When your dryer motor failure, the component that spins the drum and powers airflow in a tumble dryer. Also known as tumble dryer motor, it’s one of the most critical parts in your dryer—without it, the drum won’t turn, no matter how good the heat is. You’ll notice it right away: the dryer hums but doesn’t spin, or it starts then stops after a few seconds. This isn’t just an annoyance—it’s a clear signal something’s broken inside.
Most dryer motor failures happen because of wear, overheating, or debris buildup. Over time, the bearings inside the motor wear down from constant spinning. If lint builds up around the motor or the vent is clogged, the motor has to work harder, overheats, and burns out faster. It’s not usually a power surge or a faulty switch—it’s simple, slow degradation. And if your dryer is older than 8 years, the motor is likely near the end of its life. A new motor costs between $100 and $250, plus labor. But here’s the catch: if the motor’s gone, other parts like the drum rollers or belt are probably worn too. Replacing just the motor might fix it for a year… or just a month.
That’s why so many people end up replacing the whole dryer instead. A new model is more energy-efficient, quieter, and comes with a warranty. But if your dryer is under 5 years old, and you’re handy with tools, replacing the motor yourself can save you hundreds. You’ll need a multimeter to test the motor, a screwdriver set, and maybe a new belt and drum rollers while you’re in there. Some brands make it easy—others feel like a puzzle with no picture on the box.
And don’t confuse motor failure with a broken belt or a tripped thermal fuse. A broken belt means the drum doesn’t spin, but the motor still runs. A bad thermal fuse cuts power entirely—you won’t hear a hum at all. The motor makes noise when it’s failing: a high-pitched whine, a grinding sound, or just a quiet click when you hit start. If you hear anything unusual, don’t ignore it. A failing motor can overheat and damage the control board, which costs way more to fix.
What you’ll find in the posts below are real fixes from people who’ve been there. You’ll see how to test the motor with a multimeter, which brands have the most reliable motors, and why some repairs just aren’t worth it. We’ve got step-by-step guides on replacing the motor, tips on avoiding future failures, and even which dryers to avoid if you want to skip this headache altogether. No fluff. No theory. Just what works—and what doesn’t—when your dryer stops spinning.
8 December 2025 · 0 Comments
If your tumble dryer runs but the drum won’t spin, it’s usually a broken belt, worn rollers, or a bad capacitor. Learn how to diagnose and fix the most common causes yourself before calling a technician.
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