Kenmore washers are reliable, but common problems can still happen. If your washer won’t spin, drain, agitate, or starts making loud noises, shaking, or leaking, this guide breaks down the 7 most common Kenmore washer issues and what usually causes them. A Kenmore washer error code guide at the end helps you quickly diagnose electronic problems.
Kenmore Washer Won’t Spin
Lid Switch (Top-Load Models)
- Prevents spinning when the lid is open (safety feature)
- Test for continuity with a
multimeter - Replace the switch if there is no continuity
Drive Belt
- Connects the motor to the transmission
- Inspect for looseness, wear, or breakage- it should be tight
- If it is loose on the pulley or broken, tighten or replace
Replacement Belts are available on Amazon for around $8, Click here.
Note: we may receive a small commission from your purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Motor Coupling (Top-Load Models)
- Links the washer’s motor to the transmission
- Designed to fail if the washer is overloaded
- Also will fail over time with use
- Replace if cracked or broken
Motor Control Board (some newer models)
- Control Board supplies power to the motor
- If faulty, the washer will not work properly, if it works at all
- Check for burned components and verify power output
- Replace if not sending power to the motor
transmission Clutch (top load models)
- Clutch makes connection between tub and transmission
- Helps the tub gradually reach spin speed
- Worn clutches prevent spinning
- Not repairable — must be replaced
A clutch kit is available on Amazon for around $15-30, depending upon your model number. Double check before ordering.
Note: we may receive a small commission from your purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Rotor And Stator Assembly
- Rotor and Stator work together to create an electromagnetic force strong enough to spin the tub in both directions
- Inspect rotor magnets (inside) for damage
- Check the stator windings for defect
- Replace defective components as needed
Amazon carries a Kenmore Washer Rotor Stator sensor for around $35. Double check parts and model number before ordering.
Note: we may receive a small commission from your purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Kenmore Washer Making Loud Noises
Drum Bearing
- Bearing mounted in the center of the outer tub; allows the inner tub to spin smoothly
- Worn seals let water in, causing rusted bearings
- Produces a loud roaring or “airplane taking off” noise
- Complex repair; bearing and outer tub are often replaced together
Replacing this part is one of the more complicated fixes. I suggest you replace the bearing and outer tub at the same time. $25-35 on Amazon
Drive Pulley
- Can become cracked, bent, loose, or worn
- Causes banging or squealing noises
- Inspect and replace if damaged– $20 on Amazon
Drive Belt
- Worn or damaged belts can snap or slip
- Creates loud squealing or slapping sounds
- Replace if visibly worn or broken
Clutch
- Failing clutch can cause grinding noises during or after spin
- Sounds like metal-to-metal contact
- Faulty clutch may also keep the washer from spinning at all
- Not repairable — must be replaced
Clutch Assembly Kits begin around $18 on Amazon. Double Check model number and click here. Drive Belts are around $8 on Amazon. Click Here.
Note: we may receive a small commission from your purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Drain Pump
- Noisy during draining indicates drain pump failure
- Drain pumps can become faulty when filled with debris, or due to damage
- Access the drain pump to clear it of any clogs
- Replace pump if noise continues after cleaning
Drain Pump Replacements begins around $20 on Amazon. Double Check model number and click here.
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Kenmore Washer Won’t Agitate
Many agitation problems are caused by the same drive components responsible for spin issues, since both functions rely on the motor and transmission.
Drive Block or Bell (top load models)
- Connects the agitator to the transmission
- A worn out block causes transmission shaft to turn while the agitator stays still
- Inspect for stripped or worn splines
- Replace if damaged or worn
Drive Belt
- Transfers power from the motor to the transmission
- Loose (from pulley) or broken belts prevent agitation
- Inspect and replace if worn or damaged
Motor Coupling
- Links the motor to the transmission
- Designed to fail if the washer is overloaded
- Inspect for cracks or breakage and replace if faulty
Kenmore Washer Won’t Drain
Drain Pump Or Drain Hose
- Debris can block the pump or hose and stop draining
- Remove and inspect for clogs
- Clean thoroughly if blocked
- Check the hose for cracks or damage and replace if needed
Drain Pumps are available on Amazon for $20 click here. Drain hoses run around $20 for the assembly. Click here.
Coin Trap or Filter (select models)
- Catches small objects before they reach the drain pump
- A clogged trap will prevent proper draining
- Remove and clean to restore normal operation
Washer Shakes or Vibrates excessively
Shock Absorbers
- Worn shocks can no longer absorb tub movement
- Inspect for leaks, cracks, or damage
- Replace damaged shocks; replacing all at once helps ensure even wear
Suspension Rods
- Support and stabilize the tub during wash cycles
- Broken or worn rods cause excessive shaking
- Inspect for visible damage and replace as needed
A suspension rod replacement kit is less than $30 on Amazon.
Counter Balance Springs
- Help keep the tub balanced during operation
- Broken springs cause strong vibration and shaking
- Inspect springs and mounting points for rust or damage
- Replace any faulty springs and rusted frame connections
Remember to check the frame where the spring attaches. If there is rust on the frame, replace that as well. $7 and up on Amazon.
