Last updated: 2026-10-30 · By Fix It or Replace editorial team
Kenmore Washer Not Spinning? Load, Spin Setting, Suds, Drain Hose and Lid Lock Fixes — Costs and Repair vs Replace (2026)
Quick answer
First, a Kenmore-specific step: check who built your washer. Kenmore (now owned by Transformco, formerly Sears) has never made its own washers. The first three digits of the model number, before the dot, tell you the maker: 110. = Whirlpool, 796. = LG, 417. = Frigidaire, as listed by parts retailers. Parts and codes follow the maker. Most Kenmore top-loads are 110. models, so this page leans on Whirlpool-platform facts where Kenmore's own pages are thin, and we label them.
Then the free fixes. A Kenmore 110-series use-and-care guide lists these for "not draining/spinning, loads still wet, or spin light on":
- Tightly packed or unbalanced load. Kenmore says these may not let the washer spin correctly. Spread the wet load evenly and run Drain/Spin. Don't add more than one or two items after the cycle starts, and don't add water.
- Low-spin cycle. Cycles with lower spin speeds remove less water. Use the recommended cycle and spin for the garment, then Drain/Spin to pull out extra water.
- Too much detergent. Kenmore says suds can slow or stop draining and spinning. Measure HE detergent and run Rinse/Spin (don't add detergent) to clear suds.
- Small items in the pump. Socks and small items can catch in the pump or between basket and tub and slow draining. Empty pockets; use garment bags.
- Drain hose. The hose shouldn't go more than 4.5 inches (114 mm) into the standpipe. Use the hose form, don't tape over the drain opening, lower the hose if its end is higher than 96 inches, and clear any clogs. The spin light staying on means the washer couldn't pump the water out within 10 minutes.
- Lid. The lid must be closed for the washer to run. Lid Locked light flashing means the lid isn't closed, or the basket is still slowing down after a pause, which can take several minutes.
- Power and reset. Sears Home Services suggests checking the outlet and breaker, then unplugging the washer for 2 minutes to reset the control boards.
If those don't fix it, the usual parts on a 110-series washer (Whirlpool platform) are the lid lock or lid switch, a drive belt and shift actuator on newer belt-drive top-loads, a motor coupling or clutch on older direct-drive models, the drain pump, the drive motor, or the control board. Kenmore's warranty includes lifetime coverage on the washer drive motor for purchases dated on or after February 4, 2018, so check it before paying for a motor.
Repair or replace? Most no-spin calls cost nothing to fix. A lid switch, coupling, actuator, or belt is cheap. A motor may be a free part under Kenmore's lifetime motor coverage. See the calculator below.
Our partner pro call line is coming soon. Until then: if your appliance may still be under warranty, contact the manufacturer first. Otherwise, get two or three written quotes from local appliance repair companies, and ask about the diagnostic fee and the parts-and-labor warranty.
Verdict at a glance
| Your situation | What it usually means | Our verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Clothes wet, washer packed tight, a Delicates, Casual, Bulky or Soak cycle, too much detergent | Load, spin setting, or suds | ✅ Free fix. Rearrange, Drain/Spin, Rinse/Spin |
| Water standing in the tub; spin light on; Lid Locked light flashing | Drain hose or standpipe, small item in the pump, lid not closed | ✅ Free to cheap. Fix the hose, clear the pump, close the lid; lid lock if it fails |
| Drains fine, lid locks, but the basket never spins; motor hums; codes return | Belt, shift actuator, coupling or clutch, motor, board | 🔧 Usually worth repairing for a belt, actuator, or coupling, or if the drive motor is under Kenmore's lifetime motor coverage; ♻️ lean toward replacing for a board on an older washer |
Safety check before any DIY (30 seconds)
Stop and don't start the DIY steps below if any of these is true:
- Unplug the washer before you open any panel or take off the drain hose.
- The tub is full of water. Drain or bail it first; it's heavy and may be hot.
- Never bypass the lid lock or lid switch. It keeps hands away from a spinning basket.
- You smell burning, or the breaker trips again. Sears Home Services warns that forcing cycles can overheat the motor. Stop and call a qualified technician.
- The washer is in year 1, or the motor may be covered. Kenmore's warranty gives free repair for one year and a free drive motor for life (purchases on or after February 4, 2018). Defects must be verified by a Kenmore authorized service representative, so call before you open panels.
- Recall check: search your model on the CPSC recall site before paying for a repair.
