LG Washing Machine: scraping noise

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your LG washing machine is producing a scraping noise during the wash or spin cycle, it could indicate serious issues. This abrasive sound may be caused by foreign objects in the drum or pump, worn drum bearings, or loose internal components. Addressing this problem promptly can prevent further damage and ensure your machine operates smoothly.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for LG Models

  • LG official troubleshooting lists foreign objects and unbalanced loads as primary noise causes and recommends checking for debris and load distribution.
  • LG guides note that grinding/squeaking noises at spin end with imbalance may be motor noise not malfunction but persistent scraping needs service. (LG Electronics

Possible Causes

Foreign object caught in drum or pump

How to Identify: Scraping coincides with rotation; metallic objects heard moving; check drum holes and drain pump trap for coins, pins, or small debris

Part: Drum interior / drain pump filter

Worn drum bearings

How to Identify: Rumbling or scraping increases with spin speed; rough feel when rotating drum by hand; possible rust or grease leakage near seal

Part: Drum bearings / tub seal

Loose or damaged internal components (belt, pulley)

How to Identify: Noise changes with load and speed; opening back panel reveals visibly loose belt or misaligned pulleys

Part: Drive belt / pulleys

Improper leveling or unbalanced load causing scraping contact

How to Identify: Noise lessens after leveling or redistributing laundry; excessive vibration present

Part: Machine feet / drum suspension

DIY Solutions

Remove foreign objects from drum and pump

Moderate 15–30 minutes
Tools Needed: Flashlight, Screwdriver (if accessing pump filter)
  1. Unplug washer and open door
  2. Inspect drum holes and interior for objects; remove with pliers if needed
  3. Locate and clean drain pump filter/trap (typically behind lower front panel) removing any debris
  4. Run an empty spin cycle to verify noise is gone
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is disconnected before accessing internal components

Level the washing machine and rebalance load

Easy 10–15 minutes
Tools Needed: Level, Wrench or adjustable pliers
  1. Empty drum and use a level to check washer alignment
  2. Adjust feet to make washer level
  3. Redistribute laundry evenly for future loads and avoid overloading
⚠️ Safety First: Be careful adjusting feet; ensure unit remains stable

Next step

Choose the next step for scraping noise

Confirm the diagnosis before ordering. An error code can identify the system involved, but it does not prove that a specific part has failed.

Check during diagnosis

Most relevant component to inspect

Drain Pump

Pumps waste water out of the appliance during the drain cycle.

Typical part-only price
$35 - $80
DIY difficulty
Easy
Estimated time
15-30 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.

Find a part that fits my model

Verify the complete model and part number on the retailer's compatibility page before ordering.

Also check
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Other parts options

Check related components first; use model search as a fallback.

Possible related component

Drum Bearing Kit

Supports the spinning drum and ensures smooth, quiet rotation during cycles.

$40 - $95 · Hard · 120-180 mins

Check fit & price
Possible related component

Drive Belt

Transfers rotational power from the motor to turn the drum or tub.

$15 - $35 · Easy · 20-30 mins

Check fit & price
Model number required

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.

Find a part that fits my model

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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.

Maintenance supply

Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets

Routine tub-cleaning supplies for residue and odor control. They do not repair a mechanical, drainage, or electronic fault.

View maintenance supply
Maintenance supply

Braided Washer Inlet Hoses

A maintenance replacement option for visibly worn external fill hoses. Verify thread size, length, and hot/cold connection requirements.

View maintenance supply
Maintenance supply

Washer Drain Hose Holder

Helps secure an external drain hose at the standpipe. It does not correct an internal pump or control fault.

View maintenance supply

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 bearings and seals

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400+

Check and replace drive belt or pulleys

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

When to Call a Professional

Noise persists after removing foreign objects and balancing load
Noise occurs even with empty drum
Rough feel when rotating drum by hand
Signs of water leakage or rust around bearings

Preventive Maintenance

  • Check pockets before every wash: Foreign objects entering drum
    Frequency: Each use
  • Level washer and check feet: Unbalanced loads and noise
    Frequency: Monthly or after relocation
  • Clean drain pump filter: Trapped debris causing noise
    Frequency: Every 3–6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my LG Washing Machine scraping noise?
Common causes include foreign objects in the drum or pump, worn drum bearings, and loose internal components.
How do I fix LG Washing Machine scraping noise myself?
Unplug the washer, inspect for foreign objects, and clean the drain pump filter. Level the machine and balance loads.
How much does it cost to fix scraping noise?
Professional repairs range from $150 to $400+ for drum bearings and $50 to $150 for belts or pulleys.
When should I call a technician for scraping noise?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if the scraping persists, it's best to consult a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Guidance from available sources; statistical claims are shown only for samples of at least 10 discussions

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Foreign object stuck in the drum or pump
  • Worn or damaged drum bearings
  • Loose or damaged drive belt

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect the drum for foreign objects. Unplug the washing machine, remove the drum cover, and check for any items lodged inside. If found, carefully remove them and reassemble the machine.

  2. Check and replace worn or damaged drum bearings. This involves disassembling the washer, removing the drum, and replacing the bearings. Ensure to consult the user manual for specific instructions.

  3. Inspect the drive belt for any signs of wear or damage. If the belt is loose or frayed, replace it with a new one. This typically requires removing the back panel of the washer.

Limited-source guidance; percentages and success-rate claims are not shown
View Sources

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

  1. LG Washing machine - WT7100CW - Suddenly maching a scraping ...

Community Discussions

scraping / scratching noise on spin cycle

A piece of metal was stuck in the drum, causing the noise.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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