Why Is My Siemens Washing Machine Vibrating So Much?
Check that all four transit bolts have been removed from the back of the machine — leaving even one in place causes severe vibration during every spin cycle (takes about 5 minutes).
Fault description
Excessive vibration in a Siemens washing machine is one of the most common complaints homeowners report, and the good news is that the majority of cases have a straightforward cause that you can address yourself. The problem typically becomes most obvious during the spin cycle, when the drum reaches high speed and any imbalance or instability is amplified into noticeable shaking, loud banging, or the machine physically moving across the floor.
The washing machine's drum, suspension system, and levelling feet all work together to absorb movement and keep the appliance stable. When any one of these elements is compromised — or when the load inside the drum is unevenly distributed — the machine cannot dampen the forces generated at spin speed. Understanding which part of that system is failing helps you fix the problem quickly and avoid unnecessary wear on other components.
Causes
- Transit bolts not removed — Siemens washing machines are shipped with metal transit bolts fitted to the rear panel to lock the drum in place during transport. If these bolts are still in position, the drum cannot move freely and the machine will vibrate violently on every spin cycle.
- Uneven or unlevel floor surface — If the machine is not sitting perfectly level, the drum's rotation creates a rocking motion that worsens as spin speed increases. Even a slight tilt of a few millimetres is enough to cause significant shaking.
- Incorrectly adjusted levelling feet — Each of the four adjustable feet must be in firm contact with the floor and locked in position. A foot that is too high, too low, or not locked will allow the machine to rock during operation.
- Unbalanced laundry load — A single heavy item such as a duvet, towel, or jeans can clump to one side of the drum during spinning, creating an off-centre weight that causes severe vibration. The machine may pause and attempt to redistribute the load, but this does not always succeed.
- Worn or damaged drum bearings — Over time, the bearings that support the drum shaft can wear out, causing the drum to run with a wobble. This is usually accompanied by a loud rumbling or grinding noise that gets worse as the machine ages.
- Faulty or worn shock absorbers or suspension springs — The shock absorbers and springs are designed to dampen drum movement during spinning. If one or more have weakened or broken, the drum will bounce and vibrate excessively rather than spinning smoothly.
Step-by-Step Fix
- 1
Check for and remove transit bolts
Look at the back panel of your Siemens washing machine for two to four large plastic-capped bolts, usually arranged in a row. Use a spanner to remove them fully and keep them in a safe place in case you move home. Once removed, the plastic spacers should also come out — consult your manual if you are unsure which holes to check.
- 2
Level the machine using a spirit level
Place a spirit level on top of the machine, first front-to-back and then side-to-side. The bubble should sit exactly in the centre. If it does not, the machine needs adjusting before you go any further.
- 3
Adjust and lock all four levelling feet
Tilt the machine slightly and turn each foot by hand — clockwise to lower, anticlockwise to raise — until all four are in firm contact with the floor. Once level, tighten the lock nut on each foot up against the machine's base to prevent them from moving during operation. Recheck with the spirit level after locking.
- 4
Redistribute or reduce the laundry load
Open the door and manually spread the laundry evenly around the drum. Avoid washing a single heavy item on its own — add a couple of similar items to balance the load. Overloading the drum can also cause vibration, so make sure you are not exceeding the maximum load stated in your model's manual.
- 5
Inspect the shock absorbers for visible damage
With the machine unplugged, remove the front or rear panel (depending on your model) to access the shock absorbers. These are cylindrical dampers connecting the outer drum to the machine's frame. Look for oil leaks, broken clips, or a damper that moves too freely with no resistance — any of these indicate a failed unit that needs replacing.
- 6
Check the suspension springs
While the panel is off, inspect the springs that hang the drum from the top of the cabinet. A spring that has snapped or stretched significantly will allow the drum to sit lower on one side, causing an imbalance. Replacement springs are a straightforward part to source and fit.
- 7
Test the drum bearings
With the machine empty and unplugged, reach inside and try to move the drum up and down by hand. A small amount of play is normal, but if you feel significant movement or hear a grinding sound when you rotate the drum slowly by hand, the bearings are likely worn and will need professional replacement.
When to call a service technician
If you have completed all the steps above and the machine is still vibrating excessively, or if you can hear a loud grinding or rumbling noise during the spin cycle, the drum bearings are the most likely culprit. Bearing replacement requires dismantling a significant portion of the machine and pressing new bearings into the drum housing — this is not a straightforward DIY job and is best handled by a qualified service technician.
You should also call a service technician if you notice the drum visibly dropping to one side, if the machine is making a loud banging noise that sounds like the drum striking the cabinet, or if water is leaking from the rear of the machine — all of which can indicate structural damage to the suspension or drum assembly that needs professional assessment.
Prevention
Keeping your Siemens washing machine stable and vibration-free over the long term comes down to a few simple habits. Always check that the levelling feet are secure every six months or after the machine has been moved for any reason. Avoid regularly washing single heavy items and try to keep loads balanced and within the recommended weight limit. Running a drum-clean cycle monthly also helps prevent build-up that can affect drum balance.
The parts most commonly replaced when dealing with excessive vibration on Siemens washing machines are the shock absorbers (dampers), the drum suspension springs, and the drum bearings. Shock absorbers and springs are relatively affordable and straightforward to fit yourself; bearings are more involved. You can find compatible parts for your specific model using the tool below.
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Frequently Asked Questions
My Siemens washing machine only vibrates on the spin cycle — is that normal?
Some vibration during spin is normal because the drum is rotating at high speed. However, if the machine is moving across the floor, making loud banging noises, or shaking the surrounding units, that level of vibration is not normal and points to one of the causes listed above. Start by checking the levelling feet and load balance.
Can I still use the machine if it is vibrating a lot?
It is best to resolve the issue before continuing to use the machine regularly. Persistent excessive vibration puts stress on the drum bearings, shock absorbers, and internal connections, which can turn a simple fix into a more expensive repair. If the vibration is caused by transit bolts or levelling, fix it immediately — it takes only a few minutes.
How do I know if my Siemens washing machine transit bolts are still fitted?
Look at the back panel of the machine for a row of large bolts, usually with coloured plastic caps or covers. Your machine's installation manual will show their exact location and how many there are — typically two to four. If the machine has never been installed before or was recently moved, there is a good chance they are still in place.
How much does it cost to replace shock absorbers on a Siemens washing machine?
Shock absorbers for Siemens washing machines are generally an affordable spare part. If you are comfortable doing the repair yourself, the parts alone are the main cost. If you prefer a service technician to carry out the work, factor in a call-out fee and labour on top of the parts cost.
Will putting the washing machine on an anti-vibration mat help?
An anti-vibration mat placed under the machine can reduce the noise and movement transmitted to the floor, and is a useful addition once the underlying cause has been fixed. However, a mat alone will not solve the root problem if the machine has faulty shock absorbers, worn bearings, or is not properly levelled — always address the cause first.