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HomeRepair HelpKenmore Washer RepairKenmore Washer won't agitate Repair
Kenmore Washer won't agitate
When your Kenmore washer won't agitate, the agitator repair kit is the most likely cause. These components wear out, strip, or break, allowing the agitator to move only slightly or not at all. If the kit is in good condition, inspect the drive block or bell, which connects the transmission shaft to the agitator. A worn or damaged drive block can leave the transmission moving while the agitator remains still. Next, check the lid switch assembly and make sure the lid is fully closed with no obstruction preventing the lid strike from engaging the switch. A failed lid switch can prevent both agitation and spinning. Less commonly, a broken motor coupling or loose or broken drive belt can cause a washer not agitating, especially after an overload or normal wear. Unplug the machine before inspecting parts, and use a multimeter to test the lid switch for continuity when closed. Enter your Kenmore washer model number to find the exact agitator repair kit, drive block, lid switch assembly, motor coupling, or drive belt for your specific washing machine.
01 - Kenmore Washing Machine Agitator Repair Kit
If the washer won't agitate, replacing the agitator repair kit may solve the problem. The kit contains the agitator components that are most likely to wear out and/or fail. If any of the parts are worn out, stripped, or damaged, replace the kit.
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02 - Kenmore Washing Machine Drive Block or Bell
The drive block connects the washer transmission to the agitator. If the drive block is worn out, the transmission shaft will still move back and forth, but the agitator will only move slightly or will not move at all. Inspect the drive block for damage. If the drive block is worn out, stripped, or damaged, replace it.
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03 - Kenmore Washing Machine Lid Switch Assembly
On some models the lid switch assembly prevents the washer from both spinning and agitating when the lid is open. If the lid switch assembly fails, the washer will not spin or agitate. To determine if the lid switch assembly is defective, use a multimeter to test the lid switch for continuity. If the lid switch does not have continuity when the lid is closed, replace it.
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04 - Lid Not Fully Closed
On most top load machines the washer will not agitate or spin without the lid being fully closed. Close the lid after loading the washer and ensure there are no obstructions preventing the lid strike from connecting to the lid switch or latch.
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05 - Kenmore Washing Machine Motor Coupling
The motor coupling connects the motor to the washer transmission. If the washer is overloaded, the motor coupling will fail in order to protect both the motor and transmission. The motor coupling can also fail due to normal wear. Inspect the motor coupling to determine if it is broken. If the motor coupling is broken, replace it.
Highly Likely
06 - Kenmore Washing Machine Drive Belt
Inspect the drive belt to determine if it is broken or if it is loose on the pulleys. If the drive belt is broken or loose, replace it.
Highly Likely
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won't my Kenmore washer agitate but will spin?
Why won't my Kenmore washer agitate or spin?
What should I check if my Kenmore washer is not agitating?
How do I find the correct Kenmore washer agitator part?
Can a washer lid that is not fully closed stop the agitator?
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