How to diagnose bearing failure in a washing machine
Diagnosing washing machine drum bearings.
Using an LG direct drive as an example. If you have a belt-driven machine, you can remove the belt from the motor to the pulley. This will allow for a more accurate inspection, eliminating motor noise. If there is no noise when the drum spins without the belt, but there is noise with the belt, you need to inspect the motor; the brushes or bearings may be worn.