Washers
Washer shakes violently, walks, or shows an unbalanced error
Some shaking at high spin is normal. Violent shaking, a washer that moves across the floor, or repeated unbalanced errors point to the load, the levelling or the suspension. On many newer front-loaders, a vibration sensor also decides when to slow the spin.
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Safe checks before you book
- Redistribute the load. Single heavy items or a waterlogged comforter cause most unbalanced spins.
- Level and lock the feet. Check each foot is on the floor and the lock nuts are tight. Rock the corners to test.
- Shipping bolts. On a new or recently moved front-loader, make sure the shipping bolts at the back were removed.
- Note the error. Codes such as UE, UB or OE-type unbalanced codes help the technician narrow it down.
Unplug first. Switch off power (and close the water or gas supply where it applies) before looking behind or inside an appliance. If anything feels unsafe, stop and call.
What usually causes it
| Worn shock absorbers or springs | The tub isn't damped, so it hits the cabinet. |
|---|---|
| Vibration (MEMS) sensor | Many front-loaders use an accelerometer-type sensor to measure tub movement. A faulty one can stop spins or report imbalance with a balanced load. |
| Suspension rods (top-loaders) | Worn rods let the tub swing. |
| Failed bearings | A loose tub with a roaring noise at spin. |
When to stop and call
The washer moves across the floor or hits walls. Stop the cycle to avoid damaging hoses and floors.

What the visit costs
The diagnostic is free when you approve the repair and it's completed. You get the cause, the parts, labour and total in writing before any work. If you don't go ahead, it's $89 + tax for a home electric appliance, or $149 + tax for a gas appliance.
Repairs that fix this
Washer shock absorber and suspension repairShock absorbers (front-loaders) and suspension springs or rods (top-loaders) damp the tub's…Washer vibration (MEMS) sensor repairMany newer front-loaders measure tub movement with a small accelerometer-type (MEMS) sensor and use…