Why Did My Record Player Stop Spinning? How to Fix it? 

Did you know that most record players stop spinning because of a simple issue that can be fixed in minutes?

I didn’t either—until it happened to me. I was about to discard mine, but I got it spinning like new again with some simple troubleshooting. 

This is what I am going to share with you in this article. 

Let me explain the common reasons why this happens and how you can fix it quickly without breaking a sweat.

Common Reasons Why Your Record Players Stop Spinning

Record players can be finicky, and when they stop spinning, it’s usually for one of a handful of reasons. 

1. Power Supply Issues

One of the first things you should know when your record player stops spinning is that it might not be the turntable itself—it could be the power supply. 

Maybe the cord has been jolted loose, or worse, it’s become damaged over time. Sometimes, the outlet itself is the problem, or a power strip has tripped without you realising it. 

In more serious cases, there could be an issue with the internal fuse or power switch, especially in older models.

2. Belt-Driven Problems

Another frequent cause of a record player not spinning is belt problems, especially in belt-driven turntables. 

Over time, the belt that connects the motor to the platter can wear out, stretch, or even break. 

If the belt is worn or loose, it won’t provide the proper tension needed to keep the platter spinning smoothly. In some cases, it can even slip off entirely, leaving the platter motionless.

Another common issue is belt misalignment—if the belt isn’t sitting correctly on the motor pulley or platter, the whole system can halt. 

3. Motor Issues

The motor issues are more common in direct-drive turntables. The motor is the heart of your turntable, and if it’s not functioning correctly, the platter simply won’t spin. 

Motors can degrade over time due to wear and tear or accumulate dust and debris that hinder their performance. 

The motor can sometimes fail, causing the turntable to stop spinning. In other cases, the motor may spin inconsistently or erratically, often pointing to internal electrical issues or worn-out motor components.

4. Tonearm Misalignment or Lock Issues

Many turntables are designed with safety mechanisms that prevent the platter from spinning unless the tonearm is in the correct position. 

If the tonearm is stuck, not properly reset, or the auto-stop feature is engaged, it can lock the platter in place. 

Even a slight misalignment of the tonearm can trigger this, stopping your vinyl from spinning altogether.​

This issue is particularly common in semi-automatic and automatic turntables, where the tonearm must be in the right spot to engage the motor.

5. Excessive Record Weight 

Sometimes, the problem is with the weight of the record or any additional weight clamps you might be using. 

If the record is too heavy, it can strain the motor, making it difficult for the platter to spin properly. 

This is especially true if the motor is already ageing or underpowered. The added weight can slow down or completely stop the spinning process, leading to performance issues.

How to Fix a Record Player That Is Not Spinning?

Now that we’ve pinpointed some of the common reasons why your record player might stop spinning, let’s dive into the part we all want to know—how to fix it.

1. Fixing Power Supply Issues

Here’s how to tackle the power supply issue: 

1. Check the power connection: First, double-check that the power cord is plugged in securely—sometimes, it can come loose without you realizing it. If you’re using a power strip, make sure it hasn’t been turned off or tripped. Once that’s done, test the outlet by plugging in something else, like a phone charger, to see if it’s working properly.

2. Inspect the Power Cord: Look for any signs of wear or damage, like exposed wires. If the cord is detachable, replace it easily; otherwise, you may need a technician to replace it.

3. Replace the Fuse: If your turntable has an internal fuse, check the fuse panel and replace any blown fuses with new ones, following the manufacturer’s instructions.​

2. Replacing or Adjusting the Belt

As mentioned above, in belt-drive turntables, belts can wear out, stretch, or slip off, so replacing or adjusting them is often necessary to get your turntable back to life. Here’s how to do it: 

1. Remove the Platter: Start by carefully removing the platter from the turntable. Most platters simply lift off, but some might have a clip holding them in place. If there’s a clip, gently remove it and set it aside.

