Kenmore Elite washer not spinning

Common reasons your Kenmore Elite washer is not spinning

The most common reasons your Kenmore Elite washer is not spinning are a malfunctioning electronic control board, broken motor or a jammed door lock assembly.

58% of the time it's the
Electronic Control Board

28% of the time it's the
Motor

8% of the time it's the
Door Lock Assembly

6% of the time it's the
Something else

Most common repairs needed to fix a Kenmore Elite washer

Electronic Control Board Replacement

A malfunctioning electronic control board can lead to various failures in a washer. This is because the board serves as the brain of the washer, controlling crucial components such as the water valve, drive motor, drain pump, and cycles. If the electronic control board fails, the washer may not power up or display the cycle status. Additionally, it might fail to fill, agitate, spin, or drain. In some cases, a shorted board may emit a burning smell.

How to replace the electronic control board in a washer

Motor Replacement

A broken washer motor will prevent the spin basket from rotating or agitating, and can also cause a variety of other issues that affect the washer’s ability to function properly. Signs that the motor is wearing out include unusual noises during operation, such as grinding or squealing sounds. The washer may also exhibit erratic spinning or agitation, with clothes not being properly rinsed or still soaking wet after the spin cycle. Additionally, a worn-out motor may lead to the washer not completing its cycles, stopping abruptly, or not starting at all. Burnt smells or overheating around the motor area can be indicative of internal problems. In some cases, visible damage to the motor itself may be apparent.

How to replace the motor in a washer

Door Lock Assembly Replacement

When a washer door lock assembly is jammed, you may encounter difficulty in opening or closing the washer door. The door may not latch properly, leading to issues in starting or completing a wash cycle. The washer might display an error code indicating a door lock problem. During operation, the door lock may make unusual clicking sounds or fail to engage, preventing the washer from starting. Additionally, if there is a malfunction, the door lock indicator light may not illuminate as expected. Users might notice water remaining in the drum even after the wash cycle has finished, indicating a potential problem with the door lock assembly preventing proper drainage.

How to replace the door lock assembly on a washer

What to expect when you experience a Kenmore Elite washer not spinning issue

How is the not spinning problem fixed?

Correcting most not spinning problems usually involves replacing the electronic control board, motor or door lock assembly. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

Sears Home Services recommendations for a washer that is not spinning

When the washer is not spinning it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of washer failures.

What to look out for with a washer not spinning diagnosis

Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your washer problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

Kenmore Elite Washing Machine Won’t Spin Troubleshooting

When your Kenmore Elite washing machine won’t spin, it typically displays an error code that points to the cause of the problem. You may see the UE error code that indicates an unbalanced load when your Kenmore Elite washing machine won’t spin. Resolve the problem and clear that error code by untangling and repositioning the clothes in the washing machine spin basket. Run a Drain & Spin cycle in the washer to spin out the clothes.

Some failures that prevent your Kenmore Elite washing machine from spinning won’t always display an error code. A failure of the main electronic control board is a common issue when your Kenmore Elite washing machine won’t spin. You can sometimes resolve that problem by resetting the main electronic control board by following these steps:

Unplug the washing machine power cord to completely disconnect electrical power.
Leave the power cord unplugged for 2 minutes.
Plug the power cord back in to restore electrical power and reboot the main electronic control board in the washing machine.

After resetting the main electronic control board, the washing machine may spin properly.

Other problems that will prevent a Kenmore Elite washer from spinning include:

Defective door lock assembly.
Faulty drive motor.
Bad motor tachometer.
Wiring failure.

When you’re unable to find and fix the problem yourself when your Kenmore Elite washing machine won’t spin, schedule washer repair service and we’ll send a Sears Home Services technician to your home to repair the washing machine.

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Glossary Terms

What is Hard Water?

Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. It contrasts with soft water, which has lower concentrations of these minerals.

What is a Washing Machine Pedestal?

A washing machine pedestal is a platform that raises the washer off the ground, providing easier access to the appliances and often includes additional storage space such as drawers.

What is a Washer Tub?

A washer tub is the interior part of a washing machine where clothes are placed for washing, typically made of stainless steel, plastic, or porcelain-coated metal, designed to hold water and withstand the agitation or spinning during the wash cycle.

What is Fabric Softener?

Fabric softener is a laundry additive used to soften and freshen clothing, reduce static cling, and make fabrics feel smoother.