July 01, 2013

How to replace a motor control board on a front-load washer

How to replace a motor control board on a front-load washer

This washer repair guide explains how to replace the motor control board in a front-load washer. The motor control board is a separate circuit board next to the drive motor in the bottom of the washer. The washer motor control board receives signals from the main control board and activates the drive motor. If the motor control isn't working properly, the drive motor might not spin at all or might spin at the wrong speed. Follow these steps to replace the motor control board withal manufacturer-approved replacement part.

Use this procedure to replace the motor control board in Kenmore, Whirlpool, Frigidaire, Electrolux and Maytag front-load washers.

Quick links
Tools required
#2 square bit screwdriver
Slot screwdriver
Work gloves
Towel
Repair difficulty
Time required
30 minutes or less
Repair difficulty
Time required
30 minutes or less

Instructions

  1. 01.

    Shut off the electricity

    Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.

    Wear work gloves to protect your hands.

    Have someone help you move the washer away from the wall.

  2. 02.

    Remove the rear access panel

    Use a #2 square bit screwdriver to remove the screws from the rear access panel.

    Pull the rear panel off of the washer.

  3. 03.

    Remove the motor control board

    Remove the screw that secures the green ground wire for the motor control board to the base of the washer.

    Remove the screw that secures the motor control board housing to the base of the washer.

    Remove the screws from the back panel and the base that secure the motor control board to the washer frame.

    Disconnect the wire harness connections from the motor control board. Pull the motor control board out of the washer and set it aside for disposal.

    Tip: Use a slot screwdriver to release the locking tabs on the wire harness connections.
  4. 04.

    Install the new motor control board

    Connect the wires to the new motor control board.

    Position the motor control board in the base of the washer and replace the mounting screws.

    Connect the green ground wire to the base of the washer.

  5. 05.

    Reinstall the rear access panel

    Position the rear access panel on the back of the washer and reinstall the mounting screws.

  6. 06.

    Restore the power

    Plug the washer into the electrical outlet. Return the washer to its original location.

Warning: Undertaking repairs to appliances can be hazardous. Use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs should only be performed by a qualified technician.

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