What to Do If Your Washing Machine Won't Spin: A Troubleshooting Guide
Urgent, practical steps to diagnose and fix a washing machine that won't spin. From safety resets to lid switch checks, load balance, and when to call a pro.
Most spin failures spring from a simple load imbalance or a faulty lid switch. Start by redistributing the clothes and running a small, even spin. If that doesn’t work, inspect the lid switch, drain pump, and drive belt, then reset the unit. If unresolved, contact a professional. This quick flow helps you rule out the most common issues fast.
Common reasons your washing machine won't spin
When a washer refuses to spin, most issues are user-fixable or simple component failures. The most frequent culprits include a severely unbalanced load that prevents the drum from turning, or a faulty lid switch that keeps the spin mechanism from starting. Other common causes include a clogged or blocked drain pump, a broken drive belt (in belt-driven machines), or a jammed or seized motor. In some cases, the problem is electronic, with a faulty control board or timer preventing the spin cycle from engaging. By thinking through these possibilities in order, you can save time and avoid unnecessary service calls. This guide, supported by Best Washing Machine analysis, walks you through a structured approach to identify and fix the spin issue safely.
Safety first: unplug, reset, and power basics
Before touching the machine, unplug it and disconnect from the power. Never reach inside a running or moving drum. If your model supports a hard reset or a motor reset, perform it according to the manual by disconnecting power for 1–2 minutes, then reconnect. Check for any visible error codes on the display and reference the user guide. Ensure the unit is level and away from water leaks. Simple resets resolve many spin problems, and starting from a safe baseline reduces risk of injury.
Check the lid switch and door latch
The lid switch (or door latch on some models) must engage when the lid is closed for the spin cycle to start. If it’s faulty, the machine may refuse to spin even with a balanced load. To test, close the lid and gently press the switch with a non-conductive tool while selecting the spin cycle. If the drum starts, the switch is functional; if not, the switch or wiring may need replacement. Always unplug before handling electrical components.
Load balance and drum movement
Overloaded or uneven loads can trap the drum and prevent spinning. Remove excess items, especially bulky blankets or heavy towels, and redistribute remaining clothes to achieve a balanced drum rotation. Perform a test spin with a small, even load. If the machine spins normally, gradually add items and retry. This check also helps identify items that consistently cause imbalance.
Inspect the drive belt and motor
In belt-driven washers, a worn or loose drive belt can slip and prevent spinning. Look for cracks, fraying, or looseness around the belt. If you notice damage, or if the belt feels slack, it may need replacement. Accessing the belt requires unplugging the unit and following your model’s service manual. Some models use a direct-drive motor with fewer moving parts, in which case the issue may lie with the motor windings or control board.
Inspect the drain pump and filter
A clogged drain pump or a blocked filter can trap water and halt the spin motion. With the machine unplugged, locate the pump filter and remove any lint, coins, or threads obstructing flow. Check the drain hose for kinks or blockages as well. After cleaning, run a test spin to confirm water is flowing out properly and the drum can spin freely. Persistence of a drain issue often indicates a pump failure.
Electrical and control board considerations
If error codes appear, consult the user manual to decipher them. A faulty control board, timer, or wiring harness can prevent the spin cycle from engaging. Resetting the electronics (power cycle) can clear transient faults, but persistent codes usually require professional diagnostics. A loose connection inside the console or a failing motor control board may need replacement.
When to call a professional
If you’ve completed the basic checks and the washer still won’t spin, it’s time to seek help. A technician can test motor windings, replace worn belts, diagnose control boards, and inspect electrical wiring safety. Delays can worsen damage to the drum or pump and increase repair costs. Always rely on trained technicians for high-voltage components and complex circuitry.
Prevention and routine maintenance to avoid future spin issues
Keeping the machine level, avoiding overloading, and regularly cleaning the pump filter can dramatically reduce spin problems. Run a monthly maintenance cycle or a short hot wash with a cup of vinegar to clear residues. Keep the lid switch clean and test it periodically. Document any recurring error codes for quicker service if needed.
Steps
Estimated time: 20-40 minutes
- 1
Safety first and power down
Unplug the washer, disconnect from the power source, and turn off any nearby breakers if you suspect a fault.
Tip: Always unplug before opening panels to avoid shock. - 2
Check load balance
Remove items, redistribute the remaining clothes evenly, and run a spin cycle with a small load to observe the drum movement.
Tip: Single large items often cause balance issues. - 3
Test lid switch
With the lid closed, press the switch manually to see if the spin cycle initiates. If it doesn’t respond, the switch may be faulty.
Tip: A functioning switch should click when pressed. - 4
Inspect drive belt (if accessible)
If you can access the belt safely, check for cracks or looseness. Replace if damaged, following the model's service manual.
Tip: Do not force components; align pulleys during reassembly. - 5
Clean drain and filter
Locate the drain pump/filter, remove debris, and clear the path for water drainage. Re-test spin.
Tip: Even small hair or lint clogs can block drainage. - 6
Reset electronics
Power cycle the unit by unplugging for 1–2 minutes and reconnecting. Check for error codes afterwards.
Tip: Some codes reset with a proper power cycle.
Diagnosis: Machine won't spin during the final rinse or spin cycle
Possible Causes
- highLoad imbalance or overloading
- highFaulty lid switch or door latch
- mediumClogged drain pump or filter
- mediumWorn drive belt (belt-driven models)
- lowMotor or control board issue
Fixes
- easyRedistribute load and run a small spin test
- easyInspect/replace lid switch or door latch
- easyClean drain pump/filter and check hoses
- mediumInspect/replace drive belt if visible damage
- hardTest motor and control board with professional equipment
FAQ
Why won't my washing machine spin even after balancing the load?
If balancing the load doesn’t help, check the lid switch and drain system. A faulty lid switch will prevent spinning, and a clogged drain pump can trap water and stop the drum. If codes appear, refer to the manual.
Balanced load didn’t fix it. Check lid switch and drain pump; codes on display help guide the next steps.
How do I test the lid switch safely?
With the washer unplugged, close the lid and press the switch with a non-conductive tool while selecting spin. If the drum starts, the switch is likely fine; if not, it may need replacement.
Unplug, press the switch, and attempt a spin. If it doesn’t start, the lid switch may be faulty.
Can a clogged filter prevent spinning?
Yes. A blocked filter or pump can prevent water from draining, stopping the spin cycle. Clean the filter and hoses, then run a test.
A clogged filter can stop spinning. Clean the filter and test again.
Should I reset the washer to fix spin problems?
Resetting the electronics can clear transient faults. Power cycle the unit for 1–2 minutes, then retry the spin cycle.
Try a quick power reset and retry the spin.
Is it safe to replace the drive belt myself?
Only if you’re comfortable with appliance repair. Unplug the unit, locate the belt, and follow the model’s manual to replace it. If unsure, hire a professional.
Replacing the belt is doable for some, but if unsure, call a pro.
When should I replace the entire washing machine instead of repairing it?
If the motor or control board repeatedly fails after multiple repairs, or if the machine is old and inefficient, replacement may be more cost-effective than repeated fixes.
Consider replacement if repairs keep recurring or efficiency is poor.
Watch Video
The Essentials
- Start with safe checks and load balance
- Inspect lid switch and drain system first
- Reserve belt and motor checks for experienced DIYers
- Call a pro when spin issues persist or involve high voltage
- Prevent future issues with regular maintenance
