How to Fix A Washer That Shakes and Moves

All front-load washing machines have shock absorbers that are used to dampen the tub movement in the spin cycle. The shock absorbers or struts are attached to the base frame and to the outer tub and you will need to remove the front panel or the rear panel to access them. When shock absorbers weaken or become damaged, unbalanced loads will cause the washer to shake or move and the machine will often make a loud banging sound during the spin cycle. If the symptom is not corrected, it can lead to damage of other components. Inspect the shocks for signs of broken attachments, leaked fluids or a weakened dampening action and replace both shocks if worn. Remove power from the appliance before attempting this repair.

The suspension springs on your washing machine are used to either suspend the tub assembly from the cabinet or to stabilize the tub assembly to the washer base. They also absorb the vibration of the wash basket while the machine is in the spin cycle. Occasionally these springs will become damaged, stretched or detached which can cause excessive noise and vibration from your washer during the spin cycle. You will need to remove the top or front panel of the washing machine to gain access to the suspension springs. Inspect for stretching or damage and ensure that they are securely attached at both ends. Use caution when replacing the springs as they are under tension and always wear the proper protective clothing. We recommend that you replace all of the suspension springs if any are determined to be defective.

Some washing machines have a snubber ring that helps dampen vibration from your washing machine during the spin cycle. It is normally located at the bottom of the machine, and provides a cushion between the base and the tub support assembly. The snubber ring/tub wear pads are often made of hard plastic, although some damper pads are made of lubricated felt. Both styles will wear with normal use and eventually can allow the tub to move excessively. In extreme conditions they can wear to the point where the metal base contacts the metal tub support and the washer will shake uncontrollably. Remove the front panel to inspect the snubber and look for signs of a white dust on the plastic style, or dislodged or dry pads on the felt style. You will need to remove the tub springs first before you can replace the snubber or damper. The suspension springs are under tension so you should always wear protective clothing when attempting this repair.

Some models of top-load washers use tub dampening straps to cushion the movement of the tub during the spin cycle. There are four straps attached to the top of the tub and to each corner of the cabinet. These straps are made of rubber and can fail with normal use. When the straps become stretched or damaged, the tub may contact the cabinet during the spin cycle, causing the washer to shake or move and creating a loud banging sound. Continuous large loads and excessive use will create more strain and cause premature failure of the straps. You will need to raise the top of the washing machine to access the straps and determine whether they are causing the noise you are hearing. If any of the straps appear visually damaged or worn, they will need to be replaced. We recommend replacing all four straps at the same time.

The leveling legs on a washing machine are used to support the washer and are adjustable so that the machine can be leveled. Some models use four threaded legs and others use two threaded legs and two self leveling rear legs. If your washer is shaking or vibrating during the spin cycle you should first verify that the machine is level and sitting firmly on all four legs. Verify that any of the threaded legs have the locking nuts tightened securely and that the rubber feet are in good condition. If any of the leveling legs or rubber feet are missing or damaged, they need to be replaced.