If none of these apply, the free checks below are safe for most owners.
Fix order at a glance (cheapest first)
| Order | What to try | Cost | DIY tier |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Read the model number; note the maker (110 / 796 / 417) | Free | Easy |
| 2 | Rearrange a tightly packed or unbalanced load; Drain/Spin | Free | Easy |
| 3 | Check the cycle's spin speed; use Drain/Spin | Free | Easy |
| 4 | Measure HE detergent; Rinse/Spin to clear suds | Free | Easy |
| 5 | Fix the drain hose: hose form, no more than 4.5 in into the standpipe, no tape, no clogs | Free | Easy |
| 6 | Close the lid; wait for the basket to stop before reopening | Free | Easy |
| 7 | Check outlet and breaker; unplug 2 minutes to reset | Free | Easy |
| 8 | Front-load: clean the drain pump filter (models that have one) | Free | Easy |
| 9 | Replace the lid lock, lid switch, or front-load door lock | Part, or pro visit | Moderate |
| 10 | Replace the drive belt, shift actuator, motor coupling, or clutch | Part, or pro visit | Moderate → Advanced |
| 11 | Replace the drain pump | Part, or pro visit | Advanced |
| 12 | Drive motor, control board | Pro diagnosis first (check the lifetime motor coverage) | Advanced |
DIY tiers: Easy (no panels off) · Moderate (a panel off, power off) · Advanced (washer tipped or opened, several parts or wiring) · Pro only (mains wiring, or still under warranty).
Which Kenmore washer do you have?
Find the model and serial number on the label (on most top-loads, under the lid or on the back of the cabinet; on front-loads, around the door opening). Kenmore's warranty won't pay for service if the model and serial plate is missing or altered, so keep it readable.
| Model starts with | Built by | Common type | What that means for "won't spin" |
|---|---|---|---|
| 110. | Whirlpool | Most Kenmore top-loads; some Kenmore and Kenmore Elite front-loads | Whirlpool-family parts and many Whirlpool-style codes. Our Whirlpool, Maytag, and Amana guides share the platform |
| 796. | LG | Many Kenmore and Kenmore Elite front-loads and some top-loads | LG-family parts; LG-style codes may appear (see LG washer not spinning) |
| 417. | Frigidaire (Electrolux) | Some Kenmore front-loads and top-loads | Frigidaire-family parts (see Frigidaire washer not spinning) |
Labeling note: Kenmore's own US website publishes warranties and manuals, but not model-by-model spin troubleshooting. The prefix-to-maker mapping above comes from parts retailers (sources 5 and 6), not an official Kenmore table. The free checks on this page come from a Kenmore 110-series use-and-care guide; if your model starts with 796 or 417, use your own Kenmore manual (Kenmore's manual lookup is linked below) and the matching maker's guide.
Five-minute checks before you call anyone
- Model number. Write it down, including the prefix. You'll need it for parts, codes, and warranty.
- Load. Kenmore's guide: load garments in loose heaps evenly around the basket wall, with dry items only. If it's packed tight, remove several items, rearrange, close the lid, and press Start/Pause/Unlock Lid.
- Spin speed. In the Kenmore guide's cycle chart, Bulky/Bedding, Casual, and Delicates use a Low spin, and Soak drains but doesn't spin. Clothes will be wetter after those cycles. Run Drain/Spin afterward.
- Suds. Kenmore's guide: always use HE detergent in an HE washer, and measure it. Suds from too much or non-HE detergent can keep the washer from operating correctly. Clear them with Rinse/Spin.
- Drain hose. No more than 4.5 inches into the standpipe, hose form attached, no tape over the opening, no clogs, hose end not higher than 96 inches.
- Lid. Closed fully. If the Lid Locked light flashes after you paused, wait: the lid won't unlock until the basket stops, which can take several minutes after a big load.
- Power. Outlet working? Breaker reset? Then unplug for 2 minutes to reset the boards (Sears Home Services).
- Front-load filter. On front-loads with an access door, clean the drain pump filter per your manual. Sears Home Services lists a clogged filter as a cause of no spin.
How to know it's fixed: Drain/Spin on a balanced load drains the water and reaches full spin, the spin light goes off, the lid locks for spin, and clothes come out damp, not dripping.
