Problems With My Washing Machine Clicking When Closed

Agitator Cam and Cogs

• Some washing machines are considered “direct drive” models and have a top and a bottom agitator. There is a cam -- and also cogs -- between the two parts of the agitator. When these parts begin to wear out, a clicking sound ensues. In addition, the agitator will not perform as forcefully to clean dirty laundry. Appliance411 recommends that both the cam and cogs should be replaced at the same time, since deterioration in either one or the other will cause a re-occurrence of the problem. Some agitators can simply be lifted out of the machine, but other models have a cap that must first be removed and may have screws that need to be loosened as well.

Coupler

• Direct-drive washing machines also have a coupler that connects the transmission and motor. The coupler is a rubber and plastic piece that functions like a belt. When the coupler breaks, it causes a clicking sound in the washer. Brunswick-ga-appliance-repairs.com notes that couplers can be replaced without removing the washing machine’s shell by merely tipping the machine backwards on an incline.

Motor

• Clicking sounds from the washing machine may also indicate a problem with the appliance’s motor. The connections to the harness may be loose or seared. If not, the motor switch itself may have burned out. The washing machine’s shell will have to be removed to check the harness, and the motor’s cover will also have to be removed to check the motor switch.

Other Considerations

• According to Maytag, it is normal to hear clicking sounds from the top of the agitator when washing small loads of laundry or using low water levels. Increasing the laundry load and water level will decrease the sound. LG Knowledge Base notes that clicking noises can emanate from the relay switches, which are transferring information from the main board to other parts of the machine.