Washer won't spin?

Most of the time it's the load, the lid switch, or a drain problem, and two of those three you can check in five minutes without tools.

Not sure which one it is? Snap your washer and we’ll narrow it down.

Is there still water in the drum?

A washer that won't drain won't spin either. Washer won't drain

Likely causes

  1. Unbalanced or overloaded drum

    Most commonEasy DIY

    Stops mid-spin, thumps, or spins briefly then gives up; worse with towels, bedding, or one heavy item.

  2. Water not draining (clog or drain pump)

    Most commonModerate DIY

    Water still in the drum after the cycle; washers won't spin until they drain. On front-loaders, clean the pump filter; check the hose for kinks.

    Part: $40–150 if the pump has failed (about $180–350 installed)

  3. Lid switch or door lock

    CommonModerate DIY

    Everything else works, but it never enters spin; no click when you close the lid; lid-lock light flashing.

    Part: $25–90 (about $120–200 installed)

  4. Worn drive belt or motor coupler

    Less commonModerate DIY

    Motor hums or runs but the drum doesn't turn; burning-rubber smell.

    Part: $10–40

  5. Shifter, clutch, or motor control

    Less commonCall a pro

    On newer top-loaders (e.g. Whirlpool Cabrio), an error code or a "sensing" light that never clears.

Quick checks

Unplug the washer before reaching into the drum, the pump filter, or behind the machine. Have towels ready; pump filters release water.

  1. Redistribute the load and run a drain & spin cycle by itself.
  2. Look inside: is there water left in the drum? If yes, it's a drain problem first.
  3. Close the lid firmly and listen for the switch click. No click points to the lid switch.
  4. Note any error code or flashing light. It narrows things down fast.
Sharpen the read

Diagnose your washer in seconds, for free

No account, no phone number. Fixology’s AI reads your photo and tells you what’s likely wrong, how worried to be, and whether it’s a DIY fix.

Snap one of these:

  • the whole washer, or its display or control panel if it shows an error code
  • the model label, if you can reach it (inside the lid or on the back)

Add a note or more photos next. Nobody calls you.

When to call a pro

Motor hums but the drum won't move, a burning smell, or error codes that return after a reset. For lifespan and upkeep, see the washer guide.

Typical cost: $150–400 including the service call, depending on the part. A diagnostic visit runs $60–120, and many companies waive it if you go ahead with the repair.

After a scan, Fixology can also help you find pros near you.

Related problems

  • Washer won't drain?

    Washer

    Water is left in the drum after the cycle, which is usually a clogged pump filter or a kinked drain hose.

  • Washer won't start?

    Washer

    Nothing happens when you press start: usually the lid or door latch, a control lock, power, or the water supply.

  • Furnace won't heat?

    FurnaceFall

    The furnace runs but the house stays cold, which is usually a clogged filter, a thermostat setting, or an ignition fault.

  • Heat pump not heating?

    Heat pumpFall

    The heat pump runs but the house stays cold, which is usually thermostat settings, a clogged filter, or an iced-over outdoor unit.

Fixology helps you understand your home — it isn't a substitute for a licensed pro on serious gas, electrical, or structural work.