# Troubleshooting a Belt in Your Washing Machine
Belts are the primary way that many washing machines transfer power from motors to other moving parts. A faulty belt can cause a variety of symptoms, including causing the machine to spin weakly or not at all and the machine's failure to agitate. If the machine is pumping and filling, it's a good idea to check the belt on the washer. While the procedure is simple, you cannot troubleshoot the belt without examining it. Either the belt is tight or it's slipping.
Instructions
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1
Remove the back cover of the washing machine and look for the belt or a place where a belt might have been. It should run from a spindle on the motor to a spindle on the tub. Tip the washer forward and check the bottom of the machine if the back has no belt access.
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2
Check the belt's tension by plucking the belt. Listen for it to make a "ping" sound. Test the belt for play by moving it from side to side; it should give slightly but no more than 1/4 inch in any direction.
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3
Inspect the belt for damaged or worn spots by rotating the belt slowly and using a flashlight. Replace belts with worn rubber or excessive cracking according to your washing machine's instruction manual.
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