Fixing a noisy washing machine drum involves identifying the exact sound to pinpoint the cause. The most common remedies range from simply redistributing the laundry or removing a trapped coin, to leveling the machine or replacing worn drum bearings.
A suddenly loud washing machine drum is usually caused by an unbalanced load, a stuck foreign object (like a stray coin or bra wire), failed drum bearings, or worn-out suspension parts.
Replacing washing machine bearings is generally worth it if you do it yourself or if the machine is relatively new. However, if you are paying for professional labor, the cost (often $200 to $400+) frequently exceeds the value of an older machine.
A washing machine that sounds like an airplane (or jet engine) during the spin cycle is typically caused by worn-out tub bearings, a degraded spider arm assembly, or a failing gearcase/transmission.
DIY repair is possible
You can even do that while it is washing, just follow the manual. Check the rubber door seal and drum: that is the place where coins, bra wires and hair grips are most probably stuck. Check the lint filter: some loose items in the machine can work their way down there. Follow the manual.
Your washing machine should make some noise during the spin cycle, but it shouldn't be overwhelming. If you notice a high-pitch or grinding noise, it is best to get a professional to look at it.
A washing machine drum bearing replacement typically costs between $𝟏𝟓𝟎 and $𝟑𝟎𝟎 total for a professional repair. While the replacement bearings themselves are affordable, labor is expensive as this is a complex job.
When a washing machine's bearings fail, the drum loses its smooth rotation, resulting in distinct, loud mechanical noises.
Whether to fix a 7-year-old washing machine depends on the repair cost vs. the "50% rule." Generally, if the repair costs more than half the price of a new machine, replacement is smarter. For a 7-year-old unit, you should only proceed if the repair is under $150 to $200.
Replacing washing machine bearings is not considered an easy DIY job. It is a major, time-consuming repair that requires a complete teardown of the machine, specialized tools, and moderate-to-advanced mechanical skills. For most people, it takes 4 to 8 hours to complete.
The most expensive washing machine parts to replace are usually the drum and bearings, followed closely by the motor and control board. While some repairs are worth doing, in many cases replacement is the better long-term investment—especially if your machine is older and less efficient.
If you have an older washer and hear loud banging or clanging during the spin cycle, worn-out shock absorbers or drum bearings could be to blame. This can cause the drum or basket to become off-balance. Take a look to see if the drum appears centered in the washer opening.
Washing machines typically last between 10 and 13 years, though front-load models average around 11 years and top-load models can reach 14 years. This lifespan varies significantly based on usage, maintenance, and the specific type of machine.
It is important to note that the potential consequences of bearing failure extend beyond just noise and vibration. This excessive vibration can stress and even damage other crucial components like the drum, shaft and tub, leading to costly repairs further down the line.
Humming: A humming noise while driving can be caused by several issues, but a wheel bearing or CV joint is one of the more likely (and problematic) issues. Squealing & Growling: The classic sounds of a bad wheel bearing are cyclic chirping, squealing, and growling noises.
It is not safe. Using a washing machine with failing bearings causes the drum to wobble, which risks tearing clothing, destroying the tub, snapping the drum spider, or causing the machine to violently shake itself apart. Continuing to run it can also damage the motor.
The main indicator of worn bearings is if your drum is making unpleasant noises while turning. You can test this by placing your hand inside the tub and giving it a spin for yourself. If this part is faulty, the washing machine bearings noise will sound like a sort of grinding or squealing.
The lifespan of the average washing machine is usually 10 to 15 years. If your appliance is nearing this age, buying a new one it instead of replacing the drum would be more economical.
Replacing washing machine bearings is generally worth it if you do it yourself or if the machine is relatively new. However, if you are paying for professional labor, the cost (often $200 to $400+) frequently exceeds the value of an older machine.
To check if your washing machine bearings are bad, listen for a loud roaring or grinding noise during the spin cycle, and feel if the inner drum is loose or wobbles when you push it.
For a 7-year-old washing machine, a repair is usually worth it if the repair cost is less than half the price of a new machine and your washer is generally in good shape. However, if the fix involves a major component like the motor or tub bearing, replacing it is often the more cost-effective choice.
When a washing machine's bearings fail, the drum loses its smooth rotation, resulting in distinct, loud mechanical noises.
A front-load washer making a loud, roaring, or screeching noise during the spin cycle is usually caused by worn-out tub bearings, a failing drive belt/pulley, or loose internal debris.