If your Whirlpool dryer drum is squeaking, the sound usually comes from worn moving parts: drum rollers, belt, rear bearing, or the idler pulley that keeps tension on the belt. The good news: these are common wear items and often fixable without replacing the whole dryer.
1. Quick safety scan (10–30 seconds)
Before you spin or touch anything, take a moment to check:
- Any burning smell or melted plastic smell?
- Visible scorch marks around the drum or vent?
- Dryer cabinet unusually hot to the touch?
- Breaker tripped recently when the squeak was loudest?
2. What the squeak is telling you
Different squeak patterns often hint at different parts:
- Squeak only at start, then fades: early roller or idler wear.
- Constant squeak while running: worn roller, belt, or bearing.
- Rhythmic squeak in a pattern: flat spot on roller or spot on belt.
- High-pitched metallic squeal: dry bearing or metal contact.
3. Quick tests before opening the cabinet
Unplug the dryer first, if your manual allows these checks.
- Open the door and spin the drum by hand. Do you hear the squeak without power?
- Listen from the back of the dryer while someone spins the drum. Louder at the rear = rollers or rear bearing.
- Listen from the front bottom. Front/bottom noise = idler pulley or front bearing.
4. Most likely causes on Whirlpool dryers
- Worn drum rollers – especially on the back wall.
- Dry or worn drum bearing – rear support on some models.
- Cracked or slipping belt – squeals as it moves over pulleys.
- Noisy idler pulley/tensioner – common Whirlpool wear point.
5. DIY fixes – easiest to hardest
1) Lubricate or replace drum bearing
On models that use a rear drum bearing, a dry or worn bearing can squeak loudly.
- Unplug the dryer.
- Access rear panel as shown in your manual.
- Inspect bearing for scoring, grooves, or dryness.
- Use high-temp machine oil only if manufacturer allows, otherwise replace the bearing assembly.
2) Replace the belt
A stretched, cracked, or glazed belt can squeak while still turning the drum.
- Unplug dryer and remove front panel (per manual).
- Release belt tension at idler pulley.
- Remove old belt and install new one along drum and pulleys.
- Double-check routing with diagram inside cabinet or manual.
3) Replace drum rollers
If the squeak is from the back of the dryer and rollers feel rough, this is often the real fix.
- Remove drum following your model’s instructions.
- Spin each roller by hand — any roughness or resistance means replace.
- Install new rollers and ensure they spin freely.
Popular Whirlpool dryer repair kits
- Whirlpool drum roller + belt + idler pulley kit
- High-temp machine oil (if approved by manual)
- Basic nut-driver set for appliance work
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6. When to stop DIY and call a technician
It’s time for a pro if:
- The squeak is getting worse every cycle.
- Drum slows down, struggles, or stops while squeaking.
- You see metal shavings, heavy scoring, or broken parts.
- You’re not comfortable opening the cabinet or handling belts and rollers.
Later, FixifyHome will include a “Check my dryer noise” tool to guide you through these steps in order and help decide if a technician is worth the cost.
7. Whirlpool dryer squeak – FAQ
Can I still use my dryer if it squeaks?
You usually can for a short time, but squeaks almost always get worse — they’re a sign that parts are wearing out.
How much does a repair usually cost?
Many parts kits are in the $20–$60 range. Labour varies by region, but a proper repair is often cheaper than replacing the whole dryer.
Will lubrication alone fix it?
Sometimes lubrication can quiet a bearing temporarily, but worn parts usually need replacement to stay quiet long-term.