Wma Drum Bearing Replacement

This answer was posted in January 2003, just a few years after Hotpoint introduced the new WMA range of washing machines, which seemingly suffered from a drum bearing problem. By now it's unlikely that any WMA washing machine affected by the premature drum bearing failure issue would only just be affected.

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I've been called out to dozens of these washing machines, where the drum bearings have failed just out of guarantee or under 2 years old. I've advised each customer to complain to Hotpoint. I've also asked them all to contact me if they have any problems and none have done so. I assume they got something sorted, although it could be they just didn't bother getting in touch with me. This shouldn't be happening. Drum bearings would mostly last the life of the washing machine if they could just stop water getting into them, which is the reason they fail in the vast majority of cases. Unfortunately, drum bearing failure on Hotpoint washing machines has been far too common.

I know of at least one customer who got the machine exchanged after the drum bearings failed at 14 months. Technically, the washing machines are covered by a free 5-year parts guarantee, but labour is chargeable under this scheme. They no doubt will be treating cases on an individual basis. I have no idea how big a problem it is, but it should not be happening on washing machines made by a company that's made them for many years.

However, although Hotpoint appear to have been responding to customer complaints about the premature drum bearing failure, it should be noted that they are not legally responsible. The people legally responsible are the people you bought the washing machine from. ( Related: Washing machine consumer advice )

I've looked into the repair of the WMA range drum bearings and although drum bearings are available as spare parts - Hotpoint say that special tools are needed to fit them. Their technical information also says that you should replace the back half of the tub which comes with them pre-fitted - Hotpoint appliance spares

(Remember that this specific issue is regarding the WMA range of washing machine (model number begins with WMA) and not previous Hotpoint models such as WM or earlier.)

[uPDATE]

Unfortunately some of the later Hotpoint washing machines have sealed tubs meaning you cannot replace drum bearing at all and would need to fit an entire new tub and drum assembly. Check the Hotpoint spares link above to find out about bearings for your model.