Washing Machine Making Noise or Vibrating: Causes and Repair
Learn why it happens, what you can safely check and how our technicians repair it. Visit from ₹500.
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About: noise & vibration in washing machines
Some sound is normal, but loud banging, grinding, squealing or violent shaking means something is wrong. The type of sound is a useful clue: a rhythmic thump suggests an unbalanced load, a rumbling or roaring sound points to bearings, and a squeal often means a belt or pulley issue.
Ignoring noise can turn a small repair into an expensive one. A worn bearing, for example, can damage the drum shaft if the machine is used for months with the fault.
Common causes
Several different faults can cause the same symptom. These are the ones we see most often.
Unbalanced load
Clothes bunched on one side make the drum swing during spin, causing thumping and walking.
Machine not level
Uneven feet make the machine rock. On front-load machines the feet must be firm and the lock nuts tight.
Transit bolts not removed
New front-load machines are shipped with bolts that lock the drum. If they are left in place after installation, the machine shakes violently.
Worn drum bearings
A deep rumble or grinding that grows louder at high spin speed is the classic sign of bearing failure.
Loose counterweights or worn suspension
Springs, shock absorbers and concrete or cast counterweights keep the drum steady. When they loosen or wear, vibration increases.
Foreign objects
Coins, keys and bra wires between the drum and tub create sharp clanking or scraping sounds.
Worn belt or pulley
A dry, cracked or loose belt squeals during start-up or spin.
What you can safely check yourself
Try these simple checks before you call. If the problem remains, stop and book an inspection.
Check 1
Stop the machine and rearrange the load so heavy items are spread evenly.
Check 2
Check that the machine is level using a spirit level and adjust the feet.
Check 3
On a new front-load machine, confirm that all transit bolts at the back have been removed.
Check 4
Check pockets and the drum for coins or metal objects.
Check 5
If the noise continues with an empty drum, book an inspection.
How we fix it
- Level and stabilise the machine
- Replace drum bearings and seals
- Replace shock absorbers, springs and tighten counterweights
- Remove foreign objects from the tub
- Replace the belt or pulley
- Remove transit bolts correctly
The exact repair depends on your brand and model. You get a clear quote after inspection, and the work starts only after you approve it. Indicative prices are on the price list.
We repair this problem on all major brands
Frequently asked questions
Why does my washing machine shake so much during spin?
The most common reasons are an unbalanced load, an unlevel floor, worn shock absorbers or transit bolts that were never removed.
What does a grinding noise from the drum mean?
A grinding or roaring noise that increases with speed typically means the drum bearings have worn out. Early repair avoids damage to the shaft.
Is it safe to keep using a noisy washing machine?
A minor imbalance noise is harmless, but grinding, banging or smoke smell are warning signs. Stop using the machine and call us.
Can bearings be replaced at home?
Yes. Bearing replacement is a technical job that needs the tub to be opened, but our technicians can handle it, and we explain the cost before we start.
Related problems
Book a washing machine technician today
Call us any day from Monday to Sunday, 8 AM to 8 PM. Visit charges start from ₹500. Booking is by phone only, so just call and tell us the brand and the problem.