Lg Washing Machine: broken spindle

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your LG washing machine's drum not spinning? A broken spindle could be the issue. This problem often results in unusual noises and can render your machine inoperable. Check for drum play and listen for grinding sounds to diagnose the issue.

Urgency: High

Important Tips for Lg Models

  • LG washer spindle/axle and bearing kits vary by model and often require model-specific parts; professional teardown usually required.

Possible Causes

Drive shaft / spindle failure due to wear or corrosion

How to Identify: Drum spins freely by hand with wobble or play; loud scraping/grinding noises; visible damage on spindle on inspection.

Part: Drum spindle / drive shaft

Bearing and seal failure leading to spindle stress

How to Identify: Loud rumbling or grinding noises during spin; water leakage; excessive drum play indicating bearing wear.

Part: Drum bearings and seals

DIY Solutions

Check Drum Play and Bearings

Moderate 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdrivers, work gloves
  1. Disconnect power and water supply.
  2. Open cabinet per model instructions.
  3. Manually spin and move drum to check play and listen for grinding noises.
  4. Inspect visible bearings and spindle for play or damage.
⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before opening machine.

Professional Repairs

Replace Drum Spindle and Bearings

Estimated Cost: $250 - $800

When to Call a Professional

If the drum does not spin and manual inspection shows loose/broken spindle or damaged bearings
If unusual loud grinding or metal-on-metal sounds occur during spin
If water leakage accompanies noise or play in the drum

Preventive Maintenance

  • Regularly inspect drum bearings by hand for early play: Bearing and spindle wear leading to failure
    Frequency: Annually
  • Keep machine level and balanced loads: Uneven load stress that accelerates bearing/spindle wear
    Frequency: Each use

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my LG Washing Machine broken spindle?
The spindle may fail due to wear, corrosion, or bearing and seal issues causing stress.
How do I fix LG Washing Machine broken spindle myself?
To check, disconnect power and water, then inspect the drum for play and listen for grinding noises.
How much does it cost to fix broken spindle?
Professional repairs for a broken spindle typically cost between $250 and $800.
When should I call a technician for broken spindle?
If DIY checks indicate severe damage or if you're unsure, call a technician immediately.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

70%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Worn or damaged spindle bearings
  • Corroded or rusted spindle nut
  • Improper installation or misalignment of the spindle

User Suggested Solutions

  1. 1. Unplug the washing machine. 2. Remove the agitator by unscrewing the top cap and the bolts underneath. 3. Inspect the spindle for wear or damage. 4. If the bearings are worn, replace them. 5. If the spindle nut is corroded, use penetrating oil and a wrench to remove it. 6. Reassemble the agitator and plug the machine back in.

  2. 1. Check for misalignment by ensuring the spindle is properly seated. 2. If misaligned, adjust the position of the spindle and retighten all screws. 3. Test the machine to ensure proper operation.

  3. 1. If the spindle is stuck, apply heat to the spindle nut with a heat gun or torch. 2. Use a monkey wrench or impact tool to loosen the nut. 3. Once removed, inspect the spindle and replace if necessary.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Broke Spindle on LG Washing Machine

Community Discussions

broken agitating spindle

Use a monkey wrench or impact tool, and consider heating the nut if it's stuck.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

User Comments (0)

Share your experience or solution below.

Be the first to comment!