Why Is Your Whirlpool Cabrio Washer Not Spinning?

The spin cycle on a washer is an essential part of the washing process—it’s where all the excess water gets removed, ready for the clothes to be dried. It’s also the part of the cycle that can most easily go wrong, even with a super reliable washing machine model like a Whirlpool Cabrio. In this guide, we walk you through the most common reasons for a Whirlpool Cabrio washer not spinning and help you with some simple solutions. 

This guide applies to all major models of Whirlpool Cabrio washers, including:

WTW6200SW0

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WTW6200VW0

WTW6200VW1

WTW6300SB0

WTW6300SB1

WTW6300SB2

WTW6300SG0

WTW6300SG1

WTW6300SG2

WTW6300SW0

WTW6300SW1

WTW6300SW2

WTW6300WW0

WTW6400SW0

WTW6400SW1

WTW6400SW2

WTW6400SW3

WTW6600SB0

WTW6600SB1

WTW6600SB2

WTW6600SB3

WTW6600SG0

WTW6600SG1

WTW6600SG2

WTW6600SG3

WTW6600SW0

WTW6600SW1

WTW6600SW2

WTW6600SW3

Unbalanced Load

If your Whirlpool Cabrio isn’t spinning, the first thing to check is whether there is an unbalanced load. If the load is too heavy and clumps to one side, the washer won’t be able to spin properly, which may result in it stopping mid-spin cycle or displaying an error code. This happens because the washer’s sensors detect an imbalance, and prevent the spin cycle from continuing to avoid damaging the appliance. This is more likely to occur if you’re washing large, bulky items like blankets or towels. 

To prevent unbalanced loads from occurring:

• Follow your washer’s instructions regarding load size—ensure you’re not washing too much at once. 
• Don’t mix heavy items such as towels or blankets with lighter items. 
• Use a slower spin speed for bulky items. 
• If you notice signs of an unbalanced load, like a loud spin cycle, pause the machine and adjust the load before continuing. 

Faulty Lid Switch

The lid switch on a washer ensures that the washing machine can’t be opened while the spin cycle is running. This is for your safety, as it ensures that you can’t be injured by the spinning blades. It also prevents water from spraying out of the machine and getting everything wet! If the lid switch is faulty, your machine could be sensing that the lid is open even when it’s closed, which would mean that the spin cycle won’t engage. 

To check if this is your issue, listen for an audible “click” when you close the lid to your washer. If you can’t hear one, inspect the lid switch for any damage or debris that might be stopping it from engaging. If you notice any issues, your lid switch will need to be fixed. 

To fix:

• Unplug the washer.
• Check the lid switch for any obvious damage. If it is blocked with debris or slightly bent, try clearing the debris or bending it back into place. 
• Test the lid switch with a multimeter. If it doesn’t show continuity, it’ll need replacing. 
• Order a replacement lid switch online. 
• Remove the old lid switch, ensuring you carefully disconnect all the wires. Take a photo or otherwise make a note of how it was connected to ensure you can install the new switch correctly.
• Connect the new switch to the wiring harness and screw it into place. 
• Plug your washer back in and run a test cycle to ensure that the spinning issue has been fixed. 

Broken Drive Belt

In a top loader washer, the drive belt wraps around the drum and threads through the motor and pulleys, rotating the drum. The belt is like a big rubber band, but it can get worn or frayed over time, and can sometimes even break. If it’s damaged, your drum won’t be able to spin properly, or might not spin at all. If there is an issue with the belt, you might notice a clanking sound when your washer tries to spin, or you might notice nothing happening at all. 

To fix this issue:

• Unplug the washer from the power source. 
• Use a furniture dolly to move the washer away from the wall. 
• Remove the back panel of your washer to access the dryer belt.
• Inspect the belt closely for damage. If it appears frayed, stretched, broken, or cracked, it will need replacing. 
• Order a replacement belt, ensuring it is compatible with your specific Whirlpool Cabrio model.
• Remove the damaged belt and put the new one in its place, ensuring it is properly tensioned. 
• Replace the back panel and put your washer back in place. Then turn it on and run a test cycle to ensure that the washer’s spin cycle is working correctly. 

Malfunctioning Motor

The motor of your Whirlpool Cabrio washer is what powers the machine, and if it’s faulty it can result in your washer spin cycle not working, as well as issues with the agitation cycles. If the motor is faulty you might notice strange noises, or there might be complete silence when the spin cycle is supposed to be running. 

To fix this:

• Unplug the washer from the power source.
• Remove the washer from the wall to access the back panel. 
• Remove the back panel of the washer and visually inspect the motor. If it has any cracks or appears damaged, it will need replacing. 
• If it appears fine visually, test it with a multimeter to ensure it has continuity. If there is no continuity, the motor is faulty and needs replacing. 

If you determine it to be faulty, you have two options—you can either order a replacement part online and replace it yourself, or you can call in a professional. This is a relatively complex operation, so only attempt a repair if you’re confident at performing electrical DIY. Replacing a motor can also be expensive, so make sure you take into account the age and state of your washer before undertaking expensive repairs—it may be more financially sensible to just replace the machine.