Kenmore Washing Machine: loud noise during spin cycle

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Kenmore washing machine making a loud noise during the spin cycle? This common issue often results from an unbalanced load, causing banging or grinding sounds as the drum speeds up. Other potential causes include foreign objects caught in the drum or worn-out suspension components. Addressing these issues promptly can help maintain your machine's performance.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • Kenmore washers commonly experience loud spin noise due to worn tub bearings and seals, similar to other brands.

Possible Causes

Unbalanced load (laundry distribution)

How to Identify: Noise reduces or stops when redistributing clothes evenly; occurs especially with few or heavy items

Part: Laundry load distribution inside drum

Foreign objects in drum or debris caught between tub and drum

How to Identify: Clinking or rattling sounds, possible visible debris inside drum seal area after stopping machine

Part: Inner drum and outer tub gap

Damaged suspension/shock absorbers or springs

How to Identify: Excessive vibration alongside loud noise, machine body moves significantly during spin

Part: Suspension springs/shock absorbers

DIY Solutions

Redistribute laundry for balanced load

Easy 2–5 minutes
  1. Stop the cycle and open washer lid/door
  2. Redistribute clothes evenly around drum to avoid heavy grouping
  3. Restart spin cycle to check noise reduction

Check and adjust machine leveling

Moderate 10–20 minutes
Tools Needed: level tool or smartphone app, wrench for adjusting feet
  1. Place level on top of washer to check balance
  2. Adjust leveling feet by turning to raise/lower corners until level
  3. Tighten lock nuts on feet and test spin cycle
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure machine is unplugged when adjusting feet

Remove foreign objects from drum area

Moderate 10–30 minutes
Tools Needed: Flashlight
  1. Stop washer and unplug
  2. Inspect drum interior and drum lip area with flashlight
  3. Remove visible objects/debris carefully
⚠️ Safety First: Do not reach into moving parts and unplug before inspection

Professional Repairs

Replace tub bearings and seal

Estimated Cost: $80 - $250

Replace suspension/shock absorbers or springs

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

When to Call a Professional

Persistent loud noise after balancing load and checking installation
Grinding or rumbling that suggests internal bearings failure
Visible leakage near seal or unusual movement indicating internal damage

Preventive Maintenance

  • Ensure even load distribution each wash: Imbalance noise and wear
    Frequency: Every cycle
  • Check and adjust machine level regularly: Unnecessary vibration noise
    Frequency: Monthly or after relocation

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Washing Machine loud noise during spin cycle?
The noise may stem from an unbalanced load, foreign objects in the drum, or damaged suspension components.
How do I fix Kenmore Washing Machine loud noise during spin cycle myself?
Redistribute the laundry for balance, check machine leveling, and remove any foreign objects from the drum area.
How much does it cost to fix loud noise during spin cycle?
Professional repairs can range from $50 to $250 depending on the issue, like bearings or suspension parts.
When should I call a technician for loud noise during spin cycle?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if you suspect major component failure, it's time to call a technician.

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 drive belt causing slippage and noise
  • Loose or damaged drum bearings leading to excessive movement
  • Foreign objects trapped in the drum or pump, causing rattling sounds

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and replace the drive belt. Unplug the machine, remove the back panel, and check the belt for wear or damage. Replace if necessary.

  2. Check and replace drum bearings. This involves removing the drum assembly, which may require special tools. Inspect for wear and replace if needed.

  3. Remove any foreign objects from the drum or pump. Check pockets and inspect the drain filter for blockages.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Repair or Replace?

Community Discussions

loud noise during spin cycle

Replace the transmission and tub due to rust.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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