Kenmore washer not agitating

What would cause a Kenmore washing machine not to agitate?

Many components come into play to move the agitator in your washing machine. A problem with any of them could prevent the agitator from working.

Worn Agitator Dogs

The agitator dogs engage with teeth inside the agitator to create a one-way ratcheting motion in the upper part of the agitator. That one-way motion at the top of the agitator combines with the back-and-forth motion at the bottom to move garments through the water during the agitation cycle. If the top part of the agitator moves in two directions, the agitator dogs are likely worn out and you’ll need to replace them.

Here’s a video that shows how to replace agitator dogs:

If you’re not completely confident that you can replace the agitator dogs on your own, schedule washer repair service and we’ll send a Sears Home Services technician to your home to install them.

Broken Lid Switch

On many top-load washers, the lid switch must detect that the washer lid is closed before the washer will agitate. Unplug the washer and check the lid switch. Replace it if it’s broken or damaged.

Here’s a video that shows how to replace the lid switch in a common type of top-load washer:

If you’re unable to replace the lid switch on your own, schedule service and we’ll send a repair technician to your home to install a new lid switch.

Other Causes of a Washer Not Agitating

Problems with the water level pressure switch, the drive block or a faulty gearcase can also prevent a washer from agitating.

When you’re unable to determine the cause of the agitation failure on your own, schedule washer repair service and we’ll send a technician to your home to fix the machine.

What to expect when you experience a Kenmore washer not agitating issue

How is the not agitating problem fixed?

Correcting most not agitating problems usually involves replacing the electronic control board, actuator or door lock assembly. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

Sears Home Services recommendations for a washer that is not agitating

When the washer is not agitating it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of washer failures.

What to look out for with a washer not agitating diagnosis

Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your washer problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

If your Kenmore washer won’t agitate, clothes remain in one spot and only partially clean. Stripped gears or broken belts frequently stop this motion. Rather than subpar washing, schedule a washer technician near me. Full agitation guarantees every garment emerges spotless.