GE
Agitator / Drive System Failure
Top-load GE washer fills but does not agitate; motor hums or clicks.
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Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
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Possible Causes
Worn drive belt (belted models), Failed mode shifter or actuator, Broken agitator dogs or splines, Failed drive motor
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety First: Unplug the washer before accessing the bottom or motor area.
- Check for error lights: Some GE top-loaders flash status LEDs; note any pattern for reference.
- Inspect agitator: Try to turn the agitator by hand. If it spins freely without moving the tub, the agitator coupling or dogs may be stripped and need replacement.
- Access belt and motor: Tilt the washer back or remove the rear panel to inspect the drive belt. Replace if loose, cracked, or broken.
- Check mode shifter/actuator: On GE Hydrowave and newer models, the mode shifter engages agitate vs spin. Inspect its wiring and replace the shifter/actuator assembly if it fails continuity tests.
- Test motor: If the belt and shifter are good but the motor only hums, the motor may be failing and should be replaced.
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Repair Difficulty
Medium
3/5
Required Part
GE Drive Belt, GE Mode Shifter / Actuator, GE Agitator Coupling, GE Drive Motor
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