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HomeRepair HelpKenmore Washer RepairKenmore Washer has a burning smell Repair

Kenmore Washer has a burning smell

When your Kenmore washer has a burning smell, washing machine burning smell usually points to an electrical component or a slipping belt that is creating excessive heat. The most likely cause is a failing rotor and stator kit, especially on a direct-drive model. Wet or shorted stator coils can smell burnt or smoke, and the stator should be tested with a meter. Next, inspect the main control board, motor control board, and control board for burn marks caused by a power surge or failed component. A worn water pump belt can slip on the motor pulley, while a worn or frayed drive belt can create friction and a washer smells like burning rubber. Check that the water pump, motor pulley, and idler pulley turn freely, since a stuck component can make either belt overheat. Unplug the washer before inspecting electrical parts, and do not operate it if you see smoke or severe damage. Enter your Kenmore washer's model number to find the exact replacement rotor and stator kit, control board, motor control board, water pump belt, or drive belt for your specific washing machine.

01 - Kenmore Washing Machine Rotor and Stator Kit

The stator is part of a direct drive motor that electrically drives the outer rotor. If the stator coils become wet or the coated wires on the coils short out, they can produce a burning smell. You can test the stator coils with a meter. If the stator is smoking, or smells burnt, it will need to be replaced.
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02 - Kenmore Washing Machine Main Control Board

The main control board provides power to the various components of the washer. If the control board receives a power surge, or a component fails, the control board can short-out causing a burning smell. Inspect the control board for burn marks. A burnt main control board will need to be replaced.
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03 - Kenmore Washing Machine Motor Control Board

The motor control board sends power to the motor. If the motor shorts out or a power surge occurs components on the board can blow out causing a burning smell. Inspect the motor control board for burn marks and replace if necessary.
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04 - Kenmore Washing Machine Control Board

The control board provides power to the components of the washer. If the control board receives a power surge or a component fails, the control board can short out causing a burning smell. Inspect the control board for burn marks. If the control board is burnt, it will need to be replaced.
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05 - Kenmore Washing Machine Water Pump Belt

The water pump belt can get worn and slip on the pulleys causing a burning smell. Check the motor pulley for wear and make sure the water pump turns freely.
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06 - Kenmore Washing Machine Drive Belt

If the drive belt is worn or frayed it can slip on the pulley causing friction and a burning smell. Also check the components the belt is turning to make sure they turn freely. A stuck water pump or idler pulley can create enough friction to cause the belt to burn.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my Kenmore washer has a burning smell or starts smoking?
Why does my Kenmore washer smell like burning rubber during the spin cycle?
How do I test a Kenmore washer stator or motor for a burning smell?
Could a Kenmore washer control board cause a burning smell?
How do I find the correct Kenmore washer replacement part?

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