Your Kenmore washer model 110 fills with water and washes clothes perfectly. But when the spin cycle arrives, nothing happens or the drum barely rotates. Clothes emerge soaking wet and dripping. You’re left manually wringing water from heavy fabrics. So, why won’t you Kenmore washer model 110 spin?
A Kenmore washer model 110 won’t spin due to a failed lid switch, broken motor coupling, worn drive belt, damaged clutch assembly, or transmission problems. The lid switch is the most common culprit in this direct-drive model, followed by the motor coupling that breaks from years of shock absorption during startup cycles, making these the first two components to test when diagnosing spin failures.
What Makes the Kenmore Washer Model 110 Unique
The Kenmore 110 represents decades of design evolution. Models span from the 1980s through the 2010s with various iterations.
All share a basic mechanical design philosophy. These washers prioritize reliability over electronic complexity.
The model number 110 followed by additional digits identifies specific variations. The complete number appears on a sticker inside the washer lid or on the back panel.
Most 110 models use direct-drive systems. The motor connects to the transmission with minimal intermediate components.
Understanding your specific model year helps identify which components it uses. Early models differ from late models in some respects.
Parts remain widely available for all 110 variations. This long production run ensures continued support.
Quick Diagnostic for a Kenmore Washer Model 110 That Won’t Spin
| What’s Happening | What You Hear | Most Likely Cause | Check This First |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nothing at all | Complete silence | Lid switch failure | Test lid switch click |
| Motor runs, drum still | Motor sound only | Motor coupling broken | Look for plastic pieces |
| Weak spin only | Normal motor sound | Worn clutch assembly | Note if clothes stay wet |
| No spin or agitate | Dead silence | Drive belt broken | Check for belt |
| Buzzing or humming | Loud hum, no motion | Jammed transmission | Try rotating drum manually |
| Intermittent spin | Clicking sounds | Loose wiring or timer | Check connections |
| Drains then stops | Pump noise only | Lid switch or timer | Verify lid closes properly |
Kenmore Washer Model 110 Troubleshooting
The Kenmore washer model 110 troubleshooting process follows a logical sequence. Start with simple checks before disassembling components.
This systematic approach saves time and prevents unnecessary repairs.
Initial System Check
Select a spin-only cycle. Watch and listen carefully to what happens.
Does the lid lock engage? You should hear a click if your model has electronic lid locks.
Does the motor make any sound? Running motors with stationary drums point to drive train problems.
Complete silence suggests electrical issues. The motor isn’t receiving power to operate.
Note the exact behavior. Document sounds, movements, or error codes that appear.
Visual Inspection Process
Open the lid and manually rotate the drum. It should turn freely with moderate resistance.
Excessive resistance suggests a jammed transmission or brake. Very free spinning might indicate a broken belt.
Check for visible belt damage. Some 110 models allow belt inspection without full disassembly.
Look under the washer for debris. Broken coupling pieces or belt fragments fall to the floor.
Inspect the lid switch area. Damage or misalignment prevents proper switch engagement.
Auditory Diagnosis
Different sounds provide specific diagnostic information. Listen carefully during spin attempts.
A humming motor means the motor receives power but can’t turn. Something blocks rotation.
Clicking or grinding suggests mechanical interference. Parts are hitting each other inappropriately.
A buzzing sound indicates the motor tries to start but can’t overcome resistance. Capacitors or motor windings might have failed.
Complete silence means no power reaches the motor. Check electrical connections and the lid switch.
Understanding Load Impact
Try a spin cycle with a small, well-balanced load. Note if behavior changes with load size.
Some problems only appear with heavy loads. Weak clutches slip under weight but work with light loads.
Severely unbalanced loads trigger safety shutdowns. The washer refuses to spin to prevent damage.
If spinning works with small loads but fails with normal loads, suspect clutch or belt wear.
Kenmore Washer Agitates But Won’t Spin
This specific symptom narrows down possible causes significantly. Components that work for agitation but fail for spinning are limited.
The higher speed and torque of spinning stresses components differently than agitation.
Lid Switch Testing
The lid switch is the commonest explanation for this symptom. It must confirm closure before high-speed spinning.
Many 110 models allow agitation with the lid open but prevent spinning. This safety feature protects users.
Close the lid and listen for a click. Some models click audibly, others click softly.
Watch the control panel. Lid lock indicators should illuminate when the switch engages.
