ApplianceErrors.com

Washer Shaking, Walking, or Loud on Spin: Causes and Fixes

Violent shaking or a washer that 'walks' during spin is usually an unbalanced load, unlevel feet, or shipping bolts still installed on a new front-loader. Redistribute the load, level the machine, and confirm transit bolts are removed. Persistent banging can mean worn suspension or bad drum bearings.

What to Check First

1
Redistribute the load evenly — single heavy items (rugs, towels) are the #1 cause of unbalance.
2
Level the machine: adjust the feet so it doesn't rock, then tighten the lock nuts.
3
New machine? Confirm all shipping/transit bolts were removed from the back panel.
4
Listen for a grinding/rumbling that worsens with speed — that points to drum bearings, a bigger repair.
5
Check that the machine sits on a solid floor, not a flexing subfloor or riser.

Error Codes for This Problem, by Brand

If your washing machine is showing an error code along with this symptom, find your brand below — each code links to its full fix guide.

Samsung Washing Machine

Unbalanced load detected

✓ Low Severity

Motor locked — drum cannot rotate

⚠ High Severity

Over-current motor protection — motor drawing excessive current

⚠ High Severity

Motor drive error — motor cannot reach commanded speed

⚠ High Severity

Unbalanced load — drum cannot reach spin speed safely

✓ Low Severity

Unbalance error variant — repeated failed redistribution attempts

✓ Low Severity

LG Washing Machine

Unbalanced load — cannot complete spin cycle

✓ Low Severity

Motor locked — hall sensor or stator fault

⚠ High Severity

Over-current error — motor drawing too much current

⚠ High Severity

Clutch motor error (top-load models)

⚠ High Severity

Overcurrent error — excessive current detected in the motor drive circuit

⚠ High Severity

Whirlpool Washing Machine

Motor speed error — motor not reaching target RPM

⚠ High Severity

Shifter fault — the drive shifter cannot move between agitate and spin

⚠ High Severity

Motor fault — the drive motor is not responding correctly

⚠ High Severity

Motor unable to reach target speed

⚠ Medium Severity

GE Appliances Washing Machine

Spin speed error — motor not reaching target RPM

⚠ Medium Severity

Drive motor failure

⚠ High Severity

Kenmore Washing Machine

Motor locked (LG-platform Kenmore models)

⚠ High Severity

Unbalanced load (LG-platform Kenmore models)

✓ Low Severity

Haier Washing Machine

Motor error — drive motor fault

⚠ High Severity

Motor fault — drum motor not responding

⚠ High Severity

Electrolux Washing Machine

⚠ High Severity

Miele Washing Machine

Motor fault — drive motor failure

⚠ High Severity

Speed Queen Washing Machine

Motor feedback error — motor control fault

⚠ High Severity

Fisher & Paykel Washing Machine

Motor controller fault

⚠ High Severity

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my washer shake so violently on spin? +

Most often an unbalanced load or an unlevel machine. On a new front-loader, leftover shipping bolts cause severe shaking. If it's level, balanced, and bolt-free, suspect worn suspension rods or drum bearings.

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