Lg Washing Machine: noisy spin cycle, burning smell, warm drum

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your LG washing machine is making loud noises during the spin cycle, emitting a burning smell, and has a warm drum, it may indicate serious issues. Common causes include an unbalanced load, foreign objects stuck between the drum and tub, or worn drum bearings. Address these symptoms promptly to avoid further damage.

Urgency: High

Important Tips for Lg Models

  • LG acknowledges that high-temperature cycles can heat the gasket and produce a burning smell in some models; this is normal but should fade after a few uses.

Possible Causes

Unbalanced load or overloaded drum

How to Identify: Noise is intermittent; machine rocks or vibrates excessively; redistributing clothes reduces noise.

Part: Drum / load distribution

Foreign object trapped between drum and tub

How to Identify: Rattling or grinding sounds during spin; small metal objects visible in drum holes.

Part: Tub interior/drum gap

Worn or failing drum bearings / spider assembly

How to Identify: Grinding or screeching noise during spin; drum feels hot; smell from rubber seals; drum may wobble.

Part: Drum bearings / spider

Worn/damaged drive belt or idler assembly

How to Identify: Burning rubber smell; belt fray visible upon inspection; spinning noise followed by smell.

Part: Drive belt / idler pulley

DIY Solutions

Redistribute and reduce load size

Easy 5-10 minutes
  1. Pause the wash cycle and open the door once safe.
  2. Remove heavy or unbalanced items and redistribute remaining laundry evenly.
  3. Restart the spin cycle to see if noise reduces.
⚠️ Safety First: Do not force open the door while locked.

Inspect and remove foreign objects

Moderate 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: Flashlight
  1. Unplug the washer and ensure power is off.
  2. Manually rotate drum and inspect holes for coins/buttons.
  3. Remove any visible foreign objects.
⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before reaching inside drum.

Check and replace drive belt

Advanced 60-90 minutes
Tools Needed: Screwdrivers, Wrench set
  1. Unplug the machine and remove rear access panel.
  2. Inspect the drive belt for fraying or wear.
  3. Replace with OEM belt if damaged.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure correct belt tension and routing.

Professional Repairs

Replace drum bearings or spider assembly

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

Service or replace motor and control board

Estimated Cost: $200 - $600

When to Call a Professional

Burning smell persists after removing objects and balancing load
Drum wobble or grinding noise that suggests bearing failure
Electrical burning odor or visible scorch marks

Preventive Maintenance

  • Run tub clean cycle: Odors and debris build-up that can contribute to noise and smells
    Frequency: monthly
  • Check pockets before washing: Foreign objects causing noise
    Frequency: every load

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my LG Washing Machine noisy spin cycle, burning smell, warm drum?
Common causes include an unbalanced load, foreign objects trapped in the drum, or worn bearings.
How do I fix LG Washing Machine noisy spin cycle, burning smell, warm drum myself?
You can redistribute the load, remove foreign objects, or inspect and replace the drive belt.
How much does it cost to fix noisy spin cycle, burning smell, warm drum?
Professional repairs for drum bearings or motor issues can cost between $150 and $600.
When should I call a technician for noisy spin cycle, burning smell, warm drum?
Call a technician if the DIY fixes don't resolve the issue or if you suspect serious damage.

References & Sources

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 tub bearing causing excessive friction during spin cycle
  • Faulty motor coupling leading to overheating and noise
  • Overloaded washer causing strain on components

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and replace the tub bearing. Start by unplugging the machine, removing the back panel, and accessing the tub. Replace the bearing and reassemble the washer.

  2. Check the motor coupling. Disconnect the power, remove the motor, and inspect the coupling. Replace if damaged or worn.

  3. Reduce the load in the washer. Ensure that the machine is not overloaded during washes to prevent strain on the components.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. lg front load washer seems to have problem with spin cycle n...

Community Discussions

noisy spin cycle, burn smell, warm drum

Bad tub bearing; consider replacing the machine.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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