Kenmore Washing Machine: making noise

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Kenmore washing machine making loud noises like rumbling, banging, or grinding during cycles? These unusual sounds, often louder than normal operations, can disrupt your laundry routine. Common causes include unbalanced loads, foreign objects in the drum, or level issues. Understanding these symptoms can help you diagnose and resolve the problem effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

Loose bolts on main pulley assembly can occur on specific Kenmore models (e.g., 110 Series), leading to noise and potential damage.

Possible Causes

Unbalanced load distribution

How to Identify: Banging or thumping especially during spin; clothes unevenly distributed inside drum

Part: Drum/Load

DIY Solutions

Redistribute and balance the load

Easy 5-10 minutes

Pause cycle and open washer door
Redistribute clothing evenly around the drum
Avoid overloading and mix heavy with light items
Restart and observe noise reduction

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is off before reaching into moving drum

Check and remove foreign objects

Moderate 10-20 minutes

Tools Needed: Flashlight, Towel

Unplug machine
Inspect drum interior and rubber gasket area for loose objects
If accessible, check drain pump filter for debris
Remove any found objects carefully

⚠️ Safety First: Unplug appliance before accessing internal areas

Level the washing machine

Moderate 10-15 minutes

Tools Needed: Bubble level, Wrench

Place level on top of washer
Adjust feet by turning to raise/lower corners until machine is level
Tighten lock nuts on feet

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure unit is stable after adjustments

Professional Repairs

Replace drum bearings or tub assembly

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

Replace drive belt/pulley

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

Replace suspension/shocks

Estimated Cost: $60 - $200

When to Call a Professional

Noise persists after balancing load and removing foreign objects

Grinding or rumbling noise indicating internal mechanical wear

Machine vibrates excessively even when level and properly loaded

Preventive Maintenance

Check and level feet: Vibration and associated noise
Frequency: monthly
Inspect drum and remove foreign objects: Rattling noises from trapped items
Frequency: monthly
Avoid overloading: Unbalanced load noise and mechanical strain
Frequency: Every use

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Washing Machine making noise?

Common causes include unbalanced load distribution and foreign objects in the drum.

How do I fix Kenmore Washing Machine making noise myself?

Redistribute the load evenly, check for foreign objects, and ensure the washer is level.

How much does it cost to fix making noise?

Professional repairs can range from $50 to $400, depending on the issue.

When should I call a technician for making noise?

If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue, or if the noise persists, it's time to consult a professional.

References & Sources

5 Reasons Your Washer is Making Loud Noise Repair-Blog

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

50%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

Worn or damaged drum bearings
Loose or damaged drive belt
Foreign objects in the drum or pump

User Suggested Solutions

Inspect and replace worn or damaged drum bearings. To do this, disconnect the power, remove the back panel, and check the bearings for wear. If they are damaged, remove the drum and replace the bearings with new ones.
Check the drive belt for looseness or damage. Disconnect the power, remove the front panel, and inspect the drive belt. If it’s loose, adjust the tension; if damaged, replace it with a new belt.
Remove any foreign objects from the drum or pump. Check the drum for items like coins or small clothing that may have fallen in. Also, inspect the pump filter for blockages and clean it out.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

Best Washing Machine?

Community Discussions

started to sound terrible

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