Whirlpool washer not agitating

Common reasons your Whirlpool washer is not agitating

The most common reasons your Whirlpool washer is not agitating are a malfunctioning electronic control board, faulty actuator or a jammed door lock assembly.

63% of the time it's the
Electronic Control Board

13% of the time it's the
Actuator

11% of the time it's the
Door Lock Assembly

13% of the time it's the
Something else

Most common repairs needed to fix a Whirlpool 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

Actuator Replacement

A faulty washer actuator, also known as the shifter assembly, will cause difficulty or inability of the washer drive system to shift between different cycles or modes. This may result in the washing machine getting stuck in one phase of the laundry process, preventing it from progressing through the entire cycle. There may be unusual noises during operation, such as grinding or clicking sounds, which may indicate a malfunctioning actuator. A faulty actuator may also prevent the washer from agitating or spinning properly, affecting the overall washing performance. In some cases, a malfunctioning actuator can lead to the washing machine not completing the cycle or stopping abruptly.

How to replace the actuator on a top-load 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 Whirlpool washer not agitating issue

How is the not agitating problem fixed?

Correcting most not agitating problems usually involves replacing the electronic control board, actuator 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 agitating

When the washer is not agitating 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 agitating 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.

Troubleshooting a Whirlpool Cabrio Washer Not Agitating

When your Whirlpool Cabrio washer is not agitating, it can be quite a hassle. Agitation is a crucial part of the washing process, ensuring clothes are thoroughly cleaned. Understanding the potential causes of this issue can help you address it promptly and efficiently.

Whirlpool Cabrio Washer Not Agitating

If your Whirlpool Cabrio washer is not agitating, there could be several reasons behind it. One common cause is a malfunctioning actuator, also known as the shifter assembly. The actuator is responsible for shifting the washer between different cycles and modes. If it fails, your Whirlpool Cabrio washer won’t agitate properly. You might hear unusual noises like grinding or clicking, which can indicate a problem with the actuator. Replacing the actuator can often resolve these issues and restore proper agitation to your washer.

Another potential issue could be the electronic control board. This component serves as the brain of the washer, controlling various functions, including agitation. If the control board is faulty, it may not send the correct signals to the motor, resulting in the washer not agitating. Inspecting the control board for signs of damage or malfunction can help diagnose the problem. In some cases, the control board may need to be reset or replaced to fix the issue of your Whirlpool Cabrio washer not agitating.

In addition, a defective door lock assembly can also prevent the washer from agitating. If the door lock doesn’t engage properly, the washer won’t start the agitation cycle. Checking the door lock for any signs of wear or damage and ensuring it latches correctly can help solve this issue. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can prevent these problems from occurring, ensuring your Whirlpool Cabrio washer functions smoothly and efficiently.

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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.