Washer: Why doesn't my washing machine work at all?
If your washer is completely unresponsive, start by ruling out the obvious--is it unplugged? Did the circuit trip? To test whether the electrical outlet is the problem, plug a hair dryer or other electrical device into it. If the hair dryer doesn't work, the wiring in the outlet is the problem. Have an electrician repair the electrical outlet.
If the hair dryer works, there could be a wiring problem in the washer. Follow these steps to check wiring in the washing machine:
Unplug the washer and check the power cord for damage. Replace the power cord if it's damaged.
Check the wiring connections on the timer or main control board. Reconnect any loose wires.
If your washer has a digital display, check the wiring connections between the main control board and the user interface board. Reconnect any loose user interface wires.
If the wiring connections are okay, you may need to replace the main control board or the user interface board. We recommend that you have a service technician test the washing machine control board and user interface board or the washer timer before replacing control components. Testing the controls typically requires live voltage checks. We don't recommend that you perform live voltage check on your washer yourself because those tests are dangerous.
THESE REPAIRS MAY HELP SOLVE YOUR WASHER PROBLEM
Replace the washer main control board
The main electronic control board, also called the mother board, governs the timing and execution of the washer component functions. It controls the fill valves, the drive motor and the drain pump.
Washer main control board
How to replace the electronic control board on a top-load washer
A failed top-load washer electronic control board can cause multiple problems, from no display lights to the washer not filling, spinning or draining. If you or a service technician determine that the electronic control is faulty, this repair guide and video show how to replace it.
How to replace the machine control board in a front-load washer
A failed front-load washing machine control board has several symptoms, including the washer not starting, filling, spinning or draining. If you or a service technician determine that the machine control board has failed, this repair guide shows how to replace it.
Replace the washer timer
The timer — also called a cycle selector — is the dial you use to set the cycle on a washing machine with mechanical controls. The timer makes the washer move through its cycles, from initial filling to final spin. Replace the timer if it doesn’t advance the washer through its cycles.
Washer timer
How to replace the timer in a direct-drive top-load washer
If your top load washer doesn't advance through the cycles or gets stuck in one cycle, it's likely the timer has failed. This DIY repair guide and video show how to replace the timer in less than 30 minutes.
Replace the washer user interface board
The user interface board holds the buttons you press to set up the wash cycle. Replace the user interface board if one or more of the buttons don't work.
Washer user interface board
How to replace the user interface board in a front-load washer
When a front-load washer's control panel won't light up or respond when you push the buttons, it could mean the user interface board has failed. This repair guide shows how to replace the user interface board on a washing machine in 30 minutes.
Most common symptoms to help you fix your washers
Choose a symptom to see related washer repairs.
Main causes: unbalanced load, loose spanner nut, worn drive block, broken shock absorber or suspension spring, debris in…
Main causes: bad lid switch or door lock, bad timer or electronic control board, wiring failure, bad water inlet valve a…
Main causes: clogged drain hose, house drain clogged, bad drain pump, water-level pressure switch failure, bad control b…
Main causes: leaky water inlet valve, faulty water-level pressure switch, bad electronic control board…
Main causes: water heater failure, bad water temperature switch, faulty control board, bad water valve, faulty water tem…
Main causes: lack of electrical power, wiring failure, bad power cord, electronic control board failure, bad user interf…
Main causes: no water supply, bad water valves, water-level pressure switch failure, control system failure, bad door lo…
Main causes: worn agitator dogs, bad clutch, broken motor coupler, shifter assembly failure, broken door lock, suspensio…
Main causes: broken lid switch or lid lock, bad pressure switch, broken shifter assembly, faulty control system…
Most common repair guides to help fix your washers
Effective articles & videos to help repair your washers
Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your washer.
Find tips for using your washing machine efficiently to save energy and help reduce utility bills.…
Get answers to frequently asked questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect.…
Learn how to repair broken, frayed or damaged wires in your appliances.…