Kenmore washer signals linked to "not spinning"
Many Kenmore 110-series top-loads with knobs show lights, not codes. Here's what Kenmore's guide says about them:
| Light / sign | Kenmore's meaning | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Spin light stays on | The washer couldn't pump out water within 10 minutes | Check the drain hose, standpipe depth, clogs, suds, and small items in the pump |
| Lid Locked light flashing | Lid not closed, or the basket is still slowing after a pause | Close the lid; wait several minutes for the basket to stop |
| Lid Locked light solid | Lid locked for higher spin speeds | Normal |
| Clicking at the start of spin | The lid lock running a self-test | Normal |
| Lid open 10 minutes | The washer cancels the cycle and pumps out the water | Restart the cycle |
Codes on digital models (labeled): Kenmore 110. washers with displays generally use Whirlpool-family codes (for example F# E# system codes, LdL lid not locking, Sud suds, OL overload); Kenmore 796. washers generally use LG-style codes (such as UE unbalanced, OE drain, dE door). We didn't find a Kenmore-published code list for every model, so treat these as platform notes and confirm with your Kenmore manual. See our Whirlpool washer not spinning, LG washer UE error, and LG washer OE error guides.
Which part each sign points at, and how hard the fix is:
| Sign / symptom | Part most often involved | First fix (free) | If it comes back | DIY tier |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lid Locked light flashing with the lid shut | Lid lock or lid strike | Close the lid firmly; clear detergent from the latch | Lid lock assembly | Moderate |
| Older model, lid closed, no spin, no lights | Lid switch | Check the lid actuator isn't bent | Lid switch | Moderate |
| Spin light on, water in the tub | Drain hose, small item in the pump, drain pump | Fix the hose; clear the pump | Drain pump | Easy → Advanced |
| Agitates but won't spin (110 top-load) | Shift actuator or belt (newer); coupling or clutch (older direct-drive) | Unplug 2 minutes; Drain/Spin | Actuator, belt, coupling, or clutch | Moderate → Advanced |
| Motor hums, basket still | Drive motor, coupling, board | — | Motor (check lifetime coverage) or board | Advanced |
| Front-load won't spin, door won't lock | Door lock | Close the door firmly; clear the gasket | Door lock | Moderate |
Light meanings and checks from a Kenmore 110-series top-load use-and-care guide (models 110.22532512 and 110.20232711; source 2) and Sears Home Services (source 3), checked 2026-10-30. The code notes and the symptom→part table are our own Whirlpool-platform and LG-platform mapping, not Kenmore wording. The open ApplianceDB sample (source 12) has no Kenmore entries, so we didn't use it here.
Diagnose by symptom → likely part
Before you touch parts: Unplug the washer. Drain or bail out the water. Towels down. Keep the model number handy, because the right part depends on the maker.
1. Lid Locked light flashing, or it never locks and never spins
Likely causes: something under the lid, detergent build-up on the latch, a damaged lid strike, or a failed lid lock assembly. On older 110 top-loads without a lock, a failed lid switch (Sears Home Services: check that it clicks when the lid closes). Front-loads: a failed door lock.
DIY difficulty: Moderate (top panel or console up, power off).
| Part | What it does | DIY difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Lid lock assembly | Locks the lid before high-speed spin | Moderate |
| Lid switch (older models) | Tells the control the lid is closed | Moderate |
| Door lock (front-load) | Locks the door and tells the control it's shut | Moderate |
2. Agitates fine, but the basket never spins (110 top-load)
Likely causes (Whirlpool-platform, labeled): on many newer belt-drive models, a failed shift actuator or a worn drive belt. On older direct-drive models, a broken motor coupling (Sears Home Services names a broken motor coupler as a cause) or a worn clutch.
DIY difficulty: Moderate to Advanced (washer tipped back or cabinet off, power off).
| Part | What it does | DIY difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Shift actuator | Switches between wash and spin | Moderate |
| Drive belt | Connects the motor to the gearcase | Moderate |
| Motor coupling (direct-drive) | Links the motor to the transmission | Advanced |
| Clutch (direct-drive) | Brings the basket up to spin speed | Advanced |
3. Water stays in the tub; spin light on
Likely causes: the drain hose setup, a sock or small item in the pump, a clogged pump filter (front-load), or a failed drain pump.
DIY difficulty: Easy (hose, filter) to Advanced (pump).
| Part | What it does | DIY difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Drain pump | Pumps water out before spin | Advanced |
4. Motor hums or stays silent; codes keep coming back
Likely causes: the drive motor, the motor control (on some front-loads), or the main control board. Sears Home Services notes a motor or control-board fault usually needs a professional.