Motor Coupling Inspection
The motor coupling can fail partially. It works for low-speed agitation but breaks under spin stress.
You’ll hear the motor running during spin attempts. The drum doesn’t move despite motor operation.
Remove the cabinet to inspect the coupling. Look for cracked plastic or missing rubber sections.
White or black plastic pieces under the washer confirm coupling failure. These fragments fall during operation.
Replacing the Motor Coupling
Unplug the washer completely. Turn off water supply valves.
Remove the cabinet by unscrewing retaining clips. Access the motor from above.
Disconnect motor mounting bolts. Typically three or four bolts hold the motor.
Slide the motor away from the transmission. The coupling sits between these components.
Remove the broken coupling pieces. Clean both shafts thoroughly.
Install the new coupling. Ensure it seats properly on both motor and transmission shafts.
Reconnect the motor and test operation. The repair takes 30-45 minutes.
Motor couplings cost $10-25. This is one of the most cost-effective repairs.
Clutch Assembly Wear
The clutch engages during spin to lock the basket. Worn clutch pads slip instead of gripping firmly.
Agitation doesn’t use the clutch, so it works normally. Spinning requires clutch engagement.
Listen during spin attempts. A slipping clutch makes grinding or squealing sounds.
Note if the drum spins weakly instead of not at all. This suggests clutch wear rather than complete failure.
Clutch replacement requires more extensive disassembly. This repair takes 1-2 hours.
Consider professional help for clutch replacement. The complexity exceeds typical DIY comfort levels.
Kenmore Washer Won’t Spin or Agitate Just Buzzes Hums
A humming or buzzing motor that doesn’t turn indicates serious mechanical binding. The motor can’t overcome resistance.
This symptom requires immediate attention. Extended humming damages motor windings.
Jammed Transmission Diagnosis
Something locked inside the transmission prevents rotation. This creates immovable resistance.
The motor energizes but can’t turn. It draws excessive current trying to overcome the jam.
Turn off the washer immediately if humming continues. Don’t damage the motor.
Try rotating the drum manually. Use significant force to test for movement.
If the drum won’t budge at all, the transmission has jammed or seized. This is a serious failure.
Stuck Brake Assembly
The brake should release during operation. A stuck brake acts like a parking brake during driving.
The motor tries to turn against brake resistance. This creates loud humming without movement.
Access the brake by removing the cabinet. Look for the brake assembly near the transmission.
Check if the brake releases when manually actuated. It should move freely.
Rust or corrosion locks brakes in the engaged position. Clean pivot points thoroughly.
Lubricate moving parts with appropriate grease. Use only washer-approved lubricants.
Replace the brake assembly if cleaning doesn’t restore function. These cost $30-60.
Motor Start Capacitor Failure
The start capacitor helps the motor develop starting torque. A failed capacitor prevents motor startup.
The motor hums without turning. It can’t generate enough torque to begin rotation.
Locate the start capacitor near the motor. It’s a cylindrical component with wire connections.
Test the capacitor with a multimeter (View on Amazon) set to capacitance mode. Compare readings to the capacitor’s rated value.
Replace capacitors reading outside tolerance. These typically cost $15-35.
Use exact replacement capacitors. Voltage and capacitance ratings must match precisely.
Foreign Object Obstruction
Items wedged between the basket and tub prevent rotation. Socks, bras, and small items commonly cause this.
The motor tries to turn but hits immediate resistance. Humming results from the blocked rotation.
Remove the agitator if possible. Look down into the basket for trapped items.
Shine a flashlight around the basket perimeter. Check for fabric caught between moving parts.
Small items sometimes lodge in the pump or transmission. These require disassembly to access.
Kenmore Washer Model 110 Won’t Spin or Drain
When both drainage and spinning fail, the problems typically share a common cause. These functions occur in sequence.
The washer must drain before spinning. Standing water prevents high-speed rotation.
Drainage System Verification
Start by confirming drainage actually fails. Run a drain-only cycle if available.
Listen for the drain pump motor. You should hear humming or buzzing during drainage.
If the pump runs but water remains, check for blockages. Inspect the pump filter and drain hose.
If the pump doesn’t run, test electrical connections. The pump might not receive power.
Clear drainage issues before investigating spin problems. Spinning can’t work with water in the tub.
Lid Switch Double Impact
The lid switch must confirm closure for both draining and spinning. A failed switch stops all functions.
