off power at the circuit breaker

Step-by-step troubleshooting

Check Load Balance
Do: Pause the washer and redistribute clothes evenly.
Observe: Drum shaking reduces or stops.
Means: Load imbalance was the issue.
Next: Continue cycle.
Level the Washer
Do: Use a level tool to check and adjust the feet.
Observe: Washer sits flat with no rocking.
Means: Uneven floor caused vibration.
Next: Test with a small load.
Inspect Suspension System
Do: Look for torn or worn shock absorbers or springs.
Observe: Visible damage or excessive wear.
Means: Suspension parts need replacement.
Next: Replace damaged parts.
Check Drum Bearings
Do: Spin the drum manually for roughness or noise.
Observe: Grinding sound or resistance.
Means: Worn bearings require replacement.
Next: Replace drum bearings.
Verify Belt Tension
Do: Inspect belt for looseness or wear.
Observe: Belt is loose or shows cracks.
Means: Tension or replacement needed.
Next: Adjust or replace belt.
Test with Empty Drum
Do: Run a spin cycle with no clothes.
Observe: Shaking still occurs.
Means: Internal mechanical issue.
Next: Check for motor or drum damage.

Common causes

Cause	Likelihood	Difficulty	Part often needed
Unbalanced Load Clothes cluster unevenly during spin.	Common	Easy	None
Uneven Floor Washer rocks, causing vibration.	Common	Easy	None
Worn Suspension Parts Shock absorbers or springs lose tension.	Sometimes	Medium	Suspension kit
Damaged Drum Bearings Bearings wear out from use and water exposure.	Sometimes	Hard	Drum bearing kit
Loose or Worn Belt Belt slips, causing erratic drum movement.	Sometimes	Medium	Drive belt
Motor or Drum Misalignment Internal components shift over time.	Rare	Hard	Professional repair

Parts matching

Common parts for Maytag washer drum shaking issues:

Suspension shock absorber kit
Drum bearing replacement kit
Drive belt
Washer leveling feet
Spring assembly for suspension

Check your model number in the manual for exact part compatibility.

When to call a professional

Shaking persists after replacing all accessible parts
You hear loud grinding or metal-on-metal noises
Drum wobbles even when empty
Water leaks from the drum area while shaking
You're unsure about disassembling internal components

FAQ

Can I fix a shaking drum without tools?

Yes, redistributing the load and leveling the washer often resolves the issue without tools.

How do I know if drum bearings are bad?

Listen for grinding noises or feel resistance when spinning the drum manually.

Is it worth replacing drum bearings myself?

Replacing bearings is complex; consider a professional if you're not confident.

Why does my washer shake only during high-speed spin?

Unbalanced load or worn suspension parts are common causes during high-speed cycles.

Can a loose belt cause drum shaking?

Yes, a loose or worn belt can lead to uneven drum movement and shaking.