The Most Common Causes
These are the failure modes our technicians see most often on this symptom — listed in rough order of frequency. We don't publish step-by-step repair instructions for liability reasons, but the diagnostic process below identifies which one applies to your machine before any parts get swapped.
Worn shock absorbers (front-loaders)
The dampers under the tub wear out and the drum bounces during spin. Loud banging that gets worse with full loads. Replacing all four restores stability.
Failing tub bearing
The classic grinding/roaring sound during spin, especially as it ramps up. On older units the cost of bearing replacement vs. a new machine becomes a real conversation.
Drive belt slipping or motor coupler failing
Squeals at start of spin, sometimes accompanied by a burnt smell. Inexpensive parts, easy diagnosis.
Loose or broken spider arm (front-loaders)
The aluminum bracket that holds the drum to the shaft corrodes and breaks. Severe grinding and pounding. Major repair — replacement often makes more sense.
Object lodged in pump or between tub and basket
Coins, hairpins, underwire bras. Random rattle or grinding that comes and goes with cycle phase. Quick fix once located.
The Honest Answer
Shocks, belts, couplers, and lodged objects — yes, every time, $200–$350 range. Tub bearings and spider arms are the borderline calls because the labor is heavy. We give you the cost of the repair and the cost of replacement so the choice is honest. Parts availability and labor complexity matter more than the age of the machine. A well-built ten-year-old appliance with an available part is often worth fixing twice. A newer unit with a discontinued board is the harder call. Our techs lay both options out side-by-side — repair cost vs. replacement cost — and let you decide. Try the replacement calculator for a quick framing, but every situation is different.
The 4-Option Technician Decision Report
After your $50 Quick Check (or $100 in-home diagnostic), a real technician — not a chatbot — reviews your model, video, and symptoms. They build a Technician Decision Report with four honest options:
You pick which option works for you. No surprises, no hidden costs. We don't share specific part numbers — we source the parts ourselves and ship them directly to your door, so you never have to hunt for the right SKU.
Real Numbers, No Mystery
Most repairs for this symptom land in the range below. The diagnostic confirms exactly which job it is before any quote — and the diagnostic fee credits toward your repair labor.
People Also Ask
Other Things That Could Be Wrong
Middle TN + Louisiana
Whether you're in Nashville or Hammond, the diagnostic process is the same. We service Middle Tennessee and Louisiana with six experienced technicians.
Outside the cities listed? Chat with Ant — we'll confirm coverage before you pay anything.
Chat with Ant — Get a Real Answer Today
Chat with Ant — tell us what's wrong, share a quick video and your model number photo, and a real technician will build your Technician Decision Report. No hold music, no guessing, no commitment until you see your options.