Quick answer
Turn off the washer and unplug it. Check if the washer is level and the floor is stable. Tighten or replace loose or damaged parts like the suspension springs or shock absorbers.
Confirm the symptom
- Washer shakes violently during spin cycle
- Excessive noise during operation
- Washer moves across the floor
- Vibrations felt through the floor or walls
- Unusual thumping or knocking sounds
Tools and prep
- Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)
- Tape measure
- Adjustable wrench
- Rubber mallet
- Level
- Work gloves
- Owner’s manual
- Turn off power at the circuit breaker
- Shut off water supply
Step-by-step troubleshooting
- Check Washer LevelDo: Use a level to check the washer's balance. Adjust the feet by turning them clockwise or counterclockwise.Observe: Washer is uneven or rocking.Means: The washer is not level, causing imbalance during spin.Next: Adjust the feet until the washer is level.
- Inspect Floor StabilityDo: Ensure the floor is solid and even. Place a level on the floor to check for sloping.Observe: Floor is sloped or soft.Means: An unstable floor can cause the washer to shake.Next: Shim or reinforce the floor as needed.
- Check for OverloadingDo: Open the washer and check the load. Remove any excess laundry.Observe: Washer is overloaded with clothes.Means: An overloaded washer can cause imbalance and shaking.Next: Distribute the load evenly or reduce the amount of laundry.
- Tighten Loose PartsDo: Inspect the washer for loose bolts, especially around the drum and suspension system. Tighten any loose components.Observe: Loose bolts or components are found.Means: Loose parts can cause the washer to vibrate excessively.Next: Tighten all loose parts securely.
- Inspect Suspension SystemDo: Check the suspension springs and shock absorbers for damage or wear. Replace any damaged parts.Observe: Springs are stretched, broken, or shock absorbers are leaking.Means: A faulty suspension system cannot absorb vibrations properly.Next: Replace damaged suspension components.
- Check Drum BalanceDo: Visually inspect the drum for any visible damage or misalignment. Ensure the drum rotates smoothly.Observe: Drum is misaligned or damaged.Means: A misaligned or damaged drum can cause shaking during operation.Next: Repair or replace the drum as needed.
- Test with Empty LoadDo: Run the washer with an empty load to see if the shaking persists.Observe: Shaking continues even with no laundry.Means: The issue is likely mechanical and not related to the load.Next: Proceed to inspect internal components.
- Inspect Motor and TransmissionDo: Check the motor and transmission for signs of wear or damage. Listen for unusual noises during operation.Observe: Motor or transmission is making grinding or squealing noises.Means: A failing motor or transmission can cause excessive vibration.Next: Consult a professional for motor or transmission repairs.
Common causes
| Cause | Likelihood | Difficulty | Part often needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washer Not Level An unlevel washer causes the drum to spin unevenly, leading to shaking. | Common | Easy | Feet adjustment |
| Unstable Floor A sloped or soft floor can cause the washer to move or shake during operation. | Sometimes | Easy–Medium | Shims |
| Overloading Too much laundry in the drum creates an imbalance, causing the washer to shake. | Common | Easy | None |
| Loose Bolts or Components Loose parts can cause the washer to vibrate excessively during the spin cycle. | Sometimes | Easy | Bolts and washers |
| Damaged Suspension System Worn or broken suspension springs and shock absorbers cannot absorb vibrations properly. | Common | Medium | Suspension springs, shock absorbers |
| Misaligned or Damaged Drum A misaligned or damaged drum can cause shaking during operation. | Rare | Hard | Drum assembly |
| Failing Motor or Transmission A worn motor or transmission can cause excessive vibration and shaking. | Rare | Hard | Motor, transmission |
| Unbalanced Load Unevenly distributed laundry can cause the washer to shake during the spin cycle. | Common | Easy | None |
Parts matching
Common parts that may be needed to fix a shaking Whirlpool washer include:
- Suspension springs
- Shock absorbers
- Bolts and washers
- Feet adjustment kit
- Drum assembly (rare)
- Motor or transmission (professional repair)
Always refer to your Whirlpool washer’s owner’s manual for specific part numbers and installation instructions.
When to call a professional
- Shaking persists after checking all basic adjustments and parts
- You hear grinding or squealing noises from the motor or transmission
- The drum is visibly misaligned or damaged
- You are unsure about disassembling internal components
- The washer is under warranty and you don’t want to risk voiding it
FAQ
Why is my Whirlpool washer shaking during the spin cycle?
Shaking during the spin cycle is often caused by an unlevel washer, an unbalanced load, or worn suspension components. Check the washer’s level, redistribute the laundry, and inspect the suspension system for damage.
Can overloading cause my washer to shake?
Yes, overloading the washer can create an imbalance during the spin cycle, leading to excessive shaking. Always follow the manufacturer’s load capacity guidelines.
How do I know if the suspension springs are damaged?
Inspect the suspension springs for signs of stretching, breaking, or corrosion. If they appear worn or damaged, they should be replaced to restore proper balance and reduce vibration.
Is it normal for a washer to vibrate slightly during the spin cycle?
Some vibration is normal, but excessive shaking or movement is not. If the washer is vibrating more than usual, it may indicate a problem with the suspension system, balance, or load distribution.
Can I fix a shaking washer myself, or should I call a professional?
Many common issues, such as an unlevel washer or unbalanced load, can be fixed by the homeowner. However, if the problem is related to internal components like the motor or transmission, it’s best to call a professional technician.