Lawsuit Investigation into Exploding Whirlpool, Maytag Washers

Attorneys working with ClassAction.org would like to hear from anyone whose Whirlpool or Maytag front-loading washing machine exploded.

They are investigating whether a defect is causing the washers to explode – and whether a class action lawsuit can be filed to help those affected.

What’s Causing the Washer Explosions?

Reports indicate that the explosions stem from the failure of the washing machines’ bearings. This can cause the concrete counterweights, which are used to balance the drum and hold the machine down during the spin cycle, to come loose. When this weight is lost, reports say, the outer tub of the machine can “fly around” and violently shake. This may be what’s causing the loud “jet engine” or “howling” noise consumers have reported before their washers exploded.

How Could a Class Action Lawsuit Help?

A class action lawsuit could help consumers hold Whirlpool accountable for releasing a potentially dangerous product into the marketplace. A lawsuit, if filed and successful, could force Whirlpool to recall any affected machines or otherwise alert the public, and offer a fix, replacement or refund for those who own the washers.

Reports of Exploding Whirlpool, Maytag Washers Surface Online

This investigation was prompted by a series of news reports about exploding washing machines. The reports dealt mostly with Whirlpool-made washers including the Whirlpool Duet and Maytag Maxima. Below are some complaints that have surfaced online [sic throughout]:

We just had another whirlpool washer explode in MN, and mine has the same issues. When on the spin cycle it makes a noise like a jet plane taking off. New it was your top of the line model and started doing this just two years later and has been doing it now for 3 years. There should be a recall or a free fix because I was told it was 450 to fix when this first started from the dealer I bought it from. Its nice to see when a company will stand behind there well built products instead of trying to cover issues up. Doing this only exposes the company to bad publicity and lawsuits from damage or even death. I would like to get the washer fixed before it explodes on us and this has been an issue that Whirlpool should have to relegate.”
— Curtis LaF, ComplaintsBoard.com

Last week my 2 years old Whirlpool washer (front load) model WFW94HEAWO ser #C32651933 was exploded while running (didn't had any extended warranty) called their customer service took me nearly two hours to talk to human who can listen…no positive outcome after all that next day called the repair guy and said it's better to buy new machine because it's gonna cost me way more to repair because wheel balancing had broke plus the door. Moral of the story is POOR PRODUCT, POOR SERVICE.”
— Sanjayvyas, PissedConsumer.com

Our Whirlpool washer literally just exploded this evening after not even three years of use. Needless to say, we're grateful no one was in the room. The house shook so loudly, we thought a floor joist had exploded. When we entered the room we found the machine on its side with the bottom blown out and the drum bent as if in a car accident. I was only washing two small throw rugs a few cloth diapers, nothing that should have caused this to happen.”
— Discover, Amazon.com

How We Can Help 

Attorneys working with ClassAction.org are working to determine whether a class action lawsuit can be filed over these washing machines – but first need to hear from people who own the affected appliances. 

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