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.
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.
Replacing the drum and bearings often requires dismantling the entire appliance. Labour costs add up quickly, and if the drum itself is damaged, parts can be expensive. In many cases, replacing the whole washing machine may be more economical.
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.
Technically, yes—but it's not recommended. Running a washing machine with faulty bearings can cause: Increased noise levels, making the machine disruptive. Further damage to the drum and other internal components.
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.
Why is my washing machine shaking? If you've noticed your washer shaking a lot, the problem could be an overloaded tub, improper installation or leveling issues. During spin cycles, shaking can usually be attributed to an unbalanced washer.
Washing Machine Lifespan
The average life of a washing machine ranges from 10 to 13 years, although some brands can manufacture washing machines with an even longer lifespan than the average appliance.
Most Common Washing Machine Faults
Whirlpool top-load washers (often sold under the Kenmore, Maytag, and Amana brands) are widely considered the easiest and cheapest washers to repair. Featuring a highly standardized, traditional mechanical and simple electronic design, nearly all components are easily accessible and replacement parts are inexpensive.
In the UK, a professional washing machine bearing replacement cost typically falls somewhere between £100 and £200. You might be surprised by that figure, especially when you learn the parts themselves only cost about £10 to £20. But this price tag reflects a complex and time-consuming job.
As a general rule, you should repair your washing machine if it is less than 5 to 8 years old and the repair cost is less than 50% of the cost of a new machine. If your machine is older than 10 years or requires back-to-back, costly repairs, replacing it is usually the better investment.
No, you should immediately stop using your washing machine. A loose drum indicates a severe mechanical failure, usually caused by broken bearings, a cracked drum spider, or damaged suspension springs. Running it further risks shattering the outer tub, tearing the door seal, and destroying the motor.
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.
Usage: More frequent use generally leads to faster wear and tear. Load size: Regularly overloading the machine puts extra strain on the bearings. Water quality: Hard water can contribute to bearing corrosion. Maintenance: Proper lubrication and cleaning can extend bearing life.
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.
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.
There are certainly some things to look out for if you think your washing machine needs replacing. Typically washing machines nearing the end tend to make unusual noises or vibrations during a wash, which indicates there may be worn-out bearings or other internal issues. An obvious error to watch out for is leaking.
The Most Common Washer Repair Problems and When To Call A Pro
Speed Queen is the longest-lasting washing machine brand, boasting an industry-leading lifespan of 20 to 25 years. They use commercial-grade metal parts and industrial motors. For heavy use, Miele and LG are also top-tier choices.
Here are the seven most common warning signs that your washing machine needs professional attention, along with practical advice on what to do about each one.
'Removing clothes within 30 minutes (or even sooner) is a good habit to get into, as it helps prevent that stale odour from forming. Leaving damp laundry in the machine for several hours can undo lots of the freshness you've just achieved with detergent and fabric softener, meaning you may need to rewash the load. '
A banging washing machine during the spin cycle is most frequently caused by an unevenly distributed load, worn suspension components, or loose shipping bolts. To isolate the problem, pause the cycle, redistribute the wet clothes evenly, and ensure the machine is sitting perfectly level on the floor.
If your appliance is relatively new, and the cost of bearing replacement is reasonable, it can be a worthwhile investment to restore optimal functionality. On the other hand, if fixing the bearings costs much less than buying a new washer, it's definitely worth considering the repair option.
A bearing that's no longer holding the wheel snugly in place creates unnecessary friction and irregular movement, causing the vehicle to shake sometimes enough for the whole car to vibrate. You might also notice: Uneven vehicle tyre wear.