What does a broken washing machine drum sound like?

Author: Ms. Alberta Ryan  |  Last update: Wednesday, December 17, 2025

If your washer has a loose drum, the chances are that you are hearing loud banging or grinding noises. You may also see some error codes on your washer's display screen. Alternatively, you may feel that your washing machine is malfunctioning or that it has stopped working altogether.

How do I know if my washing machine drum is broken?

Another thing to look out for is direct damage to the drum itself. If you find that any items of your laundry are coming out of the washing machine ripped or torn, this can be because trapped items have damaged the perforations in the tub.

How much does it cost to replace a drum in a washing machine?

Washing machine drum replacement cost falls between $350 and $550. Replacing the inner drum of a washer is one of the more costly repairs. Drums only require replacement if the tub has become damaged or has a manufacturer defect.

How do I know if my washing machine drum bearings have gone?

If your washing machine is being excessively noisy during cycles, or if the drum is moving around more than it should, it means your washing machine's bearings have likely gone and need replacing.

What does a washing machine sound like when the bearings have gone?

Listen for unusual noises

This is the most common way to diagnose faulty washing machine bearings. Start the washing machine and listen for any grinding, rattling or knocking noises during the spin cycle. If you hear any of these noises, it is a good indication that the bearings are faulty.

Washing machine repairs: Strange sounds from your washing machine

How much does it cost to replace a drum bearing on a washing machine?

Washing Machine Bearings Replacement Cost

Expect to pay between $150 and $230 to replace drum bearings, including the cost of labor. Bearings last about 10 years. Call a washer repair contractor near you if it starts making unusual sounds.

What does a bad washing machine motor sound like?

As electric motors wear out, you may notice strange noises coming from the washer during operation: Humming or buzzing sounds. Squeaking or screeching noises. Loud banging or clanking.

Is it worth replacing washing machine drum bearings?

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.

Why is my washer drum loose banging around?

Experiencing a loose washer drum that's making a racket during your wash cycle is certainly not ideal. This issue could be a result of several factors such as worn out suspension springs, a faulty shock absorber, or loose drum bearings.

Can a washing machine drum be fixed?

While DIY methods resolve many washing machine drum issues, there are times it's worth asking for professional help instead. For example: If you're unsure about the cause of the problem or lack the technical knowledge to fix it yourself.

What is the most expensive part to replace on a washing machine?

Drum. Unfortunately, the drum is the most expensive of all the possible washing machine replacement parts. Expect to spend at least $400 on a washing machine drum replacement. Water Inlet Valve.

How easy is it to replace washing machine drum bearings?

Replacing Drum Bearings. Of all repairs that can be done to a washing machine this can be one of the most physically difficult to successfully complete as, more often than not these days it requires a complete stripdown of the machine.

What damages a washing machine drum?

Metal objects such as coins, keys, and screws can damage the inner drum and outer tub of your washing machine.

Why is my washing machine making a loud sound?

The main answer for your question, “why is my washing machine noisy” might include an unbalanced load in a spin cycle, loose drum bearings, a blocked filter or a trapped item such as a coin.

Why do washing machine drums break?

One of the most common issues affecting washing machine drums is unbalanced loads. When clothes inside the drum are unevenly distributed, it can cause the machine to shake violently during the spin cycle. This leads to an unsettling racket – along with posing a risk of damage to other internal components.

How to tell if a washer drum is loose?

If your washer has a loose drum, the chances are that you are hearing loud banging or grinding noises. You may also see some error codes on your washer's display screen. Alternatively, you may feel that your washing machine is malfunctioning or that it has stopped working altogether.

Why is my washing machine drum shaking violently?

The shock absorbers or drum bearings of older or outdated washing machines can become worn out over time, leading to internal imbalance that can cause the washer to shake. Take a look inside the washer and make sure the basket or drum of your top- or front-loading washer is visibly centered in the opening.

How do you stabilize a washing machine drum for moving?

Preventing a washing machine's drum from excessive motion during your move will protect the suspension from breaking. You can do this by securing the drum with shipping bolts or transit bolts. These metal rods are inserted into special slots in the rear of the washer to secure the drum.

How much does it cost to replace the drum in a washing machine?

Drum. Replacing a washer drum costs $200 to $500 or more, depending on the make and model. Specialized models might have pricier drum replacements. Professional installation can add an extra $200 to $400 or more.

Can a washing machine drum go out of balance?

It's most likely the bearings are going out! These crucial components ensure that the drum spins smoothly and without excess vibration. So, when the bearings break down, they can't support the drum properly, leading to an off-balance and noisy cycle.

Is it safe to use washing machine with noisy bearings?

this video demonstrates how dangerous running a Washing Machine with bad bearings can get. this got so bad it damaged the spider and put excessive wear on the motor. but the worst is they can smoke. get hot create sparks and ultimately start a fire.

Why does my washer sound like a drum?

Banging, screeching, and thumping noises during the spin cycle can be annoying — and a little concerning. But if it's not because of an unbalanced load or a machine that's not level, damaged drum bearings might be the cause.

How do you know if your washing machine motor is broken?

If the motor is broken, it's not likely that your washing machine will not start at all—instead, the more likely scenario is that the wash cycle will start, and then fail at some point during it. Another sign of a broken motor is buzzing or whining sounds coming from the machine.

How long should a washing machine last?

Average washing machine lifespan

Well, this figure obviously varies depending on lots of different factors - including brand, model, how you use it, and how well you maintain it. But generally, if you look after your washing machine properly you should it expect it to last anywhere between 7 and 12 years.

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