Electrolux Washing Machine: scraping noise during spin cycle

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Are you hearing a scraping or grinding noise from your Electrolux washing machine during the spin cycle? This issue often arises from metal-on-metal contact as the drum spins at high speeds, potentially caused by foreign objects, worn bearings, or an unbalanced load. Addressing this promptly can prevent further damage.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Electrolux Models

Electrolux documentation notes that loose coins or foreign objects can cause rattling and clanking during spin; normal sounds include occasional thumping but persistent scraping indicates issue. (Electrolux æ”¯æŒ
Electrolux and repair sources emphasize that defective tub bearings often require comprehensive disassembly and professional service. (Electrolux æ”¯æŒ

Possible Causes

Foreign object lodged between inner drum and outer tub

How to Identify: Scraping or metallic noise that changes or stops when load is redistributed or object removed; inspect around rubber boot and between drum panels for coins, keys, bra wires, etc.

Part: Drum / tub interior

Worn or damaged drum/tub bearings

How to Identify: A grinding or continuous scraping noise that persists regardless of load, noise increases with spin speed, and drum when turned manually feels rough or uneven.

Part: Tub bearings

Unbalanced load causing drum misalignment and scraping

How to Identify: Noise occurs when heavy items cluster on one side; stops or reduces when load is redistributed evenly.

Part: Drum/load distribution

Loose or worn suspension/shock absorbers

How to Identify: Loud noise with excessive vibration or banging, noise continues after checking load balance; visual inspection shows loose or worn suspension parts.

Part: Suspension springs/shocks

Loose drive pulley or belt interference

How to Identify: Intermittent scraping or slapping noise with motor belt movement; sounds may vary with spin speed changes.

Part: Drive pulley/belt

DIY Solutions

Remove foreign objects from drum

Easy 10â€“30 minutes

Tools Needed: Flashlight, Small grabber tool

Unplug the washing machine.
Open the door and inspect drum interior and rubber seal for any visible foreign objects.
If possible, tilt the drum by hand to look between inner drum and outer tub for trapped items; use a small grabber to remove.
Run an empty spin cycle to confirm noise has stopped.

⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before inspecting interior parts.

Redistribute laundry load

Easy 5â€“10 minutes

Pause the spin cycle.
Open the door and redistribute clothes evenly in the drum, separating heavy items.
Restart the spin cycle and observe whether noise is reduced.

Check and adjust machine leveling

Moderate 10â€“20 minutes

Tools Needed: Level tool, Wrench

Unplug the washer and place a bubble level on top.
Adjust the feet of the washer until level from front to back and side to side.
Tighten lock nuts on leveling feet and test a spin cycle.

Professional Repairs

Replace drum bearings and seals

Estimated Cost: $150â€“$400+

Replace suspension springs or shock absorbers

Estimated Cost: $80â€“$200

Inspect and repair drive pulley or belt

Estimated Cost: $50â€“$150

When to Call a Professional

Noise persists after removing foreign objects and balancing load

Grinding/scraping continues regardless of load distribution

Signs of water leakage or malfunctioning bearings visible

Suspension parts appear broken or worn

Preventive Maintenance

Check pockets before washing: Foreign objects lodging in drum causing scraping
Frequency: every load
Level washer on installation: Unbalanced load vibration and associated noise
Frequency: once at installation and check yearly
Inspect suspension parts annually: Wear that leads to excessive vibration
Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Electrolux Washing Machine scraping noise during spin cycle?

The noise is likely due to foreign objects, worn bearings, or an unbalanced load causing metal-on-metal contact.

How do I fix Electrolux Washing Machine scraping noise during spin cycle myself?

To fix it, remove foreign objects, redistribute laundry evenly, or adjust the machine's leveling.

How much does it cost to fix scraping noise during spin cycle?

Professional repair costs range from $50 to $400+, depending on whether bearings or suspension components need replacement.

When should I call a technician for scraping noise during spin cycle?

Call a technician if DIY solutions do not resolve the issue or if you suspect severe wear or damage.

References & Sources

Electrolux Washing Machine Noise and Shake Guide Official
Electrolux Is it normal for washer to make sounds Official
MaxMcgregor: Washing machine making scraping noise Repair-Blog

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

Foreign object caught in the drum or pump
Worn or damaged drum bearings
Faulty drive belt or pulley

User Suggested Solutions

Check for foreign objects: Unplug the washing machine, remove the drum and check for small items like coins or buttons that may have slipped through. Remove any debris found.
Inspect and replace drum bearings: Disassemble the washing machine to access the drum bearings. Check for wear and replace them if necessary. Reassemble the machine and test.
Examine and replace the drive belt: Open the back panel of the washing machine, inspect the drive belt for wear or damage, and replace it if needed. Ensure all components are secured before testing.