Washer Making Grinding Noise

Quick answer

A washer making a grinding noise is often due to a worn-out belt, loose parts, or debris in the drum. Turn off the washer, check for foreign objects, and inspect the belt and drum components for damage or wear.

Confirm the symptom

• Grinding noise during spin cycle
• Noise gets louder over time
• Noise is metallic or scraping
• Happens only during agitation or spinning

Tools and prep

• Screwdriver Set
• Flashlight
• Socket Wrench Set
• Needle Nose Pliers
• Shop Vacuum
• Infrared Thermometer

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Prep & safety

• Unplug the washer to ensure safety before starting any inspection or repair.
• Turn off the water supply to prevent leaks during the repair process.
• Clear the area around the washer for easy access to components.
• Wear protective gloves and safety goggles to avoid injury.

Step-by-step troubleshooting

1. Inspect the Drum Area
   Do: Look inside the drum for any foreign objects like coins, buttons, or small items that might be caught in the agitator or drum.
   Observe: Any visible objects or signs of damage.
   Means: Foreign objects can cause grinding noises.
   Next: Remove any objects and test the washer again.
2. Check the Belt
   Do: Locate the belt under the washer (usually at the back) and inspect it for cracks, fraying, or looseness.
   Observe: Worn or loose belt.
   Means: A damaged or loose belt can cause grinding noises during operation.
   Next: Replace the belt if it's damaged or tighten it if loose.
3. Examine the Drum Bearings
   Do: Spin the drum manually and listen for grinding or rough movement.
   Observe: Grinding sound or resistance when spinning.
   Means: Worn drum bearings are a common cause of grinding noises.
   Next: Replace the drum bearings if they are faulty.
4. Inspect the Agitator
   Do: Check the agitator for looseness or damage. Remove it if necessary to inspect the components underneath.
   Observe: Loose or damaged agitator parts.
   Means: A loose or damaged agitator can cause noise during operation.
   Next: Tighten or replace the agitator components as needed.
5. Check the Motor Coupling
   Do: Locate the motor coupling and inspect it for cracks or wear.
   Observe: Cracks or wear on the coupling.
   Means: A damaged motor coupling can cause grinding noises during the spin cycle.
   Next: Replace the motor coupling if it's damaged.
6. Look for Loose Parts
   Do: Check all visible components for loose screws, bolts, or parts.
   Observe: Loose or missing hardware.
   Means: Loose parts can vibrate and cause noise during operation.
   Next: Tighten all loose parts securely.
7. Test the Washer
   Do: Plug the washer back in and run a test cycle to see if the noise persists.
   Observe: Noise during the test cycle.
   Means: The noise may have been resolved or may indicate a more serious issue.
   Next: If the noise continues, consider consulting a professional technician.
8. Check the Drum Support Rollers
   Do: Inspect the drum support rollers for wear or damage.
   Observe: Worn or damaged rollers.
   Means: Faulty drum support rollers can cause grinding noises.
   Next: Replace the drum support rollers if they are worn or damaged.

Common causes

Parts you might need

When replacing parts for a washer making a grinding noise, ensure the new parts match the specifications of the old ones.

• Drive Belt: match the length and thickness of the old belt
• Drum Bearings: match the model number and size of the existing bearings
• Agitator Components: match the model and size of the original parts
• Motor Coupling: match the model number and specifications
• Drum Support Rollers: match the size and model number

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Consult the washer's manual for the correct part numbers and specifications to ensure compatibility.

When to call a professional

• The grinding noise persists after checking all components.
• You are unable to locate or access the source of the noise.
• The washer makes loud noises during startup or operation.
• You notice excessive vibration or shaking during the cycle.
• The washer leaks water or fails to spin properly.
• You are unsure about the correct part to replace or how to perform the repair.

FAQ