DIY difficulty: Advanced; diagnose first. Kenmore's lifetime drive-motor coverage (purchases on or after February 4, 2018) supplies a free motor; you pay installation labor after year 1, and the defect must be verified by a Kenmore authorized service representative.
| Part | What it does | DIY difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Drive motor | Turns the basket | Advanced (check coverage) |
| Control board | Runs the cycle and the motor | Advanced; diagnose first |
Not sure if it's the lock, the actuator, the coupling, or the motor? A technician can test each in one visit and tell you whether Kenmore's motor coverage applies; that's the visit that decides repair vs. replace.
Partner pro call line coming soon. See “who services” below for your options.
Independent partner service, not Kenmore or Sears. We may be paid when you call.
Keep it spinning
- Measure HE detergent every load (Kenmore guide).
- Load loosely and evenly, dry items only, and add no more than one or two items mid-cycle.
- Don't add water by hand (Kenmore guide).
- Empty pockets and bag small items so they don't reach the pump.
- Keep the drain hose 4.5 inches into the standpipe, with the hose form, untaped.
- Don't overload; Sears Home Services says it strains the motor and drive parts.
- Keep your receipt. Kenmore's motor coverage needs proof of original sale.
Related guides
- Whirlpool washer not spinning
- Amana washer not spinning
- LG washer not spinning
- Frigidaire washer not spinning
- Kenmore dryer not heating
What Kenmore's warranty covers on a washer
Per the Kenmore warranty information page on kenmore.com (Washers, read 2026-10-30; the warrantor is a Transformco subsidiary, and your washer's use-and-care guide has the version that applies to your purchase):
| Period | What's covered | Who pays labor |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 (from the date of original sale) | Free repair of defects in material or workmanship; replacement if it can't be repaired | Kenmore |
| Lifetime (purchases dated on or after February 4, 2018) | A free replacement washer drive motor for a defective motor, as long as the washer is used | Kenmore in year 1; you after year 1 |
| Non-household use | All coverage drops to 90 days | — |
What this means for a washer that won't spin: in year 1, a failed lid lock, actuator, pump, motor, or board is a free repair. After that, only the drive motor stays covered (part only), and Kenmore says the lifetime coverage doesn't apply to any other related component or mechanism. Kenmore's exclusions also name expendable items such as belts, service calls to instruct you on operation or installation, and problems with house fuses, circuit breakers, wiring, or plumbing. You need proof of original sale.
→ Kenmore: warranty information · Kenmore: manuals · Kenmore warranty line 1-844-553-6667
Before you pay for any repair: a 4-point check
- Warranty: year 1 free repair; lifetime drive motor (part only after year 1) for purchases on or after Feb. 4, 2018; plus retailer or credit-card extended protection or a Sears/Kenmore protection agreement if you bought one.
- Recalls: search your model at the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's recall site: cpsc.gov/Recalls. A recall repair is free.
- Free fixes done: load, spin speed, HE detergent, Rinse/Spin, drain hose, lid, power reset, pump filter.
- Written quote: ask for part, labor, and trip fee as separate lines, and whether the part is the drive motor (covered) or a related part (not covered).
What it costs: repair parts and pro service (2026)
How we price this table: DIY part prices come from Sears PartsDirect public search pages for "kenmore washer …" searches (S-list under Sources), USD before tax and shipping. Because Kenmore washers are built by other makers, we show Whirlpool-family part numbers (for 110 models) as the main range and list LG (796) and Frigidaire (417) numbers separately where the searches returned them. GE and Samsung parts, bezels, plungers, clips, strikes, filters, refurbished, commercial, and gear-case listings are excluded. Pro costs tagged [GUIDE] come from two US cost guides (Fixr = G1, HomeGuide = G2): national averages for washers in general, not Kenmore-specific quotes. "Varies — get a quote" means neither guide itemizes that repair, so we don't show a number.
