5 Common Washing Machine Motor Problems

by DoItYourself Staff

Problems with a washing machine motor is one of the more common things that can go wrong with the appliance. Other problems include drainage issues, electrical issues and drum issues. The washer motor is the central component that drives the entire device. Without it, nothing would work. If there is a problem with your washer, there is a good chance it is sourced in or directly connected to the motor. The reason this is the case is that the motor provides power to the functioning internal elements of the washing machine. These include the agitator, gearbox, pump and clutch. If the motor goes out, everything else will fail to perform as it should.

5 Common Washing Machine Motor Problems

Washer Won’t Pump or Spin: It may happen that the washing machine fails to pump water in and out, as well as spin. This may happen with the motor running, and if it doesn't, it is likely due to a failed lid switch. This switch is near the door frame, inside the washing machine. If defective, it needs replacing.
Pumps, but Won’t Spin: Again, it could be the lid switch that is causing the washer to pump water but not spin. Another possible cause is a broken coupler, a plastic or rubber connector that joins the shaft of the motor to the transmission. Replacement is the only option when it breaks down. Other possible culprits include a broken belt, a worn clutch or a malfunctioning drive motor. Drive motors are designed to move in two directions. It can burn out moving in one direction while continuing to work going the other way. Unfortunately, the whole motor needs replacing if one directions fails.
Washer Won’t Agitate: The agitator is designed to move the clothes around in the water before the spin cycle. If the washer doesn't agitate, the problem could be many of the same things: faulty lid switch, coupler on the motor, worn belt or clutch, a failed drive motor or pulleys, or the transmission. If the clutch has gone out, sometimes you will notice a black substance on the ground underneath the washer. This indicates that the clutch needs replacing.
Clothes Still Wet: After a spin cycle, a washing machine not functioning properly will leave clothes wet. Once again, the cause could be the motor coupler. With other brands such as Maytag it could be a worn out belt, while with GE products it may be a worn clutch.
Problems in Every Cycle: A washing machine that won’t spin, agitate or perform the necessary tasks of each cycle may have a faulty drive motor, which will need to be replaced. On GE washers, the automatic shift lever of the clutch may have failed, leading to a repair job requiring a technician.

The good news about improperly functioning washing machines is that the problem is confined to only a few components, many of them connected to the motor. The motor drives the components that enable the washer to fill up with water, agitate, spin and drain. There are numerous things that can go wrong with a machine. In many cases, some aspect of the motor is to blame. While some smaller, inexpensive parts are easy to fix yourself, some bigger jobs require an expert or a full replacement of a main component.