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  1. Repair

Washer not starting

Common reasons your washer not starting

The most common reasons your washer is not starting are a malfunctioning electronic control board, jammed door lock assembly or a faulty user interface.

  • 73%

    73% of the time it's the
    Electronic Control Board

  • 11%

    11% of the time it's the
    Door Lock Assembly

  • 10%

    10% of the time it's the
    User Interface Control

  • 6%

    6% of the time it's the
    Something else

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    Common washer repair parts you may need

    Replacing one of these washer parts may fix your problem.

    Electronic Control Board Replacement

    If a washer is not starting, it might be indicative of a faulty electronic control board. Responsible for powering up the washer and managing essential components like the drive motor and water valve, a malfunctioning control board can prevent the washer from starting. It might also fail to fill, agitate, spin, or drain. A shorted board may also produce a burning smell


    Door Lock Assembly Replacement

    When the washer door lock assembly gets stuck, you might have trouble opening or closing the washer door. The door might not close securely, causing problems when you try to start or finish a wash. You might see an error code that tells you there's a problem with the door lock. While the washer is running, the door lock might make strange clicking noises or not lock at all, stopping the washer from starting. Also, if there's a problem, the light on the door lock might not turn on like it should. You might notice water left in the drum even after the wash is done, which could mean the door lock assembly isn't letting the water drain properly.

    User Interface Control Replacement

    A malfunctioning user interface control might stop responding, preventing you from adjusting wash cycle settings or turning the washer on and off. In certain malfunctions, only a few buttons or dials on the interface are impacted, but sometimes the entire interface becomes unresponsive. With a defective user interface, cycle status indicators like remaining cycle time may not show correctly. Buttons or keys on the user interface might stick, leading to erratic washer behavior such as unexpected starts or stops during a cycle. There may also be error codes shown on the display.

    What to expect when you experience a washer not starting issue

    What is the solution for the issue of the washer not starting?

    Typically, fixing most issues where the washer doesn't start requires replacing the electronic control board, door lock assembly, or user interface control. However, since there are numerous potential causes, a comprehensive diagnosis is crucial to resolving the problem. Achieving an accurate diagnosis is pivotal in determining the extent and cost of the required repair.

    Suggestions from Sears Home Services when a washer is not starting

    There could be many reasons for a washer not starting. Having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem is the best way to avoid DIY guesswork. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of washer failures.

    Things to look out for with a washer not starting diagnosis

    Diagnosing today's appliances without adequate knowledge and training can pose challenges. Attempting to fix your washer issue without employing proper diagnostic techniques often results in guesswork-based part replacements. Over the past decade, appliances have advanced significantly, with many models featuring electronic components that are challenging to test. As a result, DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly complex.

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    Repair Washer Resources

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    Common washer symptoms to look out for

    • Washer burning smell
    • Washer display not working
    • Washer leaking from bottom
    • Washer leaking water
    • Washer no power
    • Washer no water
    • Washer noisy
    • Washer not agitating
    • Washer not draining
    • Washer not filling
    • Washer not spinning
    • Washer not turning on
    • Washer not washing
    • Washer not working
    • Washer vibrates
    • Washer will not drain
    • Washer won't start cycle
    • Washer won't turn off