Amana Washing Machine: agitator not functioning properly

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Amana washing machine agitator not functioning properly? If the central spindle in your washer drum isn't moving or is moving weakly, it can lead to improper agitation and cleaning of your clothes. This issue may occur even when the washer fills and spins normally, indicating potential problems that need addressing.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Amana Models

Amana top-load washers commonly exhibit agitator issues tied to lid switch and agitator dogs; some models detect imbalance and delay agitation if load distribution is poor.

Possible Causes

Faulty Lid Switch

How to Identify: Washer fills but agitator doesnâ€™t start; no clicking from lid switch when lid closes; test continuity with multimeter.

Part: Lid switch

Worn or Broken Agitator Dogs (Directional Cogs)

How to Identify: Agitator spins freely by hand on shaft or moves weakly/only one direction; grinding noises reported during cycle.

Part: Agitator dogs/cogs

Damaged Agitator or Splines

How to Identify: Visual cracks or breaks in agitator; splines worn so agitator turns freely with no resistance by hand. (PartSelect

Part: Agitator assembly

Motor Coupling Failure

How to Identify: Washer fills, motor hums, but no agitation or spin; plastic/rubber coupling pieces may be broken. (PartSelect

Part: Motor coupling

Drive Belt Issues

How to Identify: Agitator doesnâ€™t turn and belt may be visibly worn, broken, or off pulleys; may hear belt squeal. (PartSelect

Part: Drive belt

Transmission or Motor Fault

How to Identify: Agitator does not oscillate despite correct belt/coupling; unusual noises from transmission/motor; advanced diagnosis required. (PartSelect

Part: Transmission or motor

DIY Solutions

Test and Replace Faulty Lid Switch

Moderate 30-60 minutes

Tools Needed: screwdrivers, multimeter

Unplug washer and move to access control area.
Locate lid switch and test for continuity when lid closed using multimeter.
If faulty, disconnect and install replacement lid switch.
Reassemble and test washer agitation.

⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before servicing.

Inspect & Replace Agitator Dogs

Moderate 45-90 minutes

Tools Needed: socket set, screwdrivers, agitator removal tool

Unplug washer and remove agitator cap or top.
Remove agitator bolt and lift agitator out.
Inspect internal agitator dogs for wear/broken pieces.
Install new agitator dog kit and reassemble.
Test washer for proper agitation.

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure correct orientation of directional cogs.

Check & Replace Drive Belt

Moderate 45-90 minutes

Tools Needed: socket set, screwdrivers

Unplug machine and remove access panel.
Locate drive belt and inspect for wear or break.
Replace belt if damaged and re-seat around pulleys.
Reassemble and test agitation.

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure proper belt tension.

Examine Agitator Splines & Replace Agitator

Moderate 60 minutes

Tools Needed: socket set, screwdrivers

Unplug washer; remove agitator.
Inspect splines on agitator and drive shaft for wear.
Replace agitator assembly if splines are damaged.
Reassemble and test.

⚠️ Safety First: Verify correct part for Amana model.

Professional Repairs

Transmission Replacement or Rebuild

Estimated Cost: $200 - $500+

Motor or Motor Control Board Repair/Replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400+

When to Call a Professional

If gearbox/transmission noise or failure suspected

If motor or electrical diagnosis beyond DIY skills

If parts replacement does not restore agitation

Preventive Maintenance

Regularly inspect agitator dogs for wear: weak or failed agitation due to worn internal cogs
Frequency: annually
Avoid overloading washer: excess strain on agitator coupling and transmission
Frequency: every use

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Amana Washing Machine agitator not functioning properly?

Common causes include a faulty lid switch, worn agitator dogs, or damaged splines.

How do I fix Amana Washing Machine agitator not functioning properly myself?

You can test and replace the lid switch or inspect and replace worn agitator dogs.

How much does it cost to fix agitator not functioning properly?

Professional repair costs range from $200 to $500+ for transmission replacements.

When should I call a technician for agitator not functioning properly?

If DIY solutions do not resolve the issue, or if you suspect motor or transmission faults.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

Worn or damaged agitator dogs
Faulty transmission or gear assembly
Obstruction or debris in the agitator mechanism

User Suggested Solutions

Inspect and replace the agitator dogs. Remove the fabric softener dispenser, unscrew the agitator cap, and lift the agitator out to access the dogs. Replace if worn or damaged.
Check and replace the transmission or gear assembly. This involves removing the agitator, tub, and possibly the motor. Ensure to consult the manual for specific disassembly instructions.
Clear any obstructions in the agitator mechanism. Inspect the area around the agitator for debris and clean out any clogs that may be causing sluggishness.