Diagnosis
A grinding noise during spin is almost always something trapped between the inner wash basket and the outer tub. Coins, bra wires, and small metal objects are the usual suspects.
How to Fix It
First, run a diagnostic spin test. With the washer empty, select the ‘Drain & Spin’ cycle and start it. Listen closely. If the noise is present, stop the cycle and unplug the machine. Now, manually rotate the inner basket by reaching in and turning it. Feel and listen for any catches or scraping. If you find an object, you can often fish it out with long-nose pliers or a magnetic retrieval tool through the basket holes or the center agitator cap.
If That Didn't Work
If you can’t find an object and the noise persists, the issue could be a worn-out drive pulley or a failing transmission. That’s a more involved repair, but the grinding from a mechanical failure usually has a more consistent, metal-on-metal tone than the sporadic clatter of a trapped object.
Heads Up
Always check pockets thoroughly. A single coin can not only cause noise but also dent the inner basket or damage the porcelain finish, leading to rust spots later.