Many 110 models won’t drain or spin with an open lid. This safety feature is critical.
Test the lid switch using methods described earlier. Look for the click and test continuity.
Replace the lid switch if it fails testing. This single repair often fixes both problems.
The lid switch costs $15-35 and installs in 15-20 minutes. This is the most common fix.
Timer Malfunction
The mechanical timer advances through wash phases. A stuck timer prevents reaching drain and spin.
Listen for the timer motor ticking during operation. This subtle sound indicates proper advancement.
If you hear no ticking, the timer motor has failed. The washer stays stuck in wash mode.
Try manually advancing the timer. Turn the dial to the spin position.
If manual advancement makes drain and spin work, the timer motor failed. Replace the entire timer assembly.
Timers cost $60-120 depending on the model. Installation requires careful wire tracking.
Control Board Issues (Newer Models)
Later 110 models use electronic controls instead of mechanical timers. These boards can fail.
The control board signals both the drain pump and spin functions. Board failure stops both.
Test for power at the drain pump during drain cycles. Use a multimeter for accurate readings.
If no power reaches the pump with the board signaling drain, the board has failed.
Control board replacement costs $150-250. Verify the diagnosis thoroughly before ordering.
Kenmore Washer Model 110 Won’t Spin or Agitate
Complete loss of all drum movement indicates a major drive train failure. Several components can cause this.
These failures are more serious than spin-only problems. The entire drive system is affected.
Broken Drive Belt
Belt-drive 110 models fail completely when the belt breaks. Neither agitation nor spinning works.
The motor runs normally. You hear it operating during cycles.
The drum doesn’t move at all. No agitation or spinning occurs despite motor operation.
Check under the washer for belt pieces. Broken belts often leave fragments on the floor.
Replacing the Drive Belt
Access the belt by removing the cabinet. The belt wraps around motor and transmission pulleys.
Note the belt routing before removal. Take a photo for reference during installation.
Remove the old belt from both pulleys. Clean any rubber residue from the pulley surfaces.
Install the new belt on the motor pulley first. Stretch it onto the transmission pulley.
Check belt tension after installation. It should deflect about 1/2 inch with firm pressure.
Drive belts cost $15-30. Installation takes 30-45 minutes.
Complete Motor Coupling Failure
The motor coupling can break completely. Both agitation and spinning fail simultaneously.
Broken plastic pieces fall under the washer. These are visible evidence of coupling failure.
The motor runs but the transmission doesn’t receive power. Nothing moves regardless of cycle.
Replace the coupling using the procedure described earlier. This is a common and easy repair.
Transmission Seizure
A completely seized transmission prevents all movement. This is a catastrophic failure.
The motor hums loudly when trying to turn. Excessive current can damage motor windings.
Don’t let the motor run against a seized transmission. Turn off the washer immediately.
Try rotating the drum manually with significant force. A seized transmission won’t move at all.
Transmission replacement costs $200-400. On older washers, replacement makes more sense financially.
Shift Actuator Failure (Newer Models)
Some 110 models use shift actuators. These move the transmission between agitate and spin modes.
A failed actuator leaves the transmission in neutral. Nothing engages for either function.
Listen during the wash cycle. You should hear clicking or whirring from the actuator.
Complete silence from the actuator suggests failure. The transmission never receives engagement signals.
Replace failed shift actuators. These cost $45-80 and take 45-60 minutes to install.
How Do You Reset a Kenmore Washer Model 110?
The model 110 spans many years with different control types. Reset procedures vary by model year.
Mechanical timer models and electronic control models require different approaches.
Mechanical Timer Reset
Older 110 models use mechanical timers. These rarely need electronic resets.
Turn the timer dial to the Off position. Wait 30 seconds with the washer off.
Unplug the washer from the wall outlet. Wait 60 seconds before plugging back in.
This allows the timer motor to fully stop. Residual momentum in mechanical timers can affect operation.
Plug the washer back in. Turn the dial to a spin cycle position.
Pull out the timer knob or press Start. The washer should begin the selected cycle.
Electronic Control Reset
Newer 110 models with digital displays use electronic controls. These benefit from proper resets.
Press and hold the Start/Pause button for 5 seconds. Some models require 7 seconds.
Unplug the washer from the outlet. Don’t use the circuit breaker for this step.