| Repair | Part cost (DIY) | Typical pro cost (parts + labor) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Load, spin setting, detergent, hose, lid, power reset | $0 | — | Do these first |
| Lid lock assembly (110) | $49.07–$75.46 (W10404050 to WPW10619844) [S7] | [GUIDE] lid switch $85–$160 (G1); door lock or lid switch $100–$300 (G2) | |
| Lid switch (110, older) | $28.60–$110.62 (WP8318084 to WP8054980) [S1] | [GUIDE] lid switch $85–$160 (G1) | |
| Lid lock / switch (796, LG-built) | $121.33–$146.12 (EBF61215202 to EBF61674802) [S1] | [GUIDE] as above | |
| Front-load door lock | 110: $98.09–$200.52 (WP8182634 to WPW10375379); 796: $81.23 (EBF49827801); 417: $124.36 (131763256) [S7] | [GUIDE] door lock $110–$200 (G1) | |
| Drive belt (110) | $17.98–$52.92 (WP95405 to WPW10388418) [S2] | [GUIDE] belt $100–$200 (G2) | Belt-drive models; Kenmore treats belts as expendable |
| Shift actuator (110) | $13.57–$73.62 (W10913952 to W11481722) [S8] | Varies — get a quote (not itemized in G1/G2) | Newer belt-drive top-loads |
| Motor coupling (110, direct-drive) | $21.07–$26.38 (285753A to 285852A) [S5] | Varies — get a quote (not itemized) | |
| Clutch (110, direct-drive) | $32.14–$125.66 (285785 to WP3953062) [S6] | Varies — get a quote (not itemized) | |
| Drain pump | 110: $27.76–$81.60 (W10536347 to WP3363892); 796: $43.13–$125.80 (4681EA2001T to 4681EA1007A); 417: $122.27–$143.42 (137108000 to 132611913) [S3] | [GUIDE] pump $150–$350, part $20–$100 (G2); pump $300–$400 (G1) | |
| Drive motor (110) | $138.89–$317.83 (WP661600 to WP3352287) [S4] | [GUIDE] motor $300–$500 (G1); $300–$700 (G2) | Free part for life on purchases from Feb. 4, 2018 |
| Control board | 110: $200.92–$252.79 (W10634102 to W10632925); 796: $240.43–$436.21 (EBR85130521 to EBR79950242) [S9] | [GUIDE] motherboard $250–$400 (G1); control board $350–$550 (G2) | Diagnose first |
| Service call / diagnostic fee | — | [GUIDE] $50–$100 diagnosis visit (G1); $70–$130 minimum service fee, then $50–$125 per hour (G2) | |
| New comparable washer | — | [GUIDE] $650–$2,100 replacement (G1); $700–$1,300 new washer (G2); all brands | Add haul-away if not included |
Part prices checked 2026-10-30 on Sears PartsDirect public search pages (S1–S9). Pro-cost cells tagged [GUIDE] from G1 (Fixr) and G2 (HomeGuide), re-read 2026-10-30; [GUIDE] figures are national averages, not Kenmore-specific quotes. Prices change; confirm with your full model number.
Tip: if a tech says "motor," ask for the purchase date on your receipt. On a Kenmore bought on or after February 4, 2018, the motor part should be free through Kenmore; you'd pay labor after year 1.
Repair vs. replace calculator
1. What's the all-in repair cost? → R = trip/diagnostic fee + part + labor + tax, minus anything Kenmore's warranty (or a recall) covers
2. What does a comparable new washer cost, all-in? → N = unit + delivery + installation + haul-away (+ new hoses)
3. How old is your washer, and how long should it last? → Age and Life (use about 10 years, near the middle of HomeGuide's 8–13-year range, if you don't know)
4. How much have you spent on repairs in the last 2 years? → Past
Step A — Cost ratio: R ÷ N
Step B — Life used: Age ÷ Life
Step C — Repeat-repair check: (R + Past) ÷ N
| Life used under 50% | Life used over 50% | |
|---|---|---|
| Repair under 50% of new | ✅ Repair | 🤔 Repair is usually fine. Check for other wear |
| Repair over 50% of new | 🤔 Get a second quote first | ❌ Replace |
Repeat-repair rule: if Step C is over 50%, treat it like the bottom-right box: money keeps going into the same machine. And if the part is no longer available for your model, that decides it: replace. Older Kenmore models can be harder to find parts for, so ask about availability first.
Worked example 1 (illustrative numbers): A 4-year-old Kenmore 110 top-load leaves jeans soaking wet and the spin light is on. Two socks were caught in the pump and the drain hose was pushed a foot into the standpipe. Clearing both fixes it. R = $0.
→ Not a repair.
Worked example 2 (illustrative numbers): A 6-year-old Kenmore bought in 2020 has a failed drive motor. Kenmore supplies the motor free under its lifetime motor coverage; the owner pays the visit and installation: R = $190; N = $850; no other repairs.
