Problem summary
A loud banging or thumping noise during the wash cycle on your LG freestanding washing machine is usually a sign that a wear part is failing or something is trapped in the drum. This is a common fault and often fixable without major expense.
Likely causes
Our service records show three main culprits account for most cases:
Drum bearing wear (52% of reports). The drum spins on bearings that can wear over time, causing metal-to-metal contact and a pronounced banging sound. Wear is usually gradual but can worsen quickly once started.
Door seal damage (43% of reports). A torn or hardened rubber seal allows items to slip between the outer drum and the rotating inner drum, causing loud impacts as the drum spins. Leaks often accompany this fault.
Heater element contact (38% of reports). If the heating element mounting becomes loose, it can strike the rotating drum during the cycle, producing a loud clang or bang, usually in the early stages of a wash.
Other possibilities include a loose pump impeller, worn pulley, or an object (coin, wire from an underwire, bone button) trapped between drums.
What you can try yourself (DIY)
Before calling a service engineer, run through these checks:
- Stop the machine immediately if it's running. Do not ignore the noise or continue use — continued operation can worsen damage.
- Open the door and inspect the rubber seal around the inside edge. Look for visible tears, hardening, or black mould. If damaged, the seal will likely need replacement.
- Manually spin the drum (unplugged) by hand through the open door. Feel for grinding, resistance, or rough spots. Smooth rotation is normal; grinding suggests bearing wear.
- Check the filter (usually at the base front of the machine). Remove it and look for coins, clips, or debris that might have worked loose and rattled into the drum area.
- Inspect visible hoses and the pump at the back if you're comfortable removing the rear panel. Look for loose clips or obvious damage.
If you find a torn seal or trapped object, these are often replaceable by a confident DIYer; if the drum feels rough or grinding is evident, the machine will need professional attention.
When to call SMC Services
If the noise continues, the drum feels rough when spun by hand, or you notice water leaking, book a service call. Bearing wear and seal failure worsen rapidly and can cause further internal damage if left unchecked.
If you're in Northern Ireland, SMC Services can usually book a repair within 2–3 working days.