Shock absorbers are tube-like components that aid in dampening the washtub movement, especially during the spin cycle. These components are usually made up of metals and durable plastic material and can last anywhere between 10 to 20 years if used with care.
Usually, there are two to four shock absorbers installed in a washer depending on the type and the model of your washer.
In today’s post we will cover:
- How long do Washing Machine Shock Absorbers last??
- Symptoms of a bad shock absorber in a washer?
- Replacing the shock absorber.
- Commonly Asked Questions
- And More…
Let’s dive into it.
Table Of Content
- How long do Washing Machine Shock Absorbers last?
- What are the symptoms of a bad shock absorber in a washer?
- Why do the shock absorbers wear out in a washing machine?
- Do all washing machines have shock absorbers in them?
- How to replace the shock absorber of the washer?
- Final Thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions
How long do Washing Machine Shock Absorbers last?
In a washing machine, most of its components are designed to last for a long time ranging anywhere between 15 – 20 years.
Likewise, the shock absorbers can last up to 10 years or more depending on the usage and care. In fact, shock absorbers can last as long as the washer lasts if used with care.
Washer parts usually last longer than what the manufacturers claim for most users.
Of course, there can be few exceptions, but generally, the shock absorbers may be long enough.
What are the symptoms of a bad shock absorber in a washer?
If your top-load washer is vibrating in an unusual manner and making a loud banging noise during the spin cycle, it’s an indication that the shock absorbers may have been impacted.
Unusual vibration and loud sound can also be a symptom of other internal damage components too, therefore it’s important that you get the vibration issue checked with an expert.
Having said that, an unbalanced drum, excess vibration, loud sound, and the washer tilting towards one side are good indicators of a damaged shock absorber.
If these symptoms are ignored, the unusual washtub movement can cause damage to other parts of your washer.
Why do the shock absorbers wear out in a washing machine?
The shock absorbers tend to wear out due to several factors such as frequent overloading, damaged or worn-out connected components, age of your washer, tilting base, etc.
The more you care the longer they last, hence use your washer wisely and with care.
Timely servicing of your washer will not only help in prolonging the washer’s life but also maintain its efficiency in the long run.
Do all washing machines have shock absorbers in them?
Most top-loaders work with suspension rods and some have shock absorbers installed.
Similarly, front-load washing machines have shock absorbers that are installed to absorb OR reduce the tub movement, especially during the High-Speed spin cycle.
The shock absorbers or struts are attached to the base frame and the outer tub.
Most front loaders may have 4 shock absorbers installed, 2 at the front and the other 2 at the rear panel.
In order to access them, you will have to remove the front panel as well as the rear panels.
How to replace the shock absorber of the washer?
Depending on your washer model simply access the location of the shock absorbers.
Usually, you will find them between the base and outer tub of the washer.
For some washers, it becomes easy to access them by removing the back cover or the back panel.
Most washers may require removing the front cover or detaching the outer body, which is a time-consuming process.
Let’s take a quick look at the steps to replace the shock absorbers.
Steps to Replace the Shock Absorbers
- The first step is to unplug the washer from the power supply and disconnect the water supply from your washer.
- Using a screwdriver unscrew the bolts from the front panel and remove them by gently sliding back.
- Remove the drawer located at the lower panel and then detach the lower panel.
- Carefully unscrew and remove the top panel to avoid any damage to electrical supplies that run through the function display panel.
- Unscrew the bolts from the front of your machine and carefully secure them.
- Under the outer tub of your washer, you will find the shock absorbers installed.
- Unscrew the bolts that hold the shock absorbers.
- Detach the Shock Absorbers.
- Now replace the new shock absorbers with care.
Note: Before replacing the shock absorbers you may want to inspect them to make sure if it is actually problematic as there can be the same symptoms for two different issues.
Final Thoughts
Different washers use different mechanisms to achieve one common objective or function.
You need to identify the components before even starting the investigation.
Therefore, if you are unable to locate the internal components in your washer, it’s best to consult an expert and avoid experimenting with your washer.
Replacing a part in the washing machine can be done at home if you are confident enough, or you may call an expert to get the diagnosis done.
Frequently Asked Question
Last but not least, let’s take a quick look at the common questions that are asked very often.
What happens if the shock absorbers turn bad in my washer?
If one or more shock absorbers of your washer break or crack, your washer may start shaking or may vibrate in an unusual manner during the wash cycles. You may have to quickly get this inspected and fix them accordingly to avoid further damage to other components of your washer.
Is it easy to replace the shock absorbers of my washer?
It completely depends on how confident you are in DIY electronic fixing, as it may require detaching the front or the rear panels of your washer with the help of screwdrivers and supporting pliers. Simply, locate and replace them as per the instructions in the user manual of your washer.
