Whirlpool Washing Machine: clicking noise

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing a clicking noise from your Whirlpool washing machine? This sound may occur during various stages of operation, including agitation and spinning. It can be rhythmic or intermittent, often indicating issues such as a normal lid lock sound or foreign objects in the drum. Understanding the potential causes can help you determine the best course of action.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Whirlpool Models

Whirlpool official guides state some clicking at cycle start is the normal sound of the lid or door locking.

Possible Causes

Normal lid lock/door lock mechanism

How to Identify: Clicking occurs only at the start of a cycle around 10 seconds after start and no other performance issues are present.

Part: Lid lock switch or door lock actuator

Foreign object in drum or drain pump

How to Identify: Clicking during agitation or spin, often irregular and may stop after removing object; check drum and pump for small objects like coins, buttons.

Part: Drain pump/Impeller or drum interior

Drive pulley or transmission engagement parts (e.g., splutch/clutch)

How to Identify: Clicking during spin/agitation with load turning inconsistently or slipping; may require accessing underside or belt area.

Part: Drive pulley/Splutch/Clutch assembly

Worn or damaged drive belt

How to Identify: Rhythmic clicking associated with motor belt tension and spinning; visible wear on belt upon inspection.

Part: Drive belt

Tub bearings or suspension wear

How to Identify: Clicking that becomes grinding or louder over time, often with excessive vibration during spin; drum may feel loose.

Part: Tub bearings/Suspension rods

DIY Solutions

Check for Normal Lid Lock Sound

Easy 1-2 minutes

Start a wash cycle and listen for clicking within the first 10â€“15 seconds.
If the clicking is only at start and ceases, this is normal lid/door lock engagement.

Inspect Drum and Remove Foreign Objects

Easy 10-15 minutes

Tools Needed: Flashlight

Unplug the washer for safety.
Manually inspect drum interior for small objects between drum and tub.
Check and clear any debris from drain pump access (if accessible).

⚠️ Safety First: Unplug machine before reaching inside pump or drum area.

Inspect and Replace Drive Belt

Moderate 30-45 minutes

Tools Needed: Screwdriver, Wrench

Unplug washer and remove access panel.
Inspect drive belt for wear or damage.
Replace belt with correct part if worn.

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is off before panel removal.

Professional Repairs

Replace Drive Pulley or Splutch/Clutch Assembly

Estimated Cost: $80 - $200

Replace Tub Bearings or Suspension Components

Estimated Cost: $150 - $350

When to Call a Professional

Persistent clicking after removing foreign objects

Noise during spin with load imbalance unresolved

Associated grinding, vibration, or failure to complete cycles

Preventive Maintenance

Remove loose objects from pockets before washing: Foreign objects causing clicking or damage
Frequency: Per load
Ensure machine is level on floor: Unbalanced loads and excess component wear
Frequency: Monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool Washing Machine clicking noise?

The clicking noise may be due to the normal lid lock mechanism, foreign objects in the drum, or drive components.

How do I fix Whirlpool Washing Machine clicking noise myself?

Start by checking for normal lid lock sounds and inspect the drum for foreign objects. You can also replace a worn drive belt.

How much does it cost to fix clicking noise?

Professional repairs for issues like drive pulley replacement can cost between $80 and $200, while tub bearing replacements range from $150 to $350.

When should I call a technician for clicking noise?

If the noise persists after DIY checks or if you're unsure about performing repairs, it's best to consult a technician.

References & Sources

Clicking or Clacking - Noise - Product Help | Whirlpool Official
Clicking or Locking Noise - Front Load Washer - Whirlpool Official

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

60%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

Foreign object stuck in the drum or pump
Worn or damaged drive belt
Faulty motor coupling

User Suggested Solutions

Check for foreign objects: Unplug the washing machine, remove the drum, and inspect for any items stuck in the drum or pump. Remove any debris found.
Inspect and replace the drive belt: Unplug the machine, remove the back panel, and check the condition of the drive belt. If worn or frayed, replace it with a new one.
Test and replace the motor coupling: Unplug the machine, remove the motor, and check the motor coupling for wear or damage. Replace if necessary.