Hello,
The probable cause is a blockage. The likely blockage is soap flakes that haven't got as far as the washing and have turned all gunky and slimey. Have a good look where you put the soap flakes. On most machines the soap drawer is removable for cleaning.
I don't use the drawer for the soap, I just bung the soap flakes straight into the drum before i put the washing in.
Good luck, John
John in sunny rye, May 2007