Wait 60 full seconds. This allows capacitors to discharge completely.
Plug the washer back in. Wait 30 seconds for the control board to initialize.
The display should light up and return to a ready state. Error codes should clear.
Factory Reset Procedure
For persistent problems, perform a factory reset. This returns all settings to defaults.
Turn off the washer completely. Wait for all indicator lights to go dark.
Press and hold specific button combinations. Common combinations include Start + Signal or Start + Soil Level.
Hold for 3-5 seconds. All lights should flash or the display shows a special pattern.
Release the buttons. The washer processes the factory reset.
This erases any custom cycle settings. You’ll need to reprogram preferences afterward.
Calibration Reset
Some 110 models benefit from sensor recalibration. This resets load sensing systems.
Empty the washer completely. Remove all clothes and items.
Select a Normal cycle. Press and hold two specific buttons simultaneously.
Common combinations include Temp + Soil Level or Heavy Duty + Delicate.
Hold for 3 seconds. The washer enters calibration mode.
Let the calibration sequence complete. This takes 2-5 minutes.
When Resets Don’t Work
If multiple reset attempts produce no change, you have a hardware failure. Software resets can’t fix broken components.
Move to systematic component testing. Check the lid switch, motor coupling, and drive belt.
Document what happens during reset attempts. Note any sounds, movements, or error codes.
Resets help with electronic glitches only. Mechanical failures require physical repair.
Sometimes, however, your washer might have seen its better days and thus needs a replacement. Find the latest Kenmore washers on Amazon!
Advanced Diagnostic Techniques
For problems that persist after basic troubleshooting, these advanced methods help identify failures. Most require some technical knowledge and testing equipment.
Electrical Testing
Use a multimeter to verify electrical functions. Test for proper voltage at key components.
Check the outlet voltage first. It should read 115-125 volts AC.
Test for power at the motor during cycles. The motor should receive approximately 120 volts.
Check the lid switch continuity as described earlier. Proper switching is essential.
Test the timer or control board outputs. These should signal components at appropriate times.
Mechanical Component Testing
Feel for proper mechanical operation. Moving parts should operate smoothly.
Rotate the drum manually. Note any roughness, grinding, or binding.
Push on the motor mounting. Loose motors cause intermittent problems.
Check belt tension on belt-drive models. Proper tension is critical for function.
Inspect all visible components for damage. Cracks, wear, or breakage indicate replacement needs.
Load Testing
Behavior under different load conditions reveals specific problems. Test with various loads.
Try a spin cycle with no load at all. This tests basic mechanical function.
Add a small, balanced load. Note if spinning works differently.
Test with a normal load properly distributed. Compare performance to small load testing.
Try an intentionally unbalanced load. The washer should detect this and adjust.
Performance changes across these tests pinpoint whether the problem is load-related or mechanical.
Maintenance to Prevent Spin Problems
Regular maintenance prevents many spin failures. These simple tasks extend washer life significantly. Most maintenance requires just minutes per month.
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Prevents |
|---|---|---|
| Test lid switch operation | Monthly | Premature switch failure |
| Check drive belt (if equipped) | Every 6 months | Belt breakage |
| Inspect motor coupling area | Annually | Unnoticed coupling damage |
| Clean tub and basket | Monthly | Buildup affecting movement |
| Verify level position | After moving | Excess vibration and wear |
| Balance loads properly | Every wash | Clutch and suspension damage |
| Avoid overloading | Every wash | All component strain |
Proper Loading Practices
Never overload the washer. Fill the tub only to about 3/4 capacity.
Overloading stresses every component. The motor, coupling, clutch, and transmission all work harder.
Distribute weight evenly around the agitator. Don’t pile everything on one side.
Mix large and small items. This promotes natural balance during spinning.
Add a few towels to small loads. Tiny loads can be just as problematic as overloads.
Early Problem Detection
Listen for new or unusual sounds. Changes in noise patterns indicate developing problems.
Note if clothes are damper than usual. This suggests reduced spin effectiveness.
Watch for longer cycle times. The washer takes longer when components struggle.
Pay attention to vibration changes. Increased shaking suggests balance or mounting issues.
Address small problems immediately. Minor issues prevented become major failures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Kenmore 110 agitate but not spin?
The lid switch is the most common cause. It must confirm lid closure before allowing high-speed spinning.