Note: we may receive a small commission from your purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Leveling Leg
- Keep the washer stable on the floor
- Loose or uneven legs cause vibration
- Adjust and lock legs securely to level the washer
Kenmore Washer Filling Slowly
Water Inlet Valve
- Controls water flow into the washer during fill cycles
- Faulty valves can cause slow filling or no fill
- Clean inlet screens at the hose connections
- Replace the valve if cleaning doesn’t fix the issue
Also keep in mind that this valve requires good water pressure to work right. So, first check that your water pressure is adequate.
Low Water Pressure
- Inlet valves require at least 20 PSI to operate properly
- Check household water pressure at the supply valves
- Fully open hot and cold water supply valves
Washer fill problems can trigger error codes like LF or F20, indicating a slow fill or water supply issue that may require checking the inlet valve or water pressure.
Kenmore Washer Leaking water
Drain Pump
- Can leak if damaged, cracked, or hoses become loose.
- Cannot be repaired; must be replaced.
- See above for additional details.
Replacement parts Start around $25 on Amazon.
Tub bearings Seal
- Torn tub seal can cause water leaks from around the seal.
- Leaking seal can risk damage to tub bearings, also.
- Replace both tub seal and bearings if leak is found.
- Replacements on Amazon $25 for tub seal and bearing kit. click here
Note: we may receive a small commission from your purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Drain Hose
- Check for leaks, especially between pump and back of machine.
- Replace if damaged; hoses available on Amazon (see link above)
Water inlet valves
- Most common cause of water leaks.
- Inspect valves at the back of the washer under the top cover.
- Replace if leaking. $15-22 on Amazon click here.
Kenmore Washer Error Codes explained
This reference table of common Kenmore washing machine error codes and their causes. (Codes vary slightly by model, but this covers the most widely used Kenmore / Kenmore Elite front-load and top-load platforms.)
Read:Repair guide for the Error Codes On Kenmore Washing Machines. Click Here.
| Error Code | Cause / Meaning |
|---|---|
| F01 | Main control board EEPROM failure (control board memory issue). |
| LF | Washer is taking too long to fill with water (water supply or inlet valve problem). |
| Ld, F02, F21 | Washer is taking too long to drain (clogged pump, filter, or drain hose). |
| uL | Unbalanced laundry load detected. |
| oL | Washer overloaded with too many clothes. |
| Sd / Sud | Excess detergent or oversudsing detected. |
| lid | Lid is not closed when attempting to start cycle. |
| dL | Door or lid failed to lock properly. |
| dU / F29 | Door or lid failed to unlock. |
| FL / F27 | High water level or overflow detected. |
| Er | Power failure occurred during cycle. |
| CE | Communication error between motor control and main control board. |
| CA / Cl | Machine may be overloaded or cycle aborted due to load issues. |
| Or | General operation failure. |
| LS / F26 | Lid or door switch malfunction. |
| DE / F22 | Door locking mechanism failure. |
| LE | Washer motor or system locked / unable to run. |
✅ Important Notes
- Kenmore appliances are built by multiple manufacturers (Whirlpool, LG, Frigidaire, etc.), so exact meanings can vary slightly by model.
- Many drain-related codes (F02, F21, Ld) typically point to clogged filters, blocked hoses, or a failing drain pump.
- Door lock, motor control, and control board errors often require electrical testing or part replacement.
CL I know means child lock, but how do I turn it off to open machine?
Look closer on interface panel. You should see Child Lock
I have a Top Loading High Efficiency Kenmore Washer.
Model 110.25132410
I started a load and the green wash, rinse, spin lights all came on; the lid locked and I was unable to unlock it with the START/PAUSE button. The cycle ran and the clothes seemed fine at the end but the green lights have never gone out.
Hard to say, why lights stay ON. Maybe this is how it should be?
It has never done that before.
They stay on even when the washer is not in use. Also the unable to use the START/PAUSE feature to unlock after cycle has started.
I dont have answer, sorry
I have a Kenmore front loader Model 402-4903 that is working fine but the last few times I’ve done a load, I find the soap dispenser filled with water. Any ideas or suggestions?
maybe this is how it should be
Kenmore front load model 970-c42162-00 doesn’t spin. It fills and drains but doesn’t spin
Eugene, we have a Kenmore Elite top load washer. It will fill but when it comes time to drain and spin, the drain part you only hear a faint noise and no draining. Fills fine. Thoughts?
Well, remove and check drain pump then. It is accessible from the back of the washer
I have a Kenmore series 100 washing machine it will not rinse/spin it works fine up until this rinse cycle the light flash and it does nothing it stuck on that cycle it make a noise like it’s trying to rinse but it doesn’t hat could be the problem
Does it drain just fine? If yes, then you need to check motor position sensor on the motor ( i assume you have a front load machine with a direct drive motor)
S600 Series Kenmore washer (Top loading). Inner & Outer drum seem to sit very low when filled with water & wet clothes. During a “bulky/deep fill” load today it sounded like the bottom of the drum was scraping against something in the bottom. Where do I begin to look?
