What does it sound like when bearings go on the washing machine?

Author: Wilma Walter DVM  |  Last update: Wednesday, January 21, 2026

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.

How do I know if washing machine bearings have gone?

Determining whether your washing machine bearings have gone requires attention to certain indicators. Unusual noises, such as a loud rumbling or grinding during the spin cycle, are often telltale signs. Excessive vibrations and a drum that feels loose when manually turned can also signal bearing issues.

How to tell if a washing machine drum is broken?

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 washer making a loud noise during the wash cycle?

The most common cause of a washer making a loud noise during the agitation cycle is a worn-out drum bearing or broken drive pulley. These defects usually cause a grinding or rumbling sound when the drum spins.

What does a bad washer bearing sound like?

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.

How to Check to see if your Washing machine bearings are gone.

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

Replacing drum bearings on a washing machine costs $100 to $250 on average. Replacement of the washer outer-tub assembly and bearings costs $600 to $800+ depending on the extent of the damages. Washer bearings support the tub to make it spin smoothly.

How can you tell if your washing machine is broken?

Signs a Washing Machine Needs to be Fixed
  1. There's Leftover Water in the Drum. Typically, when your washing machine has completed a laundry load, the water in the drum should be gone entirely. ...
  2. Your Clothes Aren't Washing Completely. ...
  3. It's Extremely Loud When Running.

What does a broken washing machine drum sound like?

The main indicator of worn bearings is if your washing machine drum is making a grinding noise while turning. You can test this by placing your hand inside the tub, giving it a spin for yourself and listening out for any grinding noises.

Can you use a washing machine with broken 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.

What is one of the first signs of bearing failure?

A sure sign that your bearing has failed is vibration. If the raceway surface of the bearing becomes damaged by abrasion, the rolling elements (the balls or rollers) will bounce around on the raceway surface during operation, causing high levels of vibration.

What noise does a bad bearing make?

A bad wheel bearing can produce a growling, rumbling, grinding, or squealing noise that increases with speed. Other signs of wheel bearing failure include vibration, pulsation, and abnormal tire wear. It's never a good idea to drive with a bad wheel bearing because you could end up losing a wheel as you're driving.

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.

How hard is it to replace bearings in a washing machine?

While the parts in question are tucked away in the heart of your washer, they're really not that hard to access and replace. For a fraction of what it'd cost to buy a new washer, you can replace your washing machine's bearings yourself. In this guide and the companion video, we'll be walking you through the process.

How do I know when my bearings are bad?

A humming, rumbling or growling noise that increases with acceleration or as the vehicle turns. A loud constant whining or grinding noise when the vehicle is in motion. Clunking noises when driving over uneven road surfaces.

What noise does a washing machine make when the bearings are going?

If your washing machine makes a loud rumbling or repetitive banging sound, which is particularly bad on a spin cycle, then it is most likely due to loose or worn out drum bearings. It is best to consult an expert on this particular issue, rather than attempt a DIY fix.

What does a broken washing machine belt sound like?

There will be a few telltale signs when the drive belt in your washer starts to fail, the most annoying of which is the screeching or squealing sound it will make.

How much does it cost to replace the 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 bearing is broken?

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.

How much does it cost to fix a broken washing machine?

Average Cost of Washing Machine Repair

General Issue Diagnosis: £50 - £80. Replacing the Drum: £150 - £250. Replacing the Motor: £100 - £200.

What usually fails on a washing machine?

A broken motor coupler, failed lid switch or bad timer could also prevent this type of washer from spinning. On top-load, vertical modular washers (washers whose lid is always locked during the entire wash cycle), a failed shifter assembly or worn drive belt can prevent the washer from spinning the wash load.

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.

Is it worth repairing a 7 year old washing machine?

Factors to Consider

If you spent $650 on your washer seven years ago and you're doing seven loads per week (a lot of wear and tear), a new washer purchase makes sense. But if the machine is 3 years old and you spent $1,000 for it, a repair may be the better financial choice.

What causes washing machine bearings to go?

What causes washing machine bearings to wear? Simple wear and tear. All washers, whether we're talking about front or top loaders, have two bearings that will degrade with use. Water will eventually begin to seep through seals around the metal bearings, causing them to rust over time.

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