Problem summary
Your Samsung WW90 washing machine has stopped spinning, and you may notice a smell of smoke or burning coming from the appliance. This is a safety concern and requires prompt attention.
Likely causes
Based on 36 similar faults we've repaired, the spin fault usually stems from one of three areas:
Control board (PCB) – about 36% of cases involve the printed circuit board that controls the motor and spin cycle. Electrical faults here may cause the spin function to cut out entirely. A burnt smell often indicates thermal damage to the board.
Pump blockage or failure – about 19% of cases involve the drain pump. If the pump cannot empty water properly, the machine will not spin as a safety measure. A blockage (lint, foreign objects, detergent residue) is common; sometimes the pump motor itself fails.
Door seal degradation – about 17% of cases involve the rubber door seal. If the seal leaks during the wash cycle, water may escape and trigger a fault code or safety shutdown that prevents spinning.
Why this needs an engineer
The components involved in a spin fault — the control board, pump, motor connections, and sealed door assembly — all require specialist diagnosis and repair. The smell of smoke is particularly important: it suggests electrical burn-out or motor overheating, which presents a safety risk and must not be ignored.
Do not attempt to: - Open the appliance or access internal components yourself. - Run the machine again until it has been inspected. - Disassemble the door seal or pump without proper training.
Attempting DIY repairs on these parts risks electrical shock, water damage, or further component failure.
Warning signs that need immediate professional attention
- Any smell of smoke or burning.
- Water leaking from the door.
- Visible damage to the rubber seal.
- The machine making unusual grinding or squealing noises during the spin phase.
- Error codes displayed on the control panel.
When to call SMC Services
If your WW90 won't spin—especially with a burning smell—book a qualified engineer visit as soon as possible. A technician will test the control board, pump, and door seal to identify the root cause, and advise you on repair costs before proceeding.
If you're in Northern Ireland, SMC Services can usually book a repair within 2–3 working days.