Many models allow agitation with an open lid but prevent spinning for safety. This protects users from injury.
Test the lid switch by listening for a click and checking continuity with a multimeter. Replace switches that fail these tests.
The motor coupling is the second most common cause. It can work for low-speed agitation but fail under spin stress.
Look for broken plastic pieces under the washer. These confirm coupling failure.
How much does it cost to fix a Kenmore 110 that won’t spin?
DIY repairs cost $10-80 for most spin problems. Lid switches cost $15-35, motor couplings run $10-25, and drive belts are $15-30.
Clutch replacement costs $40-70 in parts. This repair is more complex than others.
Professional repairs run $150-350 including labor. Service calls start at $75-100.
Transmission work costs $300-500. This repair often isn’t worthwhile on older machines.
Most spin problems are DIY-fixable. You save significantly doing repairs yourself.
Can I use my washer if it won’t spin?
You can wash clothes but must manually wring them out. This is exhausting and time-consuming.
Don’t let wet clothes sit in the washer. Mildew develops within hours.
Transfer soaking wet clothes to the dryer only if you’re willing to run multiple drying cycles. Excess water strains dryers.
Fix the spin problem promptly. Manual water removal isn’t sustainable long-term.
How long does a motor coupling last?
Motor couplings typically last 10-15 years with normal use. Heavy use shortens this lifespan.
Overloading accelerates coupling wear. Excessive weight creates more shock during startup.
Frequent large loads strain the coupling. The component fatigues faster under constant stress.
Coupling failure is normal wear, not premature failure. Expect replacement during the washer’s lifespan.
Why does my washer make noise but not spin?
A humming motor with no movement indicates jammed components. The motor can’t overcome resistance.
This might be a seized transmission, stuck brake, or foreign object obstruction. All prevent rotation.
Turn off the washer immediately. Extended humming damages motor windings.
Try rotating the drum manually. Significant resistance confirms mechanical jamming.
Is the lid switch expensive to replace?
Lid switches cost $15-35 depending on the specific model. This is one of the least expensive washer repairs.
Installation takes 15-20 minutes with basic tools. Most homeowners can complete this repair.
The switch often lasts 10-15 years before failing. It’s a common wear item.
This cost-effective repair fixes many spin problems. Always test the lid switch first.
Can a timer cause spin problems?
Yes, a faulty timer can prevent spin cycles. The timer must advance to the spin phase.
Mechanical timer motors fail and stop advancing. The washer gets stuck in wash mode.
Electronic control boards also fail in ways that affect spinning. These are more expensive to replace.
Test by manually advancing the timer to spin. If this works, the timer advancement mechanism failed.
What causes a clutch to wear out?
Normal friction during engagement wears clutch pads gradually. Heat from this friction degrades materials.
Overloading accelerates clutch wear significantly. Excessive weight puts more stress on the pads.
Unbalanced loads force the clutch to work harder. The washer struggles to spin uneven weight.
Expect clutch replacement after 15-20 years. This is normal wear for this component.
Also Read:
- Why Your Kenmore Washing Machine Fills with Water Then Stops (Fixed)
- Why Your Kenmore 80 Series Washer Isn’t Spinning (Fixed)
When Professional Help Makes Sense
Some repairs exceed typical DIY capabilities. Know when to call for professional assistance.
Transmission work requires extensive disassembly and specialized knowledge. Consider professional help for these repairs.
If you’ve tested multiple components without finding the problem, get expert diagnosis. You might be missing something.
Electrical problems benefit from professional testing equipment. Technicians pinpoint issues faster and more accurately.
Warranty coverage makes the decision easy. Always use warranty service when coverage applies.
Get quotes from at least three service providers. Prices vary significantly between companies.
Getting Your Model 110 Spinning Again
A Kenmore washer model 110 won’t spin for identifiable reasons. The systematic approach in this guide helps you diagnose efficiently.
Start with the lid switch. This simple test solves the majority of spin problems.
Check the motor coupling next. Look for broken plastic pieces confirming failure.
Inspect the drive belt if your model has one. Replace worn or damaged belts.
Test the clutch if other components check out. Slipping clutches cause weak or failed spinning.
With basic tools and patience, you can fix most spin problems yourself. You’ll save hundreds in service call costs while keeping this reliable workhorse running for years to come.
Regular maintenance and proper loading prevent most spin issues. These simple practices extend the life of all washer components significantly.