Whirlpool Washing Machine: not completing cycle, not spinning properly

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Whirlpool washing machine not completing its cycle or spinning properly? You may notice it stops midway, leaves clothes wet, or vibrates unusually. Common causes include an unbalanced load, faulty lid switch, or drainage issues. Learn how to troubleshoot and resolve these problems effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Whirlpool Models

Whirlpool official troubleshooting acknowledges multiple common causes from settings to mechanical issues for spin problems.

Possible Causes

Unbalanced or overloaded laundry load

How to Identify: Machine shakes or vibrates excessively during spin; clothes remain very wet; spin cycle pauses.

Part: Drum/Load distribution

Faulty lid switch or door lock safety mechanism

How to Identify: Washer refuses to spin though water fills and drains; lid/door lock doesnâ€™t register closed.

Part: Lid switch assembly

Drainage issues (clogged pump/hose) preventing proper water removal

How to Identify: Water remains in tub after wash; washer stops mid-cycle; spin not initiated.

Part: Drain pump and hose

Worn or broken drive belt

How to Identify: Drum wonâ€™t spin; belt appears loose, cracked, or missing when inspected.

Part: Drive belt

Worn suspension rods/springs or shock absorbers causing imbalance detection

How to Identify: Washer consistently vibrates and stops spin; component wear visible on inspection.

Part: Suspension rods/springs

Faulty electronic control board or sensor errors

How to Identify: Error codes displayed; no response after reset; other mechanical parts check good.

Part: Control board/Spin sensor

DIY Solutions

Redistribute Laundry and Reduce Load

Easy 5-10 minutes

Pause machine and open lid/door
Redistribute clothes evenly around drum
Remove items if overloaded and restart cycle

⚠️ Safety First: Do not force machine restart if water remains until drainage confirmed

Clean/Unblock Drain Pump and Hose

Moderate 20-40 minutes

Tools Needed: Bucket, Screwdriver, Pliers

Unplug machine
Locate and remove drain pump access panel
Catch water in bucket and clear blockages in hose/filter
Reassemble and test

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is disconnected

Test and Replace Lid Switch

Moderate 30-60 minutes

Tools Needed: Multimeter, Screwdriver

Unplug washer
Access lid switch assembly
Use multimeter to check continuity
Replace switch if no continuity
Reassemble and test

⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before opening panel

Inspect and Replace Drive Belt

Advanced 60-90 minutes

Tools Needed: Screwdriver, Wrench

Unplug washer
Remove back/service panel
Inspect belt for wear/break
Replace belt if damaged
Reassemble and test

⚠️ Safety First: Power must be off

Professional Repairs

Replace Suspension Shocks/Springs

Estimated Cost: $80 - $200

Control Board or Sensor Replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

Motor or Transmission Repair/Replacement

Estimated Cost: $200 - $500+

When to Call a Professional

Persistent loud banging/vibration after load balancing

Visible electrical issues or burning smell

Error codes that DIY steps donâ€™t clear

Preventive Maintenance

Clean drain pump filter: Clog-related spin and draining issues
Frequency: Monthly
Level the washer and check load distribution: Unbalanced load interruptions
Frequency: Every use

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool Washing Machine not completing cycle, not spinning properly?

Common causes include an unbalanced load, a faulty lid switch, or drainage issues such as clogged hoses.

How do I fix Whirlpool Washing Machine not completing cycle, not spinning properly myself?

Redistribute laundry, clean the drain pump, or test the lid switch for continuity.

How much does it cost to fix not completing cycle, not spinning properly?

Professional repairs can range from $80 for suspension repairs to $500+ for motor replacements.

When should I call a technician for not completing cycle, not spinning properly?

Call a technician if DIY fixes fail, especially for complex issues like control board replacement.

References & Sources

8 Reasons Why Your Washing Machine Is Not Spinning Official
8 Reasons Why Your Whirlpool Washer Wonâ€™t Spin Properly Repair-Blog

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

Clogged drain pump or hose
Faulty lid switch
Malfunctioning motor or motor control board

User Suggested Solutions

Check and clear any obstructions in the drain pump and hose. Disconnect the washing machine from power, remove the drain hose, and inspect for clogs. Clean any debris found and reassemble.
Test the lid switch for continuity using a multimeter. If it shows no continuity, replace the lid switch. Ensure the machine is unplugged before performing this test.
Inspect the motor and motor control board for any signs of damage or burning. If damaged, replace the motor or control board. This may require professional assistance if you're not familiar with electrical components.