How to Fix a Washing Machine Not Spinning
Last updated: 30 September 2026
Check the door lock, clean the drain filter, check the drive belt, and test the motor brushes.
Overview
A washing machine that will not spin leaves clothes soaking wet. This guide covers diagnosing and fixing spin issues.
Step-by-Step Fix
Before beginning any repair, ensure you have isolated power or water supplies. Clear your workspace, gather standard hand tools, and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
- First check that the washing machine door is fully closed and latched. If the door is not properly closed the machine will not spin for safety reasons. Push the door firmly to ensure it is latched. Check the door lock mechanism for visible damage.
- Turn off the washing machine and unplug it from the mains power. Check the drain filter at the bottom front of the machine. Place a towel and container underneath before opening. Clean out any debris such as coins, hair clips, or lint. A blocked filter prevents the machine from draining which in turn prevents spinning.
- Check the drain hose at the back of the machine for kinks or blockages. Straighten any kinks. If the hose is blocked water cannot drain and the machine will not spin. Disconnect the hose and check for obstructions.
- Access the drive belt at the back of the machine. Remove the back panel to expose the belt. Check if the belt is broken, loose, or has come off the pulleys. A broken or loose belt will prevent the drum from spinning. Replace the belt if damaged.
- Check the motor carbon brushes. The carbon brushes make contact with the motor commutator. If the brushes are worn down to less than one centimetre they will not make proper contact and the motor will not spin. Replace worn brushes.
- Test the motor with a multimeter. Disconnect the motor wires and test the resistance across the terminals. A reading between five and twenty ohms indicates the motor is functioning. An open circuit indicates a faulty motor.
- Check the door lock mechanism with a multimeter. Test for continuity across the lock terminals. If there is no continuity the door lock is faulty and needs replacing. The machine will not spin if the door lock does not signal that the door is secure.
- If the motor is faulty it will need to be replaced. Purchase a replacement motor compatible with your washing machine model. Disconnect the old motor and install the new one ensuring all connections are secure.
- Reassemble the machine and plug it back into the mains power. Run a short spin cycle to test. If the machine spins correctly the repair is successful. If the machine still does not spin there may be a fault with the control board which requires a qualified appliance technician.
- If you are unsure about any step or uncomfortable working with electrical components call a qualified appliance technician. Washing machine repairs involve both water and electricity so safety is essential.
Common Symptoms & Diagnostic Resolutions
Review the common error codes and operating symptoms below to quickly identify the root cause of the fault before ordering replacement parts.
| Symptom / Code | Likely Root Cause | Recommended Resolution |
|---|---|---|
| Machine will not spin | Door lock or motor fault | Check the door lock for continuity and test the motor. Replace faulty components. |
| Water remains in drum | Drain blockage preventing spin | Clean the drain filter and check the drain hose for kinks or blockages. |
| Drum does not turn | Broken or loose drive belt | Check the drive belt and replace if broken or loose. |
| Machine makes noise but does not spin | Worn motor brushes or faulty motor | Check the carbon brushes and replace if worn. Test the motor and replace if faulty. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why will not my washing machine spin?
A faulty door lock, blocked drain, broken drive belt, or worn motor brushes are the most common causes. Check each of these one at a time to identify the problem.
Can I fix a washing machine that will not spin myself?
Yes for simple issues like a blocked filter or broken belt. If the motor or control board is faulty you may need a qualified appliance technician.
How do I know if the drive belt is broken?
Remove the back panel of the washing machine and inspect the belt. A broken belt will be snapped or completely off the pulleys. A loose belt will feel slack.
What causes a washing machine to stop spinning?
Common causes include a faulty door lock, a blocked drain filter, a broken drive belt, or worn motor brushes. Less commonly the control board may be faulty.