2. Inspect the Belt: Once the platter is off, you’ll see the belt. Check if it’s loose, stretched, or broken. You’ll need to replace it if it looks worn out or damaged. Make sure to get the correct belt size for your specific turntable model, which you can usually find in the manual or online.

3. Replace the Belt: If the belt is worn out, place the new one around the inner circle of the platter. Ensure it’s sitting evenly without any twists. Then, carefully place the platter back on the turntable, making sure the belt hooks onto the motor pulley through the access hole.

4. Test the Turntable: Once the belt is in place, gently spin the platter to ensure everything is aligned correctly. Power up the turntable and see if it starts spinning again.

3. Fixing Motor Issues

If you’ve got a direct-drive turntable or the belt seems fine, but your player still isn’t spinning, the motor could be the issue. Here’s how to tackle motor-related problems:

Step 1: Clean the Motor

Start by unplugging your turntable. Remove the platter and locate the motor—usually near the centre of the turntable. Use a soft cloth and some rubbing alcohol to clean the motor and its surrounding components gently. Be careful not to disturb any delicate parts. Regular cleaning can help prevent motor issues from piling up​. 

Step 2: Check for Loose or Worn Components

While you’re cleaning, take a look at the motor’s wiring and connections. If anything seems loose or disconnected, carefully reattach it. Sometimes, wires can corrode or come undone, preventing the motor from working properly. 

If you spot any visible damage, such as worn wires or corrosion, you may need to replace those parts or consult a professional for help.

Step 3: Lubricate the Motor

Some motors require lubrication to keep running smoothly. Check your turntable’s manual to see if it recommends adding a drop of oil to the motor bearings. If lubrication is required, make sure to use the correct type of oil specified for your motor. This can reduce friction and extend the motor’s life.

Step 4: Test the Motor

After cleaning and lubricating, reassemble your turntable and power it up. If the motor was the issue, you should notice an improvement in the platter’s rotation. If the motor still isn’t functioning correctly, it may need to be replaced.​

4. Fixing Tonearm and Platter Issues

In certain turntables, the tonearm has to be positioned correctly. Here’s how to fix tonearm misalignment:

Step 1: Reset the Tonearm

Start by gently lifting the tonearm and moving it toward the record’s starting position or to the right, depending on the model. Often, this simple action triggers the platter to start spinning. If the turntable has an auto-return feature, make sure the tonearm has completed its full cycle after the last play​. 

Step 2: Check for Tonearm Lock

Some turntables have a locking mechanism to secure the tonearm when not in use. Double-check that the tonearm isn’t locked down. If it is, release the lock; the platter should be free to spin again.

Step 3: Adjust the Tonearm Positioning

Misalignment of the tonearm can prevent the motor from engaging. Make sure the tonearm is balanced and aligned properly. If it’s too light or too heavy, it can affect the needle’s tracking and, in some models, stop the platter from spinning. 

Refer to your turntable’s manual for instructions on adjusting the tonearm’s counterweight and anti-skate settings. Proper balancing will ensure smooth working. 

Step 4: Inspect Auto-Stop or Auto-Start Features

If your turntable is built with automatic start/stop features, these can sometimes malfunction. 

Test the auto-stop by letting the tonearm reach the end of the record. If it fails to return, you might need to manually adjust the tonearm’s auto-return mechanism or lubricate the gears that control this function. 

Likewise, make sure the auto-start feature is functioning properly as well. 

Ready to Get Your Record Player Spinning Again?

Your record player has power; the needle lifts up, but the platter doesn’t spin. Fixing a record player that stops spinning doesn’t have to be a difficult task. 

By following the fixes explained above, you can quickly restore your record player to working order. 

However, sometimes, the cost of replacement parts adds up, and you might wonder if it’s worth it. If you’re facing major replacements like the motor, tonearm, and cartridge all at once, investing in a new turntable might be more economical.

By understanding when to replace parts and knowing how to handle these common fixes, you can keep your vinyl spinning for years.