Unlock the Right Part
for Your Repair
Find the exact part you need
Enter your model number to see parts that fit your machine.
Price Match Guarantee
In-stock parts ship the same day
365-Day Return Policy
Price Match GuaranteeChoose Product
Identify Problem
03
Find Solutions
HomeRepair HelpWhirlpool Dryer RepairWhirlpool Dryer stopped spinning Repair
Whirlpool Dryer stopped spinning
If your dryer has stopped spinning and the drum is not turning, the most likely cause is a broken drive belt — reach into the drum and try turning it by hand; if it spins easily the belt is probably snapped and needs replacement. Less commonly the timer can fail, but only after you rule out the usual suspects should you test the timer with a multimeter and the wiring diagram. Also confirm the power cord is fully seated in the outlet since intermittent power can make the dryer stop mid-cycle. Check the blower wheel next for lint or small items that can jam the wheel and prevent the drum from turning, and make sure the idler pulley spins freely; if the pulley is worn, replace it and the belt together. Finally, if the drum binds or the machine runs, stops, then restarts, the drive motor may be overheating and failing. If you need parts, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement belt, idler, blower wheel, motor, or timer for your dryer.
01 - Whirlpool Dryer Drive Belt
The drive belt is a very long, slender belt that wraps all the way around the dryer drum, around a tension pulley, and then around the drive motor pulley. Over time, the belt can break from normal use. If the belt is broken, the dryer won’t turn. To quickly determine if the belt is broken, reach into the dryer and turn the drum by hand. If the drum spins very easily, the belt is likely broken. Next, inspect the belt to confirm that it is broken. If the belt is broken, replace it.
Enter model number to search for the required part specific to your product
Top Solution
02 - Whirlpool Dryer Timer
A dryer drum that has stopped spinning unexpectedly could be caused by a faulty timer. However, this is very rarely the case. Before replacing the timer, check all the more commonly defective parts. If you determine that all of the other components are working properly, test the timer by using a multimeter and consulting the wiring diagram. If the timer is defective, replace it.
Top Solution
03 - Incoming Power Problem
Confirm the power cord is plugged tightly into the wall receptacle. A loose plug can provide intermittent power to the dryer and cause it to stop spinning during the cycle.
Top Solution
04 - Whirlpool Dryer Blower Wheel
The blower wheel works with the drive motor to draw air into the dryer drum. Clumps of lint, socks, and small articles of clothing can escape the lint filter and get caught in the blower wheel. Since the blower wheel is usually attached to the same drive motor shaft that drives the drum belt, an obstructed blower wheel may prevent the drum from spinning. To determine if the blower wheel is working properly, remove the dryer vent and assess the strength of the air flow. If the air flow is weak, check the blower wheel for obstructions. If no obstructions are present, try rotating the blower wheel by hand. If the blower wheel...
Common
05 - Whirlpool Dryer Idler Pulley
The dryer's idler pulley puts tension on the drive belt so the belt can rotate the drum during operation. A defective idler pulley can cause the dryer drum to stop spinning. Inspect the idler pulley and make sure it spins freely on the shaft. If the idler pulley is stuck, worn or damaged, we recommend replacing the drum drive belt in addition to replacing the idler pulley.
Common
06 - Whirlpool Dryer Drive Motor
The drive motor turns the drum and the blower wheel to exhaust the air. If the dryer runs, stops for a while, and then starts again, this likely indicates that the motor is overheating, causing the dryer to shut off until the motor cools down. First, remove the belt from the motor and check the blower wheel to ensure that it is not obstructed. Next, with the belt removed, try rotating the drum by hand. If the drum does not rotate freely, determine what is causing the drum to bind. If the drum turns freely and the blower wheel is clear of obstructions, the drive motor might be defective. If you suspect the motor is at fault...
Common
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my dryer drum not turning?
My dryer starts then stops — what could cause that?
Dryer making noise when drum turns — what should I check?
Dryer not starting — how do I tell if it is a power issue or a bad part?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the right replacement?
Shop by Whirlpool Dryer Parts
Shop by Popular Whirlpool Dryer Models
Our Story
Family-owned and operated since 1912, Burke America Parts Group is the longest-running genuine appliance, HVAC, and outdoor power equipment parts solution in North America. At Repair Clinic, we're proud to be an international brand trusted by the pros as well as the DIY community.
About Repair Clinic
© 2026 RepairClinic.com