190 ÷ 850 = 22%; life used 6 ÷ 10 = 60%; repeat check 22% → Repair (usually fine; check for other wear).
Worked example 3 (illustrative numbers): A 12-year-old direct-drive Kenmore needs a clutch and a lid switch after a $230 pump last year. R = $330; N = $850.
330 ÷ 850 = 39%; life used 12 ÷ 10 = over 100%; repeat check (330 + 230) ÷ 850 = 66% → Replace.
Tips toward replacing: a board on a washer near 10 years old, a second big repair in about 2 years, hard-to-find parts on an older model, or rust or a cracked tub.
Tips toward repairing: it's a lid switch, lid lock, coupling, actuator, or belt; the washer is under about 7 years old; or the motor part is free under Kenmore's lifetime coverage.
Why 50%? It's the common rule of thumb, and the one we use. Some technician checklists draw the line a little higher, at about 60% of a new washer's price, so treat a repair that costs 50–60% of new as a second-quote zone, not an automatic replace. The older the washer, the lower the line should go: once it has used more than half its expected life, the same repair buys fewer years.
Who services Kenmore washers near you
1. Kenmore warranty service. In year 1, or for a drive motor under the lifetime coverage, start with Kenmore's warranty line. Kenmore says defects must be verified by a Kenmore authorized service representative.
→ Kenmore: warranty information · 1-844-553-6667
2. Sears Home Services (paid repair). Sears still repairs Kenmore and other brands. It's a paid service outside warranty.
→ Sears Home Services
3. A partner appliance pro (out of warranty).
Our call line connects you with an independent appliance repair provider in your area. Tell them your full model number (including the 110 / 796 / 417 prefix), whether it agitates, whether it drains, and any lights or codes.
Our partner pro call line is coming soon. Until then: if your appliance may still be under warranty, contact the manufacturer first. Otherwise, get two or three written quotes from local appliance repair companies, and ask about the diagnostic fee and the parts-and-labor warranty.
4. DIY with the right part. Lid switches, lid locks, couplings, actuators, and belts are common DIY jobs. Order by your exact model number.
Questions to ask any technician:
- Did you check the load, spin speed, detergent, and drain hose first?
- Is it the lock, the actuator, the coupling, the motor, or the board? How did you confirm it?
- Is the motor covered by Kenmore's lifetime motor warranty on my purchase date?
- Can you split the quote into part, labor, and trip fee?
Optional: is an appliance warranty worth it?
A home warranty (service contract) can cover repairs for a yearly fee plus a per-visit service fee. Read the exclusions carefully: many plans exclude problems caused by overloading or installation. A washer that's already broken is usually not covered.
FAQ
Why is my Kenmore washer not spinning?
Kenmore's guide lists a tightly packed or unbalanced load, a low-spin cycle, too much or non-HE detergent, small items in the pump, and a drain hose pushed more than 4.5 inches into the standpipe. The lid must also be closed and locked for spin. If those are fine, the part depends on who built your model.
Who makes my Kenmore washer?
Check the first three digits of the model number before the dot. Parts retailers list 110 as Whirlpool, 796 as LG, and 417 as Frigidaire. Most Kenmore top-loads are 110 models.
Why is the spin light on my Kenmore washer?
Kenmore's guide says it means the washer couldn't pump out the water within 10 minutes. Check the drain hose, clogs, suds, and small items caught in the pump.
Why is the Lid Locked light flashing on my Kenmore washer?
Either the lid isn't closed, or you paused the washer and the basket is still slowing down. The lid won't unlock until the basket stops, which can take several minutes.
How do I reset a Kenmore washer that won't spin?
Sears Home Services suggests unplugging the washer for 2 minutes to reset the control boards, then trying Drain/Spin.
Does Kenmore's warranty cover the motor?
For purchases dated on or after February 4, 2018, Kenmore supplies a free replacement drive motor for as long as the washer is used. After year 1 you pay installation, and the lifetime coverage doesn't extend to related parts.
Is it worth fixing a Kenmore washer that won't spin?
Usually, if it's a free fix or a cheap part like a lid switch, coupling, actuator, or belt, or a motor under Kenmore's lifetime coverage. A board on an older Kenmore often leans toward replacing. Use the calculator above.
