January 01, 2016

How to replace the door lock assembly on a front-load washer

How to replace the door lock assembly on a front-load washer

This washer repair guide shows how to replace the door lock assembly in a front-load washer. The washer won't start if the control detects that the washer door is open, and it won't spin if the control detects that the door is unlocked. If the door lock assembly clicks but the door doesn't lock, it's likely that the door lock assembly is broken. If the door lock assembly isn't working as it should, replace it with a manufacturer-approved washer part.

These repair steps work for Kenmore 796-series and LG front-load washers. You also can use the same basic procedure to replace the door lock assembly in Samsung, Whirlpool, Maytag, Frigidaire, Amana, Bosch, GE and Electrolux front-load washers.

We also have instructions for replacing the lid switch/lock on a top-load washer.

Quick links
Tools required
Phillips screwdriver
Work gloves
Repair difficulty
Time required
30 minutes or less
Repair difficulty
Time required
30 minutes or less
Replacing a door lock on a front-load washer

This video explains how to replace a front-load washer door lock.

Instructions

  1. 01.

    Unplug the washer

    Pull the outlet plug out of the wall electrical outlet to completely disconnect electrical power from the washer.

    Wear work gloves to protect your hands.

  2. 02.

    Remove the top panel

    Move the washer so can you can work behind the it.

    Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the 2 screws on the back of the washer that hold the top panel.

    Gently pull the top panel toward the rear of the washer and lift it up and off.

    PHOTO: Remove the top panel screws at the back of the washer.

    PHOTO: Remove the top panel screws at the back of the washer.

    PHOTO: Remove the top panel.

    PHOTO: Remove the top panel.

  3. 03.

    Remove the door lock assembly

    If the door is still locked, use a putty knife to pry out the white latch on the door lock assembly and then open the washer door.

    Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the mounting screws from the front of the door lock assembly.

    Pull the door lock assembly out and disconnect the wire harness.

    PHOTO: Remove the mounting screws from the front of the door lock.

    PHOTO: Remove the mounting screws from the front of the door lock.

    PHOTO: Remove the door lock assembly.

    PHOTO: Remove the door lock assembly.

  4. 04.

    Install the new door lock assembly

    Plug the wire harness into the new door lock assembly.

    Position the door lock assembly in place and secure it with the mounting screws.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the door lock mounting screws.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the door lock mounting screws.

  5. 05.

    Reinstall the top panel

    Push the panel down and forward to seat it the washer frame.

    Reinstall the screws to secure the back panel. Avoid overtightening.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the top panel.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the top panel.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the top panel rear bracket screws.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the top panel rear bracket 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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