Washing Machine Motor Problems: What Can Go Wrong—and What to Do

You know, washing machines are magical in a way—they clean our clothes almost as if by magic. But sometimes they act up. And often, it’s all about the motor. Let’s walk through what happens when the motor starts misbehaving, why it happens, and how to fix it (or know when to call for help).

🧼 What Does the Motor Even Do?

Here’s the thing: the motor powers the drum to spin and shake your clothes during washing and spinning. No motor spin = no cleaning. Many modern washers use a direct drive brushless DC motor—so no belt, just direct connection to the drum. Others still use the older belt-driven or induction motors.:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Symptoms That Suggest the Motor Might Be Failing

If your washer shows one or more of these issues, the motor could be the culprit:

• The drum doesn’t spin or agitates very weakly.:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
• You hear humming, buzzing, grinding, or clicking sounds when it tries to start.:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
• The wash cycle stops in the middle—as if the machine just gave up.:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
• Spin cycles don’t get clothes dry enough or seem sluggish.:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• You smell burning or electrical smells from the machine.:contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Why Does the Motor Fault?

Several things can go wrong:

1. Worn carbon brushes: These touch the spinning part inside. They wear out over time causing poor contact or no run at all.:contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
2. Burned-out windings: If the motor overheats (due to overload), the copper windings may weaken or fail.:contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
3. Damaged bearings: The drum shaft may not spin freely if bearings are worn, causing noise and motor stress.:contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
4. Strain from overload or imbalance: Overloading your washer—or washing a heavy bath mat—can hamstring the motor.:contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
5. Electrical faults or transmission issues: Faulty wiring, a failing timer or gearbox can mimic motor problems—or stress the motor until it fails.:contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

Hands-On Checks You Can Try at Home

If you’re okay with basic tinkering (and unplugging the washer first!), here’s what to do:

• Try spinning the motor pulley by hand. Does it turn smoothly both ways? Rough movement = potential bearings or seized rotor issue.:contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
• Check for worn brushes or burnt-looking wires. Some motors let you replace brushes separately if they’re worn.:contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
• Use a multimeter to test motor winding resistance. If it’s too high or dead, the motor’s windings are damaged.:contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
• Inspect the drive belt (on belt-driven models): A worn or slipping belt can cause the motor to grind or buzz. Belts are usually cheap and easy to replace.:contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
• Check the load size and drum balance: too heavy or uneven loads strain the motor. Spread clothes more evenly next time.:contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
• Listen for odd noises: humming suggests stuck rotor; clicking may point to failing bearings or brushes.:contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}

When DIY Isn’t Enough (Or Safe)

If you’ve tried the easy checks but:

• The motor still hums but doesn’t run
• Testing shows burned windings or bad resistance
• There’s a strong burning smell
• The washer is more than ten years old and broken in a complex way

Then it’s time to call a qualified technician. Motor replacement involves electrical wiring and mechanical parts—and safety matters.:contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}

How Much Might a Repair Cost?

On average, fixing a washer—including motor repair or replacement—runs between $120 and $415 USD, often around $265. Service calls and labor can add another $100–$175 per hour.:contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}

If the washer is over ten years old and the motor repair is expensive, it may make more sense to invest in a newer, more energy-efficient machine.:contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}

Can You Prevent Motor Problems?

Yes—some daily habits help:

• Don’t overload the washer—leave at least 6 inches at the top.:contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
• Balance the load evenly each time you wash.:contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
• Let the machine rest between heavy cycles so the motor cools down.:contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
• Clean filters and lint screens regularly so the motor doesn’t overheat.:contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}
• Inspect drive belts and replace them if worn.:contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}

Real People’s Stories (From Reddit)

Here’s what DIY folks say:

“We literally replaced ours (broken belt)…it was less than an hour.”:contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}

“I have seen many broken washers. I have never seen a motor that went bad. It’s probably the belt.”:contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}

Bottom line: the motor itself was rarely the direct culprit—belts, switches, or imbalance often were.

So What’s the Checklist?

Here’s a quick decision guide:

• ✅ Won’t spin or makes odd noises? → Do some basic checks: balance, load size, belt condition
• ✅ Still humming without spinning? → Test pulley and internal wiring, check brushes
• ✅ Damage, smell, or no run at all? → Likely motor windings or mechanical failure—call a pro
• ✅ Older machine or frequent issues? → Consider replacing rather than costly repair

Final Thoughts

Electric motors are solid workhorses, but they don’t last forever—especially if overloaded, imbalanced, or strained. Most failures stem from brushes, belts, or clogged bearings—not the motor winding itself. If you’re handy, you can do some DIY, but safety first.

If the repair cost climbs, or the washer is aging out, ditch the repair and get a newer model—modern machines are more efficient and often backed by better support. Still unsure? Share your washer’s brand or model number and what it’s doing—I can help you diagnose further!