A washing machine that refuses to spin or agitate can be frustrating and inconvenient. At ARC Center, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing washing machines, ensuring they function optimally. In this article, we’ll explore the most common reasons why your washer may not be spinning or agitating and what can be done to fix it.

1. Worn or Broken Drive Belt

The drive belt is responsible for turning the drum in your washing machine. Over time, this belt can wear out, fray, or break, leading to a washer that does not spin or agitate.

Symptoms of a Faulty Drive Belt:

• The washing machine drum does not move at all.
• You hear a humming sound, but no motion.
• The belt appears visibly worn, loose, or broken upon inspection.

Solution:

• Unplug the washer and remove the back or top panel (depending on the model) to access the belt.
• Check for wear, cracks, or complete breakage.
• Replace the belt if necessary, ensuring it is properly aligned with the pulleys.

2. Broken Motor Coupling

The motor coupling connects the washer’s motor to the transmission. This component is designed to break if the washer is overloaded, preventing damage to the motor.

Symptoms of a Broken Motor Coupling:

• The washing machine fills with water but does not spin or agitate.
• A rattling noise comes from the base of the washer.
• No movement of the agitator or drum.

Solution:

• Disconnect power and water supply before accessing the motor coupling.
• Inspect the coupling for visible damage, such as cracks or complete breakage.
• Replace the motor coupling with a compatible part for your washer model.

3. Faulty Lid Switch (Top Load Washers)

For top-loading washing machines, the lid switch acts as a safety feature. If the switch is defective, the machine will not spin or agitate as it thinks the lid is open.

Symptoms of a Faulty Lid Switch:

• The washer does not advance to the spin cycle.
• There is no sound when the lid is closed.
• The washer stops mid-cycle.

Solution:

• Open and close the lid while listening for a clicking sound.
• If no click is heard, inspect the lid switch for damage.
• Replace the lid switch if it is faulty.

4. Worn-Out Transmission

The transmission is responsible for shifting between the agitation and spin cycles. If it is worn or faulty, the washer may fail to perform these functions.

Symptoms of a Bad Transmission:

• The washer agitates but does not spin, or vice versa.
• A grinding noise during the wash cycle.
• Oil leaks under the washing machine.

Solution:

• Diagnose the issue by manually turning the agitator to check for resistance.
• If the transmission is failing, replacement is necessary, which is best handled by a professional repair technician.

5. Defective Control Board

The control board sends electrical signals to various components of the washer. If it malfunctions, it may fail to signal the machine to spin or agitate.

Symptoms of a Faulty Control Board:

• The washer does not respond to cycle selections.
• No error codes are displayed, but the machine remains unresponsive.
• Random start/stop behavior.

Solution:

• Unplug the washer and inspect the control board for burn marks or loose connections.
• If damaged, the control board may need reprogramming or replacement.

Get Expert Washing Machine Repairs with ARC Center

At ARC Center, we specialize in both onsite diagnosis and workshop testing to ensure accurate assessment and cost estimation. Once we have identified the fault, we provide an estimated cost for client approval before proceeding with repairs.

For professional assistance with repairing or servicing your Defy, Samsung, Bosch, Speed Queen, LG, Smeg, Whirlpool, or AEG washing machine, contact us at:

📍 Cape Town: 063 617 6968
📍 Randburg (Johannesburg & Pretoria): 079 232 8681

Let ARC Center help you restore your washing machine to optimal working condition!