Maytag Washer Making Loud Noise When Spinning (Troubleshooting Guide)

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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

A Maytag washer making loud noise when spinning may have unbalanced laundry, a loose part, or a worn-out drum bearing. First, check for uneven loads and redistribute them. If the noise continues, turn off the washer and inspect for loose components or worn parts.

Confirm the symptom

Noise occurs only during the spin cycle
Sound is loud and possibly metallic or grinding
Washer vibrates excessively during spinning

Tools and prep

Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
Adjustable wrench
Flashlight
Work gloves
Plastic putty knife
Owner's manual
Turn off the washer and unplug it before starting any inspection or repair

Step-by-step troubleshooting

Check Laundry Load
Do: Open the washer lid and inspect the load.
Observe: Is the laundry evenly distributed?
Means: An uneven load can cause loud noises and vibrations during spinning.
Next: Redistribute the laundry evenly and restart the washer.
Inspect for Foreign Objects
Do: Check the drum and surrounding areas for any foreign objects.
Observe: Are there any items that might be causing the noise?
Means: Foreign objects can get caught in the drum and cause loud noises.
Next: Remove any foreign objects and restart the washer.
Check for Loose Parts
Do: Inspect the washer for any loose parts or hardware.
Observe: Are there any parts that appear loose or damaged?
Means: Loose parts can vibrate and create loud noises during the spin cycle.
Next: Tighten any loose parts and restart the washer.
Examine Drum Bearings
Do: Listen closely to the noise and determine if it is coming from the drum area.
Observe: Is the noise a grinding or metallic sound?
Means: A worn-out drum bearing can cause loud noises during spinning.
Next: If the drum bearing is worn, it will need to be replaced by a professional technician.
Check Suspension System
Do: Inspect the suspension system for any signs of wear or damage.
Observe: Are the suspension components worn or broken?
Means: A damaged suspension system can cause excessive vibration and noise.
Next: Replace any worn or damaged suspension components.
Inspect Motor and Pulley
Do: Check the motor and pulley for any signs of wear or damage.
Observe: Is the motor or pulley making unusual noises?
Means: A faulty motor or pulley can cause loud noises during the spin cycle.
Next: If the motor or pulley is faulty, it will need to be replaced.
Test with an Empty Load
Do: Run the washer with an empty load to see if the noise persists.
Observe: Does the noise still occur without any laundry?
Means: If the noise persists, the issue is likely with the washer's internal components.
Next: If the noise persists, contact a professional technician for further assistance.

Common causes

Cause	Likelihood	Difficulty	Part often needed
Unbalanced Laundry Load Uneven distribution of laundry can cause the washer to vibrate and make loud noises during the spin cycle.	Common	Easy	None
Loose or Damaged Parts Loose or damaged parts can vibrate and create loud noises during the spin cycle.	Sometimes	Easy–Medium	Screws, hardware
Worn Drum Bearings Worn drum bearings can cause a grinding or metallic noise during the spin cycle.	Sometimes	Hard	Drum bearings
Damaged Suspension System A damaged suspension system can cause excessive vibration and noise.	Sometimes	Medium	Suspension components
Faulty Motor or Pulley A faulty motor or pulley can cause loud noises during the spin cycle.	Rare	Hard	Motor, pulley
Foreign Objects in the Drum Foreign objects can get caught in the drum and cause loud noises.	Sometimes	Easy	None

Parts matching

If you need to replace any parts, match these common issues with the right components:

Unbalanced Load – No parts needed, just redistribute laundry
Loose Parts – Replacement screws or hardware
Worn Drum Bearings – Drum bearing kit
Damaged Suspension System – Suspension components
Faulty Motor or Pulley – Motor or pulley assembly

Always refer to your owner's manual for specific part numbers and installation instructions.

When to call a professional

The noise persists after checking and redistributing the laundry load
You identify a worn drum bearing or damaged suspension system
You are unsure about the cause or how to replace internal components
The noise is accompanied by a burning smell or unusual vibrations
The washer stops working or shows error codes after the noise occurs

FAQ

Can I fix a loud noise during the spin cycle myself?

Yes, if the issue is an unbalanced load or loose parts. For internal components like drum bearings or motor issues, it's best to call a professional technician.

Why is my Maytag washer making a grinding noise when spinning?

A grinding noise is often caused by worn drum bearings. This requires professional repair or replacement.

How can I prevent loud noises during the spin cycle?

Ensure laundry is evenly distributed, avoid overloading the washer, and regularly inspect for loose parts or foreign objects.

What should I do if the noise continues after checking everything?

If the noise persists after checking all possible causes, contact a professional technician for further diagnosis and repair.