A washing machine that shakes violently, vibrates excessively, or walks across the floor during the spin cycle is alarming and can damage your washer, floor, and plumbing connections. While some vibration is normal, excessive shaking indicates a problem that needs to be fixed. The good news? Most washer vibration problems have simple solutions.
An unbalanced load is the #1 cause of washer shaking. When heavy items (towels, jeans, blankets) bunch up on one side of the drum, the washer becomes unbalanced during high-speed spin. Redistribute the load evenly and restart the cycle.
If the washer isn't level front-to-back and side-to-side, it will vibrate excessively during spin. Use a level and adjust the leveling feet until the washer is perfectly level.
New front-load washers have shipping bolts that secure the drum during transport. If these aren't removed before first use, the washer will shake violently. Check the back of the washer for 3-4 large bolts.
Shock absorbers (front loaders) or suspension springs (top loaders) dampen drum movement during spin. When they wear out, the drum moves excessively and the washer shakes violently.
Top-load washers use suspension rods or dampening straps to support the tub. If these break or stretch, the tub moves excessively during spin.
The tub bearing allows the drum to spin smoothly. When it wears out, the drum wobbles during spin, causing shaking and a loud rumbling or grinding noise.
Counterbalance springs and weights stabilize the drum. If a spring breaks or a weight comes loose, the drum becomes unbalanced and the washer shakes violently.
A weak, bouncy, or uneven floor can amplify washer vibration. Consider placing the washer on a vibration-dampening mat or reinforcing the floor.
We stock OEM and premium aftermarket suspension and stabilization parts: Shock Absorbers, Suspension Rods & Springs, Dampening Straps, Tub Bearings & Seal Kits, Counterbalance Springs, Counterbalance Weights, Leveling Feet, and Complete Suspension Kits.
Brands we support: Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, GE, Samsung, LG, Frigidaire, Electrolux, Kenmore, Amana, Speed Queen, Bosch, and more.
Need a replacement instead of a repair?
Sometimes the repair cost isn’t worth it. XPart Supply carries Certified Pre-Owned washers and dryers that have been inspected, repaired, cleaned, and tested — available for local pickup or in-town delivery in Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, Brantford, and Hamilton.
View Certified Pre-Owned AppliancesDIY parts typically cost $30-$150. Shock absorbers $40-$80 (set of 4), suspension springs $30-$50, dampening straps $25-$40, tub bearing kit $80-$150. Professional repair costs $150-$400+ including labor.
You can, but you shouldn't. Excessive shaking can damage the washer's internal components, crack the tub, loosen plumbing connections, and damage your floor. Fix it soon to avoid more expensive repairs.
The spin cycle is when the drum rotates at high speed (800-1400 RPM), which amplifies any imbalance or worn suspension components.
Signs of bad shock absorbers include: excessive shaking during spin, loud banging as drum hits cabinet, visible fluid leaking from shocks, or the drum moving excessively when you push down on it with the washer off.
Some vibration is normal, especially during high-speed spin. However, the washer should not walk across the floor, bang loudly, or shake the entire room.
Absolutely - if your washer is less than 10 years old and otherwise working well, replacing suspension components is far more cost-effective than buying a new washer ($600-$1,500+). Most vibration repairs cost under $150 in parts.
Need Help? Our appliance parts experts are here to help you diagnose the vibration problem and find the exact parts you need. Call us or use the chat - we're Canadian-based and ready to help.
