Whirlpool WTW5057LW0 Loud Noise on Agitation Cycle – What Causes It and How to Fix It
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
If your Whirlpool WTW5057LW0 makes a loud grinding, clicking, or banging noise specifically during the agitation portion of the wash, the issue is most often mechanical — worn agitator components, a failing drive block/agitator cam, or a compromised transmission/gearcase. These noises appear when the agitator is forced to engage but the small plastic parts that transfer motion have become stripped, broken, or loose. In some cases the problem can be caused by a foreign object (coin, bra wire) lodged between the inner tub and outer tub or by a loose agitator bolt and washer. Diagnosing this requires removing the agitator cap and visually inspecting the internal components. If the small nylon agitator dogs (also called cogs) or the drive block are worn or missing, the agitator can slip and make loud clicking/grinding. If the gearcase is failing you may hear a metal-on-metal grinding or howl even when the agitator parts look intact. Replacing the failed part usually cures the noise and prevents further damage to the transmission.
Common Symptoms
Loud clicking, grinding, or banging only during agitation; agitator slips or spins without moving clothes properly; intermittent noise that changes with load; visible broken plastic pieces under the agitator cap.
Common Causes
- Worn or broken agitator dogs (cogs) that allow the agitator to slip
- Damaged agitator cam / drive block (agitator coupling) that no longer engages
- Loose or stripped agitator bolt or accompanying washer
- Failing transmission/gearcase producing metal grinding noises
- Foreign object (coin, safety pin, bra wire) trapped between tubs
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at PartsDiscount.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
Remove the agitator cap and run a short agitation-only test (lid locked) while watching/listening — if you see the small plastic dogs skipping or you hear clicking coming from the agitator area, the agitator dogs or drive block are the likely culprits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much will it cost to fix the loud noise?
If the problem is agitator dogs or the drive block, parts typically cost $20–$80 and a DIY replacement can take 30–90 minutes. If the gearcase/transmission needs replacement the repair is more expensive — parts alone often run $200–$400 and labor can push a total repair to $300–$600 depending on rates. Always verify the exact part number for your model before purchasing.
Can I replace the agitator parts myself, or do I need a technician?
Many owners can replace agitator dogs, the drive block, or the agitator bolt themselves with basic hand tools. Key tips: unplug the washer and shut off the water, remove the fabric dispenser/agitator cap, remove the bolt securing the agitator, and inspect the plastic dogs and cam. Take photos as you disassemble so you can reassemble correctly. If you find metal grinding from the gearcase or are uncomfortable removing the transmission, call a professional — transmission replacement is heavier and more complex.
Real DIY Repair Stories
Be the first to share your repair story!
Share Your Repair Story
Your experience helps other homeowners fix their appliances. Tell us how it went!
Can't Fix It Yourself? Find a Local Technician
It's perfectly okay to call a professional. Some repairs require specialized tools, deep teardowns, or dealing with complex systems that are better left to the pros.
Find the Right Part for Your Appliance
Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at PartsDiscount.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.
Your Free Parts Videos
Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to PartsDiscount.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.