Washing Machine Not Spinning
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Quick answer: First redistribute the load and make sure the washer actually drained — a washer that can’t drain won’t spin. Then check the lid switch (top load) or door lock (front load), followed by the drive belt, direct-drive motor coupling and clutch (PartSelect).
If you see an unbalanced code on an LG, see the LG UE guide. If water is left in the drum, start with Washer Not Draining.
Test order: easiest & free first
- Rebalance the loadFREE · 2 min
Spread wet items evenly; a single heavy item or tangled load can stop spin. - Confirm it drainsFREE · 10 min
If water remains, follow Washer Not Draining first. - Run a spin-only cycleFREE · 10 min
Tells you whether spin works on its own. - Check the lid switch / door lockMULTIMETER
PartSelect: if the door lock switch doesn’t register as locked, the washer won’t agitate or spin; digital models may show a fault code. - Check the drive beltINSPECT
On belt-drive models, look for a worn, loose or broken belt (PartSelect). - Check the direct-drive motor couplingINSPECT
Some top loaders. PartSelect: a common symptom of a failing coupling is that the washer fills and drains normally but won’t agitate or spin. - Clutch, wax motor or control$$
PartSelect also lists the clutch assembly and the wax motor (lid lock on some top loaders).
⚠ Safety: Unplug the washer before opening the cabinet. Never bypass a lid switch or door lock — they stop the drum spinning with the door open.
Parts to check
| Part | Part number | |
|---|---|---|
| Lid switch / door lock | Look up by your model number | Check price [PLACEHOLDER – no affiliate link] |
| Drive belt | Look up by your model number | Check price [PLACEHOLDER – no affiliate link] |
| Motor coupling | Look up by your model number | Check price [PLACEHOLDER – no affiliate link] |
| Clutch assembly | Look up by your model number | Check price [PLACEHOLDER – no affiliate link] |
We only list part numbers confirmed by a cited source. Parts vary by model, so always look up by your model number at the parts retailer before ordering.
💡 Find your model number: Top loaders: often under the lid or on the back panel. Front loaders: often inside the door rim or on the back.
Watch it done
Video by RepairClinic.com on YouTube. FixCode Guide isn't affiliated with this channel.