Do I have a defective washing machine timer, or is something else wrong?

Question:I have a top-load washer. It fills, then when it is supposed to agitate, you see the hub move a bit. no agitation. Then the pump engages and drains the water. It starts to refill, but then the pump engages again.

Going to the spin cycle by manually turning the timer works. It does drain and spin like it should.

This problem occurs on all cycles.

Bad timer, or something else.

We got the washer used, so we have no history with it.

It does make some noise when it agitates and spins... almost like there's a marble rolling around inside, if that makes sense. I don't know if that is related or not, like the transmission having some broken parts or not.

Answers:
It sounds like it is getting worn out. If the washer is older i would assume it is because of how old it is and most likely many washes prior to you owning it. Also, if not that old, i would suggest getting it looked at to save you more money in the long run if it breaks down.
good luck