Samsung Dryer: not spinning

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Samsung dryer powers on but the drum refuses to spin, it can be frustrating. This issue often arises from common causes such as a broken drive belt or faulty drum rollers, preventing your laundry from drying efficiently.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Samsung Models

Samsung official troubleshooting notes that tests can be run when drum doesnâ€™t spin; refer to Samsung support for model-specific diagnostics.

Possible Causes

Broken or worn drive belt

How to Identify: Motor sounds running but drum does not rotate; belt visibly worn, cracked, or snapped if inspected.

Part: Drive belt

Faulty drum rollers or idler pulley

How to Identify: Drum hard to turn manually; squeaking or resistance when rotated by hand.

Part: Drum rollers / Idler pulley

Defective motor or motor control board

How to Identify: No drum movement and no typical motor noise; diagnostic error codes may appear.

Part: Dryer motor / control board

Faulty door switch or interlock

How to Identify: Dryer will not start spinning when door is closed; check switch continuity.

Part: Door switch

DIY Solutions

Check and Replace Drive Belt

Moderate 60-90 minutes

Tools Needed: Screwdrivers, Socket set, Flashlight

Unplug dryer and access the cabinet per model service manual.
Locate and inspect the drive belt around the drum and motor.
If broken or worn, remove old belt and loop new belt around drum and motor pulley.
Reassemble panels and test operation.

⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before opening the dryer.

Inspect Drum Rollers and Idler Pulley

Advanced 90-120 minutes

Tools Needed: Screwdrivers, Multimeter optional

Disconnect power and remove dryer access panels.
Check drum rollers and idler pulley for wear or seizure.
Replace worn rollers or pulley following model-specific instructions.
Reassemble and test if drum spins smoothly.

⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power.

Professional Repairs

Replace Motor or Control Board

Estimated Cost: $200 - $500+

Advanced Diagnostic and Repair

Estimated Cost: $150 - $600+

When to Call a Professional

Dryer exhibits electrical issues beyond simple belt/roller replacement

Unusual noises from motor area

Error codes indicating control board failure

Preventive Maintenance

Clean lint filter regularly: strain on motor and airflow issues
Frequency: after every cycle
Inspect belt/rollers every 12 months: belt wear and drum rotation problems
Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Samsung Dryer not spinning?

Common causes include a broken drive belt, faulty drum rollers, or a defective motor.

How do I fix Samsung Dryer not spinning myself?

Check and replace the drive belt or inspect the drum rollers and idler pulley.

How much does it cost to fix not spinning?

Professional repairs can cost between $200 to $500+ depending on the issue.

When should I call a technician for not spinning?

Call a technician if DIY solutions seem too complex or the issue persists after basic checks.

References & Sources

Samsung dryer doesnâ€™t start or spin troubleshooting Official
Samsung Dryer Not Spinning? Tips 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: Professional

Common Issues Reported by Users

Motor failure (2 mentions)
Belt or idler pulley issues (2 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

Repairing the motor

Success rate: 25.0%
Replacing the belt or idler pulley

Success rate: 0.0%

Analysis based on 3 community discussions
View Sources

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

Community Discussions

motor not spinning, sometimes needs to be physically turned

Repairing the motor is possible and may cost around $100 if done DIY; otherwise, replacement is suggested.