Check suspension rods on each corner. Also, lift the front of the machine up and look underneath, to make sure nothing caught between the motor pulley and belt
I have a 600 series Kenmore washer machine it’s not draining it shows drn on the screen
Check drain filter
We have an 8 year old Kenmore Elite front load washer. It is now making so much noise and it sounds like the drum is loose. The washer will work however until the rinse cycle when it gets stuck at what it’s doing when there are 11 minutes left. Eventually it kicks out a UE error. Any suggestions?
Open the washer door and move the drum up and down. Does it have excessive movement? if yes, then drum spider is cracked or drum bearing are worn
Hi Eugene, I have a Kenmore 21302 HE top-load low-water washer. I ken it making a noise when draining, didnae think anything of it. But then it didnae go to the spin cycle. I hae hit the start/cancel button & it jumped to the spin cycle, only to stay there & do nothing til I hit the start button again & it drained. No spinning. So when it seemed done. It wouldnae jump to done, so I hit cancel. I popped the lid open & the clothes were drookit. But no water inside. Just the clothes were drookit. I dinnae ken what to make of it.
I have a Kenmore Elite Front Load.
Only the power button works. There is a chime sound when any other button is pushed. The error message “CL” flashes on and off. The machine failed on the “Auto Soak” mode.
As i know, CL is not an error code. CL means Child Lock. Did somebody accidentally turn this ON?
I have a top load Kenmore washer, three years old. From day one my dark clothes come out with what looks like soap residue. I clean the washer with afresh once a month, but I still have to run the dark wash through a rinse and spin cycle every time. What is causing this.
It is calcium deposits on the outer side of the drum. You can not clean it properly without taking it apart.
I’ve had the same problem with lint in clots on dark clothes and having to run extra rinse cycles for almost every wash. Washer uses filtered rain water. This has been a problem from day one. I’m not saving electricity nor water. Calcium deposits? In my estimation this high efficiency product falls far from the hype. Would not recommend it, for sure.
Is this top-load machine? Then yes, its calcium deposits mixed with some rust. Its not easy to clean the outer side of the drum if you have them
Yes, I do have a top load machine. How do I run the diagnostic mode?
You can find the service manual on the left inner side (between drum and the washer) , there will be information on how to enter diagnostic mode
Hi Eugene,
I have a high efficiency washer Kenmore MOD. 110 26002010.
all controls works fine. when you press the bottom “start” no water comes into the machine and I can hear a click and the motor trying to start but stops and I hear the click and the motor trying to start again and then stops but nothing happens.
any idea what should be wrong?
thanks,
You have a top-load machine. Lift the front of the washer up a little bit, to make sure nothing got stuck between the belt and pulley. If everything ok, then you need to run diagnostic mode to check error codes. Depends on the error code you can figure out whats wrong with your machine.
Hi There,
We have a Kenmore Front Loading washer Model: 592-49127. It makes a VERY loud but short lived banging noise at the end of a spin cycle. Clothes come out fine. We bought the machine in Jan/2013 and are wondering if we should try to fix it or are we looking at needing something new. Thanks.
Not sure, what it can be
Eugene, we have a Kenmore Model 100 top load washer that won’t turn on. There is a very faint click after pressing start, but that’s it. We’ve checked the breaker, but aren’t sure what else to do. Any ideas? Thanks.
Main control board failure
I have a front load washer Kenmore model 40029900.
I keep the filter clean and have never had trouble with it until yesterday when it did not start. Any ideas? The power cord looks fine and there is power to the outlet.
Thank you, Patricia
Does it make any sound? Lights comes up on the display?
Hi Eugene, our washing machine a is all better now. It drains perfectly. However we do have a Kenmore Elite dryer that doesn’t shut off when the clothes are dry. The lights go off and it beeps indicating its done but it continues to spin. I either have to leave the door open or unplug it until the next load. Can you advise what the problem could be?
Make sure Wrinkle Prevention is turn OFF
Once my washer (Kenmore model 49157 – Direct Drive) reaches max RPMs in the spin cycle (hi, med or low) it makes a loud screeching sound. The water drains normally. The level shows that the washer is level on the ground. The two baskets do not separate from each other at all. Everything appears to be in fine shape aside from the loud sound near then end of the spin cycle. Any thoughts?
Hard to say what is it, but if you could make a video with that screeching sound, it will be much easier to understand whats the problem.
My Kenmore elite HE front load washer is leaking water intermittently from either the middle or the rear of the machine and I haven’t been able to determine where it’s coming from. It’s not making any unusual noise and it doesn’t seem to be leaking while it’s filling. Any thoughts?
Check these: Inlet valves, Drum bearings, Drain Hose or Drain Pump. If its an intermittent issue, then you need to keep an eye on it, during wash cycle. its only one way to do it ))