Whirlpool Washing Machines Washer Not Agitating: How to Fix It Yourself
If your Whirlpool top-load washer fills with water but the agitator does not move back and forth, the most common cause is worn agitator dogs — small plastic pieces inside the top of the agitator. They cost about $5 and most people can replace them in under 30 minutes. It is one of the easiest washer repairs there is.
⚠️ Safety First
- Unplug the washer before doing any work inside it.
- The agitator can be heavy — lift carefully.
- Do not reach under the machine while it is running.
Parts You May Need
Step-by-Step Repair
- 1
Unplug the washer
Pull the plug from the wall. Make sure the tub is empty or mostly empty before you start.
- 2
Remove the agitator cap and bolt
The top of the agitator usually has a cap you can pry off with a flathead screwdriver. Under the cap you will find a bolt or nut (usually 7/16 inch). Remove it with a socket wrench. Some models have a fabric softener dispenser on top — twist it off first.
- 3
Pull the agitator out
Grab the agitator firmly and pull straight up. It may take some force. Wiggle it back and forth while pulling if it is stuck. On dual-action agitators, the top half may come off separately from the bottom.
- 4
Replace the agitator dogs
Turn the top part of the agitator upside down. Inside you will see small cam pieces (the agitator dogs). They are about 1 inch long and have teeth on them. If the teeth are worn smooth, that is your problem. Pull out the old ones and snap the new ones in with the teeth facing the same direction.
- 5
Reassemble the agitator
Put the agitator back together and push it down into the tub. Tighten the bolt and snap the cap back on. Make sure the agitator sits firmly on the drive shaft.
- 6
Test it
Plug the washer in and run a small wash cycle. The agitator should move back and forth vigorously. If it still does not agitate, the motor coupler may be broken — that is the next thing to check.
If That Didn't Work
- Broken motor coupler (connects motor to transmission)
- Worn drive belt (belt-drive models)
- Failed motor
- Stripped agitator splines (the teeth where agitator meets shaft)
When to Call a Professional
If new agitator dogs do not fix it, the motor coupler is the next likely cause. Replacing it requires removing the cabinet and motor — a bit more involved but still doable for handy people. If you are not comfortable with that level of disassembly, a tech will charge $130–$220 for the repair.
Related Repairs
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional repair advice. All repairs are performed at your own risk. RepairItFree.com is not liable for any personal injury, property damage, device damage, voided warranties, or other losses resulting from the use of this information.
If you are unsure about any step — especially anything involving electricity, gas, water, or refrigerant — stop and consult a qualified professional. Your safety is more important than saving money.
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