About the author
Fix It or Replace editorial team — We research appliance repairs using manufacturer documentation, parts-supplier data, and current US cost guides, and we cite every source below. We are not appliance technicians; for anything involving wiring, call a qualified pro.
Last updated: 2026-10-30.
Sources
- Kenmore US: "Warranty Information" (revised January 10, 2024; warrantor Transform SR Brands Management LLC; washers: one year free repair or replacement from the date of original sale; lifetime free replacement washer drive motor for purchases dated on or after February 4, 2018, installed free in year 1, supplied but not installed after year 1, doesn't apply to other related components, defects verified by a Kenmore authorized service representative; 90 days for non-household use; exclusions incl. instruction, expendable items such as belts, house fuses, circuit breakers, wiring and plumbing, missing or altered model and serial plate; proof of original sale; 1-844-553-6667). https://www.kenmore.com/warranty-information (accessed 2026-10-30)
- Kenmore top-loading washer use-and-care guide, models 110.22532512 and 110.20232711 (05/2016), hosted by Sears PartsDirect (lid locks before spin, self-test clicking; Lid Locked light; lid open 10 minutes cancels and drains; Soak drains but doesn't spin; Drain/Spin; troubleshooting "not draining/spinning, loads still wet, or spin light remains on (unable to pump out water within 10 minutes)": small items in the pump or between basket and tub, low-spin cycles, tightly packed or unbalanced loads, drain hose no more than 4.5 in (114 mm) into the standpipe, hose form, no tape, lower the hose if higher than 96 in, remove clogs; too much detergent slows or stops draining and spinning, use Rinse/Spin; HE detergent only; load loosely, dry items, add only one or two items after start, don't add water; Lid Locked light flashing: lid not closed, or the basket still spinning after a pause; support 1-844-553-6667). https://c.searspartsdirect.com/mmh/lis_pdf/OWNM/1709420L.pdf (accessed 2026-10-30)
- Sears Home Services: "What to Do When Your Washer Won't Spin: Pro Tips" (updated Jan. 6, 2026; causes: motor or motor control board, drive belt or pulley, drain pump, lid or door lock/switch; check power and breaker; unplug 2 minutes to reset boards; resolve drain problems; inspect belt and pulley; check the lid switch clicks; broken motor coupler; HE detergent; avoid overloading; clean the front-load drain pump filter; forcing a cycle can overheat the motor). https://www.searshomeservices.com/blog/what-to-do-when-your-washer-wont-spin-tips (accessed 2026-10-30)
- Kenmore US: manuals lookup. https://www.kenmore.com/manuals (accessed 2026-10-30)
- PartSelect: "Sears and Kenmore Appliance Fault Codes — Model Prefix Chart" (first three digits before the decimal point identify the manufacturer; 110 = Whirlpool, 417 = Frigidaire). Retailer source, not Kenmore. https://www.partselect.com/justforfun/Sears-And-Kenmore-Appliance-Fault-Codes.htm (accessed 2026-10-30)
- Parts Dr: "Who Made My Sears Kenmore Appliance? Model Number Prefix Guide" (110 = Whirlpool; 796 = LG for laundry). Retailer source, not Kenmore. https://partsdr.com/blog/who-made-my-sears-kenmore-appliance/ (accessed 2026-10-30)
- Whirlpool-family cross-reference (labeled platform facts for 110 models): our Whirlpool washer not spinning, Maytag washer not spinning, and Amana washer not spinning guides (Whirlpool, Maytag, and Amana US Product Help). LG-family cross-reference for 796 models: our LG washer not spinning guide (LG US Support).
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: recalls search. https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls (accessed 2026-10-30)
- Federal Trade Commission: endorsement and affiliate disclosure guidance. https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/resources/ftcs-endorsement-guides-what-people-are-asking
- Part prices: Sears PartsDirect public search pages, see S-list below (accessed 2026-10-30).
- Repair cost guides: Fixr (G1) and HomeGuide (G2), see list below (accessed 2026-10-30).
