April 19, 2023

DIY dryer repair

If your dryer won't start, doesn't heat or won't stop, Sears PartsDirect has the repair help you need to get the appliance working again. We have solutions to common symptoms, as well as dryer repair guides that cover major brands like Whirlpool, GE, Samsung and Kenmore Elite.

Check out our error code charts to find troubleshooting tips when the dryer stops and the control flashes lights in a peculiar pattern or a code appears on the digital display. Our troubleshooting videos can help diagnose common dryer problems; for example, if your dryer won't heat, follow the steps in our electric dryer won't heat or gas dryer won't heat videos. If the dryer won't start, check out the troubleshooting tips in our electric dryer won't start or gas dryer won't start videos.

For help with other dryer issues, head on over to our articles and videos page. Once you find out what needs fixing on your dryer, our DIY repair guides can help you replace the part. To find the owner’s manual or a complete list of replacement parts for your dryer, search for your model number.

dryer

Most common symptoms to help you fix your dryers

Choose a symptom to see related dryer repairs.

Main causes: bad gas valve coils, broken heating element, tripped safety thermostat or fuse, bad operating thermostat, c…

Main causes: bad timer or electronic control board, door switch failure…

Main causes: lack of electrical power, bad power cord, wiring failure, bad control board, blown thermal fuse, bad door s…

Main causes: clogged exhaust vent, bad motor relay, loose dryer door catch, bad door switch, control system failure, fau…

Main causes: damaged door strike, worn door catch…

Main causes: bad drum support roller, damaged idler pulley, broken blower fan blade, worn drum glide bearing, bad drive …

Main causes: clogged exhaust system, heating system failure, deposits on moisture sensor, control system failure…

Main causes: door switch failure, lack of power, broken belt, blown thermal fuse, bad drive motor, control system failur…

Most common repair guides to help fix your dryers

These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your dryer.

How to replace a dryer thermistor

How to replace a dryer thermistor

The thermistor senses the air temperature in the dryer. If your dryer overheats or doesn't heat at all, the thermistor …

Repair difficulty
Time required
 30 minutes or less
How to install a thermal cut-off fuse kit in a gas dryer

How to install a thermal cut-off fuse kit in a gas dryer

The thermal cut-off fuse shuts off the heat if the dryer overheats when the high-limit thermostat fails. The thermal cut…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
How to replace a dryer drive belt

How to replace a dryer drive belt

If the drive belt breaks, the motor runs but the drum won't rotate. These step-by-step instructions guide you through th…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 90 minutes or less

Effective articles & videos to help repair your dryers

Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your dryer.

How to use your clothes dryer efficiently

How to use your clothes dryer efficiently

Get expert tips on using your dryer efficiently to save energy.…

How to enjoy all the online benefits we offer on our Sears PartsDirect website

How to enjoy all the online benefits we offer on our Sears PartsDirect website

Learn about all the convenient features on our Sears PartsDirect website that make your parts purchases easier.…

Top questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect

Top questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect

Get answers to frequently asked questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect.…