Can I keep running the equipment with this fault active?

Generally no. Faults on Appliance units are emitted when a sensor, safety, or control circuit is outside its operating envelope. Running through an active fault risks compressor, heater, or control-board damage. Diagnose and clear the fault first.

What part is most commonly replaced for Whirlpool Washer Shock Absorber / Suspension Rod Kit Replacement?

The most frequently replaced parts for Whirlpool Washer Shock Absorber / Suspension Rod Kit Replacement are listed in the Parts Reference section of this guide with OEM part numbers and typical price ranges. Check the table for direct replacements.

Is Whirlpool Washer Shock Absorber / Suspension Rod Kit Replacement a DIY repair or do I need a technician?

Sensor swaps, fan motor replacements, and condenser cleaning are typical DIY-level repairs. Anything involving refrigerant, gas, or high-voltage (>240V) work requires a licensed technician for both safety and code-compliance reasons.

Whirlpool Washer Shock Absorber / Suspension Rod Kit Replacement

Q: What does Whirlpool Washer Shock Absorber / Suspension Rod Kit Replacement mean?

Worn suspension rods cause tub bounce, loud banging, and off-balance shaking. Replacing the rod kit with matching balls and bushings stops the vibration and recenters the tub.

Q: How do I fix Whirlpool Washer Shock Absorber / Suspension Rod Kit Replacement?

Follow the step-by-step diagnosis below. The most likely fix is identified by checking power, sensor resistance, and control-board signals in order — using a multimeter and the part numbers documented in the parts reference table.

Whirlpool Washer Shock Absorber / Suspension Rod Kit Replacement — What This Part Does

The suspension rod kit dampens the movement of the washer tub during spin and agitation cycles. Each rod uses a ball-and-bushing connection at the tub and chassis to absorb shock and keep the inner tub centered. When the rods wear out or the plastic bushings and balls crack or deform, the tub can no longer rebound or stay level, so the washer shakes violently or bangs against the cabinet.

Most Whirlpool top-load models use a set of four suspension rods anchored at each corner of the tub. Over time, normal use wears down the rod ends and support points, and chronic overloading accelerates the damage. Once the suspension system fails, the tub will not return to center after being pressed down, and you will hear metal-on-metal contact or feel the whole machine walking across the floor.

Jump to Replacement Steps

Signs It Needs Replacing

Tub does not return to center after pressing down Push down on the wash plate or agitator and release, and the tub keeps bouncing side to side instead of quickly recentering.
Loud banging or crashing noise during spin The tub slams against the inside of the cabinet because the worn rods cannot absorb the movement.
Washer shakes violently or walks across the floor Off-balance vibration gets worse with each cycle because the suspension system no longer dampens the tub motion.
Tub stays tilted or leans to one side When one or more rods are broken or the bushings are cracked, the tub cannot stay level at rest.
Cracked or missing plastic bushings or ball cups Inspect the rod ends and chassis support points for visible damage or loose components when the top is removed.
Washer stops mid-cycle with unbalanced load message Poor tub control from worn rods triggers repeated off-balance stops because the tub cannot settle.

How to Replace It

Unplug the washer from the wall outlet and shut off both hot and cold water supply valves.
Remove the console or top panel by unscrewing the rear screws (or releasing front clips under the top edge, depending on your cabinet style) and lift the top, then secure the lid so it cannot swing open.
Press down on the wash plate or agitator and release to confirm the tub does not quickly recenter and continues to bounce, then rock the tub side to side to verify suspension failure.
Disconnect each old suspension rod by rotating or unseating the plastic cradle or hook at the tub end, then pull the rod free from the chassis support point at the bottom.
Remove the worn bushings and balls from the tub and chassis mounting points, noting the orientation and position of each component for the new kit.
Feed each new suspension rod through the cabinet and tub openings, seat the new balls into the tub cradles, and snap or hook the new bushings onto the chassis support points in the same orientation as the old parts.
Verify that all four rods are fully seated at both ends, the tub sits level, and the bushings and balls match the kit design at each corner.
Reassemble the top panel or console, tighten all screws, and reconnect any harnesses or hoses that were moved during disassembly.
Run a spin test with a medium load to confirm the washer no longer bangs, shakes, or walks, and the tub recenters correctly after the cycle.

The Part You Need

Part	Notes
Suspension rod kit (4 rods, 4 balls, 4 bushings)	Amazon \| Look up your exact kit using the model and serial number on the plate inside the washer lid or on the back panel, because rod length and bushing design vary by Whirlpool model.

If this part is failing you may also see one of these codes:

When to Call a Pro

If the new rods do not stop the vibration or the tub still tilts after correct installation, the tub bearings or drive system may also be damaged and you will need a technician to diagnose the additional fault. If you cannot lift the cabinet top or the rod ends do not match the mounting points after you receive the kit, call a pro to verify the correct part and complete the swap. Mixing incompatible bushings or rods can leave the tub unlevel and cause further damage.