Washing Machine Shaking Violently? Balance, Level and Bolts

Washing machine shaking violently during the spin cycle almost always has a simple cause: an unbalanced load, a machine that is not level, transit bolts that were never removed, or a floor that flexes. Stop the cycle, rearrange the load, and check the feet. Worn suspension parts are the less common cause and need a repair.

Washing machine shaking violently: the quick answer

During spin, the drum whirls at high speed. Any imbalance in weight, or any movement in the cabinet, is magnified into banging and walking. Fix the load and the level first. If the machine is new and shaking, look for shipping bolts. If it is old, worn dampers or springs may be at fault.

Quick facts: washing machine shaking violently
Time needed	10 to 45 minutes
Tools	Spirit level, adjustable wrench, towels
Difficulty	Easy for balance and level; moderate for parts
Safety	Stop the cycle and unplug before moving a heavy machine

Checks in order

1. Stop the machine and redistribute the load. Heavy, wet items such as towels, jeans and bedding bunch on one side. Mix them with lighter items.
2. Do not wash a single heavy item. Add a few towels to balance it.
3. Check the load size. An overloaded drum cannot balance, and an underloaded one can also be unstable.
4. Level the washer. Put a spirit level on top and adjust the front feet until it is level both ways. Tighten the lock nuts so the feet cannot move.
5. Rock the machine at each corner. If it rocks, adjust the feet until all four support weight.
6. Look for shipping bolts on the back of a new or moved front-load washer. They hold the drum during transport and must be removed.
7. Check the floor. A flexible wood floor can amplify vibration. A washer on a second floor may need a stiffer base.

What the shaking means

Symptom	Likely cause	Fix
Shakes only with some loads	Unbalanced load	Redistribute or add items
Always shakes, new machine	Shipping bolts or poor level	Remove bolts, level
Rocks on the floor	A foot not touching	Adjust feet and lock nuts
Gets worse over years	Worn dampers, springs or suspension	Replace the parts
Loud bang with a thump	Drum hitting the cabinet or a loose weight	Technician inspection

Suspension and dampers

Front-loaders have shock absorbers or dampers that cushion the drum, and top-loaders have suspension rods or springs. Over time they wear. A washing machine shaking violently on every load despite a level machine and a balanced drum may need new dampers or rods. The parts are usually modest in price, but the job takes time. A technician can check the drum for free play.

Anti-vibration pads

Rubber anti-vibration pads under the feet can reduce noise and walking, but they do not cure the cause. Fit them after levelling, and make sure the machine sits firmly. Avoid placing the washer on a soft mat that lets it move. If the machine sits on a timber floor, ask a carpenter about a plywood pad screwed across the joists beneath it, which reduces floor flex and noise.

Is it dangerous?

A machine that bangs against the wall, tips, or shifts across the floor can damage hoses and fittings, and the vibrating cabinet can loosen parts. Do not keep running a machine that is shaking violently. Fix the cause first, and if it has walked away from the wall, check that the hoses and power cord are not stretched or kinked before you push it back.

When to call a professional

Call if the drum bangs, the suspension seems worn, or you find loose or broken parts.

Washing machine shaking violently: what the shaking means

A washing machine shaking violently during the spin usually points to an unbalanced load, worn shock absorbers or suspension springs, or a machine that is not level. Start by redistributing the load and checking that the feet are firm. Washing machine shaking violently can also come from a worn bearing, which makes a grinding noise as well. Level the machine with a spirit level on the top, and tighten the lock nuts on the feet. Anti-vibration pads help on hard floors, but they do not replace a level installation.

Before you run the machine again, check that the shipping bolts or transit brackets have been removed, since leftover brackets are a common cause of heavy shaking. Also confirm that the machine sits level on all four feet.

Related reading

• Washing Machine Won't Spin? Causes, Checks and Fixes
• Washer Leaking From Bottom? Find the Source and Fix It
• Washing Machine Not Filling With Water? 8 Causes and Fixes
• Dryer Making Loud Noise? Squeal, Thump, Rattle and Grind Fixes

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