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ErrBase

Kenmore Dryer Making Squeaking, Thumping, or Grinding Noise

Quick Answer

Kenmore dryer noise types: SQUEAKING during tumbling = drum rollers need lubrication or replacement ($15-25 set). Squeaking that stops when you push the drum up = rear drum bearing worn.

Kenmore dryer noise types: SQUEAKING during tumbling = drum rollers need lubrication or replacement ($15-25 set). Squeaking that stops when you push the drum up = rear drum bearing worn. THUMPING rhythmically = something caught between drum and cabinet, or drum rollers with flat spots. GRINDING = idler pulley bearing seized, felt seal worn, or foreign object scraping. HUMMING without drum turning = belt broken, motor trying to spin. On LG-made Kenmore dryers, the drum rollers are the most common noise source. On Whirlpool-made, the drum glides (Teflon pads at the front of the drum) wear and cause a scraping noise.

KenmoreDryerSeverity: mediumDifficulty: intermediate75% DIY Success
Time to Fix
15–90 min
Difficulty
intermediate
Parts Cost
$10 – $25
Tools Needed
Multimeter, Screwdriver

What Does the NOISE Code Mean?

Kenmore dryer noise: squeaking = drum rollers ($15-25 set) or rear bearing.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Drum rollers worn or flat-spotted40%
Idler pulley bearing seized24%
Drum glides/slides worn (Whirlpool-made)14%
Belt fraying before breaking12%
Rear drum bearing dry or worn10%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • Appliance noise
  • Performance issue
  • May show error code

Can you reset a Kenmore dryer to clear the NOISE code?

Unplug 60 seconds. Plug in and test.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

MultimeterScrewdriverFlashlight

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

1

Check the most common cause described in the guide above.

Check the most common cause described in the guide above.

2

Check secondary causes and error codes if displayed.

3

If basic checks fail, consult a professional or run manufacturer

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name
Drum Roller KitModel-specific · $15–$25
Drum Glide KitModel-specific · $10–$20

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $18 (Parts) vs $700 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Kenmore dryer noise repair cost?
Most repairs cost $100-400 depending on the component. Simple fixes like cleaning or resetting are free.
Is my Kenmore dryer worth repairing?
If under 10 years old and repair is under 50% of replacement cost, repair is worthwhile.
Can I fix this myself?
Many fixes are DIY with basic tools. Gas and sealed-system repairs need a professional.

Models Known to Experience NOISE Errors

This repair applies to most Kenmore dryers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

796.81182310, 110.67032600

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 15, 2026