A customer recently contacted me about a Hisense WFQA1214EVJM washing machine that was making a loud grinding noise whenever the drum was turned.
After removing the rear panel and inspecting the machine, there were clear signs that the drum bearings and bearing seal had failed.
What was causing the grinding noise?
The drum in a washing machine is supported by bearings fitted at the rear of the outer tub. These bearings allow the drum to rotate smoothly during washing and spinning.
On this machine, the bearings had become badly worn and corroded. This caused the drum to feel rough and produce a noticeable grinding sound when turned by hand.
The brown staining visible on the yellow plastic tub was rusty water and bearing residue leaking from the rear drum seal and bearing area. As the drum rotated, this residue had been thrown around the back of the machine.
This is a strong indication that the seal had failed and allowed moisture to enter the bearings.
Common signs of failed washing machine bearings
Possible symptoms include:
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A grinding or rumbling noise when the drum turns
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A much louder noise during the spin cycle
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Rusty or brown staining around the rear drum pulley
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Excessive movement when lifting the drum by hand
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Water leaking from the rear bearing area
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The drum or pulley appearing to wobble
Continuing to use the machine can cause further damage to the drum shaft, pulley, outer tub or motor area.
Can the bearings be replaced?
The bearings on this particular Hisense model are available as separate replacement parts, but changing them requires a major strip-down.
The complete tub must normally be removed from the cabinet, separated and dismantled before both bearings and the water seal can be replaced. The drum shaft and support spider also need to be inspected for corrosion or damage.
Repair or replace?
Although the washing machine could technically be repaired, my honest recommendation was to advise the customer towards a new machine instead.
A bearing replacement is a labour-intensive repair, and the remaining components in the washing machine will still have their existing age and wear. A new appliance will also normally include a manufacturer’s warranty, making it the more sensible long-term option in this case.
Not every noisy washing machine needs replacing. Items trapped between the drums, damaged pulleys and worn motor bearings can cause similar noises, so the appliance should always be properly diagnosed before a decision is made.
Washing machine repairs in Leicester
I provide independent washing machine fault finding and repairs across Leicester and Leicestershire.
Every appliance is inspected before any repair is recommended, and I will always give honest advice about whether the machine is worth repairing.