- ApplianceDB free developer sample (checked for Kenmore US washer codes; none in the sample, so not used for this page's tables). Data under the Open Database License (ODbL) v1.0. https://github.com/ApplianceDB/ApplianceDB-public (accessed 2026-10-30)
Part price sources (Sears PartsDirect public search results for "kenmore washer …", USD, accessed 2026-10-30; Whirlpool-family numbers for 110 models, with LG and Frigidaire numbers listed separately where returned; GE (WH…), Samsung (DC…), Crosley, unlabeled Kenmore-catalog numbers, terminals, plungers, magnets, strikes, clips, filters, hoses, covers, refurbished, commercial, and gear-case listings excluded; prices change, confirm with your model number):
- S1. Search "kenmore washer lid switch": Whirlpool-family WP8318084 $28.60, WP3355806 $33.98, WP3355458 $36.03, WP3949238 $37.16, WP8054980 $110.62; LG EBF61215202 $121.33, EBF61674802 (lid lock and switch) $146.12. https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=kenmore%20washer%20lid%20switch
- S2. Search "kenmore washer drive belt": Whirlpool-family WP95405 $17.98, WPW10006384 $23.88, W11239857 $33.98, WP8540101 $39.76, WPW10260319 $41.48, WPW10388414 $42.68, WPW10388418 $52.92; Frigidaire/Electrolux 134511600 $18.26, 134616700 $50.83. https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=kenmore%20washer%20drive%20belt
- S3. Search "kenmore washer drain pump": Whirlpool-family W10536347 $27.76, WP3363394 $35.14, WP3363892 $81.60; LG 4681EA2001T $43.13, 4681EA1007A (Kenmore Elite) $125.80; Frigidaire 137108000 $122.27, 132611913 $143.42. https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=kenmore%20washer%20drain%20pump
- S4. Search "kenmore washer drive motor": Whirlpool-family WP661600 $138.89, W10832724 $192.51, W11026785 $194.12, WPW10677715 $200.22, W11191299 laundry center $209.06, WPW10140581 $284.76, WP8529935 $286.25, WPW10006415 $311.82, WP3352287 $317.83. https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=kenmore%20washer%20drive%20motor
- S5. Search "kenmore washer motor coupling": 285753A $21.07, 285852A $26.38. https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=kenmore%20washer%20motor%20coupling
- S6. Search "kenmore washer clutch": 285785 $32.14, WP8299642 $69.58, W10754448 $102.17, WP3953062 $125.66 (clutch band and LG shifter assembly excluded). https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=kenmore%20washer%20clutch
- S7. Search "kenmore washer door lock": Whirlpool-family lid locks W10404050 $49.07, WPW10619844 $75.46; front-load door locks WP8182634 $98.09, WPW10253483 $158.95, WPW10375379 $200.52; LG EBF49827801 $81.23; Frigidaire 131763256 $124.36. https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=kenmore%20washer%20door%20lock
- S8. Search "kenmore washer shift actuator": W10913952 $13.57, W10913953 $36.24, W11511138 $41.89, WPW10006355 $55.31, W11481722 $73.62. https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=kenmore%20washer%20shift%20actuator
- S9. Search "kenmore washer control board": Whirlpool-family W10634102 $200.92, W10672907 $227.68, WPW10525354 $235.32, W10683781 $239.18, W10671326 $248.77, W10632925 $252.79; LG EBR85130521 $240.43, EBR86771809 $295.64, EBR79950242 $436.21, EBR80321818 (Kenmore Elite) $436.21. https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=kenmore%20washer%20control%20board
Pro-cost guide sources [GUIDE] (US national averages, parts + labor, not brand-specific quotes; the guide pages carry 2023–2025 dates, so local quotes may differ):
- G1. Fixr, "How much does it cost to repair a washing machine?" (updated January 31, 2025): average $150–$400; lid switch $85–$160; door lock $110–$200; shock absorber $150–$300; pump $300–$400; motherboard $250–$400; motor $300–$500; diagnosis visit $50–$100; replacement $650–$2,100. https://www.fixr.com/costs/washing-machine-repair (accessed 2026-10-30)
- G2. HomeGuide, "How Much Does Washing Machine Repair Cost? (2026)" (byline April 5, 2023): average $100–$400; door lock or lid switch $100–$300; belt $100–$200; shock absorbers $100–$350 (full set); pump $150–$350 (part $20–$100); control board $350–$550; motor $300–$700; minimum service fee $70–$130, then $50–$125 per hour; new washer $700–$1,300; washers last 8–13 years. https://homeguide.com/costs/washing-machine-repair-cost (accessed 2026-10-30)
Disclosure
Fix It or Replace is an independent site. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Kenmore, Transformco, Sears, Whirlpool, LG, or Electrolux/Frigidaire. "Kenmore" is a trademark of its owner and is used here only to describe the products we cover.
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