Washer Not Agitating Properly (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

Check the water level and temperature, ensure the load is balanced, and inspect the agitator for obstructions. If the issue persists, test the motor coupling and transmission.

Confirm the symptom

Washer fills with water but does not agitate during the wash cycle
You hear a humming noise but no movement from the agitator
The washer spins during the spin cycle but does not agitate during washing

Tools and prep

Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
Multimeter (for testing electrical components)
Work gloves
Flashlight
Bucket (for draining water if needed)
Turn off the power to the washer at the circuit breaker
Turn off the water supply to the washer

Step-by-step troubleshooting

Check Water Level and Temperature
Do: Ensure the washer has filled completely with water and that the temperature is correct.
Observe: Water level is low or temperature is incorrect.
Means: Inadequate water can prevent the washer from starting the agitation cycle.
Next: Wait for the washer to fill completely and try again.
Balance the Load
Do: Remove the laundry and redistribute it evenly in the drum.
Observe: The load is unbalanced or too heavy.
Means: An unbalanced load can prevent proper agitation.
Next: Redistribute the load and restart the cycle.
Inspect the Agitator
Do: Check the agitator for any obstructions or debris.
Observe: Debris or foreign objects are blocking the agitator.
Means: Obstructions can prevent the agitator from moving properly.
Next: Remove the obstructions and try running the cycle again.
Test the Motor Coupling
Do: Remove the washer's rear panel and inspect the motor coupling for damage or wear.
Observe: The motor coupling is cracked or broken.
Means: A damaged motor coupling can prevent the motor from transferring power to the agitator.
Next: Replace the motor coupling if it is damaged.
Check the Transmission
Do: Inspect the transmission for signs of wear or damage.
Observe: The transmission is worn or damaged.
Means: A faulty transmission can prevent the agitator from moving properly.
Next: Replace the transmission if it is damaged.
Test the Motor
Do: Use a multimeter to test the motor for continuity and proper operation.
Observe: The motor does not have continuity or is not working properly.
Means: A faulty motor can prevent the agitator from moving.
Next: Replace the motor if it is faulty.
Inspect the Lid Switch
Do: Check the lid switch to ensure it is functioning properly.
Observe: The lid switch is not making proper contact.
Means: A faulty lid switch can prevent the washer from starting the agitation cycle.
Next: Replace the lid switch if it is faulty.

Common causes

Cause	Likelihood	Difficulty	Part often needed
Low Water Level The washer may not start the agitation cycle if it hasn't filled with enough water.	Common	Easy	None
Unbalanced Load An unbalanced load can prevent the washer from agitating properly.	Common	Easy	None
Obstructed Agitator Debris or foreign objects can block the agitator from moving properly.	Sometimes	Easy	None
Faulty Motor Coupling A damaged motor coupling can prevent the motor from transferring power to the agitator.	Sometimes	Medium	Motor Coupling
Worn Transmission A worn or damaged transmission can prevent the agitator from moving properly.	Sometimes	Hard	Transmission
Faulty Motor A faulty motor can prevent the agitator from moving.	Rare	Hard	Motor
Faulty Lid Switch A faulty lid switch can prevent the washer from starting the agitation cycle.	Rare	Medium	Lid Switch

Parts matching

Common parts needed to fix a washer not agitating properly include:

Motor Coupling
Transmission
Motor
Lid Switch

Always match the part to your washer's make and model for compatibility.

When to call a professional

If the washer still does not agitate after checking all the common causes
If you are not comfortable working with electrical components or disassembling the washer
If the problem involves replacing the transmission or motor, which can be complex and require special tools

FAQ

Can I run the washer without the agitator?

Yes, but the washer will not clean the clothes effectively. The agitator is essential for proper cleaning.

How often should I clean the agitator?

Clean the agitator every few months to prevent buildup of debris and ensure proper operation.

Can a faulty water pump cause agitation issues?

No, the water pump is responsible for draining water, not for agitation. Agitation issues are usually related to the motor, transmission, or agitator itself.

Is it worth repairing an old washer that won't agitate?

It depends on the cost of the repair and the age of the washer. If the repair is minor and the washer is relatively new, it may be worth fixing. However, if the washer is old and the repair is expensive, it may be more cost-effective to replace it.