LG Washing Machine: broken spindle
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.
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
- Disconnect power and water supply.
- Open cabinet per model instructions.
- Manually spin and move drum to check play and listen for grinding noises.
- Inspect visible bearings and spindle for play or damage.
Next step
Choose the next step for broken spindle
Confirm the diagnosis before ordering. An error code can identify the system involved, but it does not prove that a specific part has failed.
Most relevant component to inspect
Drum Bearing Kit
Supports the spinning drum and ensures smooth, quiet rotation during cycles.
- Typical part-only price
- $40 - $95
- DIY difficulty
- Hard
- Estimated time
- 120-180 mins
Where can I find the model number?
Check the rating label around the door, lid, frame, rear panel, or inside the appliance cabinet. Use the complete model number, including suffixes.
Verify the complete model and part number on the retailer's compatibility page before ordering.
Other parts options
Check related components first; use model search as a fallback.
Model-compatible Washing Machine parts
Enter the complete model number to browse compatible replacement parts. This is a model-based parts search, not a diagnosis that a specific component failed.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a commission from other qualifying purchases or service requests made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. Recommendations are based on repair relevance, not commission rate.
Optional routine care
Maintenance supplies
These products support cleaning or routine upkeep. They are separate from the possible repair components above and are not claimed to fix this error code or symptom.
Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets
Routine tub-cleaning supplies for residue and odor control. They do not repair a mechanical, drainage, or electronic fault.
Braided Washer Inlet Hoses
A maintenance replacement option for visibly worn external fill hoses. Verify thread size, length, and hot/cold connection requirements.
Washer Drain Hose Holder
Helps secure an external drain hose at the standpipe. It does not correct an internal pump or control fault.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Recommendations are based on routine-care relevance, not commission rate.
Professional Repairs
Replace Drum Spindle and Bearings
When to Call a Professional
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?
How do I fix LG Washing Machine broken spindle myself?
How much does it cost to fix broken spindle?
When should I call a technician for broken spindle?
Community Analytical Insights
Guidance from available sources; statistical claims are shown only for samples of at least 10 discussions
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. 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.
-
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.
-
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.
Limited-source guidance; percentages and success-rate claims are not shown
View
Sources
Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:
Community Discussions
broken agitating spindle
Use a monkey wrench or impact tool, and consider heating the nut if it's stuck.
Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair
User Comments (0)
Share your experience or solution below.
Please login to post a comment.
Be the first to comment!