Washer: Why is my washing machine noisy or shaking?

The spin basket is the perforated container that holds laundry during the wash cycle. The spin basket is inside the stationary outer tub. If the spanner nut becomes so loose that the spin basket doesn't rotate properly, tightening the spanner nut can often fix the problem. If the spin basket was damaged while the spanner nut was loose, replace the spin basket. Also replace the spin basket if it's scratched or damaged by an object left in a laundered garment.

The drive block, which attaches to the top of the spin tube, rotates the spin basket when the washer is in spin mode. If the drive block wears out, the basket wobbles and rattles during the spin mode or won't spin at all. Before replacing the drive block, make sure the spanner nut under the agitator that holds the spin basket against the drive block isn't loose. If the spanner nut is tight and the basket still wobbles, replace the drive block.

The drain pump removes water from the washer at the appropriate times during the wash cycle. The pump's bearing can seize, the seal can fail or the impeller blades can break. The belt on a belt-driven pumps can break, and the pulley can shear off. A humming noise when the washer is full of water is a common symptom of a failing pump. In some cases, you can repair the pump by clearing it of debris, fixing wiring failures or replacing a seal. If the pump can't be repaired or rebuilt, replace it.

The shifter assembly-also called the actuator-in a top-load washer is mounted on the bottom of the gearcase. The shifter assembly's motor shifts the drive system between the agitation mode and the spin mode. A sensor on the shifter monitors the position of the drive system during the wash cycle. If the motor, sensor or mechanical parts of the shifter assembly fail, the washer stops and signal an error code. Replace the shifter assembly if it malfunctions.

In a direct-drive top-load washer, the gearcase drives the agitator and the spin basket.The washer gearcase has internal gears that create the agitation motion. For the spinning motion of the spin basket, it shifts the drive shaft and spins the drive tube. If the gearcase in a direct-drive washer locks up or it doesn't work properly in the agitation or spin mode, replace it. The gearcase typically makes a grinding noise and may leak oil when it's failed.

Shock absorbers absorb the vibrations and movements of the outer washer tub on a front-load washer. The shock absorbers also hold the outer tub in place to prevent damage, while allowing reasonable movement during spin and agitation modes. A common symptom of a failing shock absorber is knocking and tub instability at high spin speeds. If the shock absorbers don't maintain the stability of the tub, replace them.

A service technician does a regular preventive maintenance check, examining the washer for potential problems and testing the functions of the washer. The technician makes adjustments to maximize the efficiency and ensure smooth operation of the washer.

The outer washer tub houses the inner metal spin basket. The other tub is stationary and usually made of plastic. The outer tub can leak if it's damaged. Replace the outer tub if an inspection reveals a crack or hole in the tub.