How to Fix a Lid Switch for a Washer That Will Not Agitate

When a washer’s top lid is open, the motor circuit will not operate. This safety feature is crucial to preventing serious injuries. If your lid switch is broken, the machine won’t run even when the circuit is complete and will require a replacement. To determine if your lid switch is the problem, you will need to test it with a multimeter. The information provided below will help you through this inspection, and how to replace the part if necessary.

What is a Lid Switch? Where is it Located?

When a washer’s top lid is open, the motor circuit will not operate. This safety feature is crucial to preventing serious injuries, and you should not try to bypass it. Some models of washers may use a magnetic lid switch that does not use a mechanical actuator to trip it. These washers will have a magnet in the lid that will operate the switch when the lid is closed. If your washer does not agitate and the motor is not getting any power, you should check the lid switch.

Start by finding the actuator for the lid switch: it will project from the lid and, when you close the lid, fit into a corresponding slot on the top of the body of the washer. Behind or below this opening will be the lid switch. In the 3D rendering below, it is seen under the top panel in the upper left corner. However, it might be found at the other corners.

General Location of the Lid Switch in a Washer

How to Tell if the Lid Switch is Damaged

If your lid switch is broken, the machine won’t run, and a repair is in order. Unplug the washer and see if the switch mechanism is tripped by a lever or actuator when the lid shuts. Remove the wires from the switch and use your multi-meter to check for electrical continuity. If the switch is not supplying power to the motor circuits, then you will want to replace it. If the switch does have continuity, then you’ll need to next check the selector switch, the timer, and the rest of the motor circuitry to pinpoint the problem.

How to Test the Lid Switch in a Washing Machine with a Multimeter

1. Begin by unplugging your washing machine, and then remove the top panel or cabinet.
2. Locate the switch and verify that it is being activated when the lid is closed. If it is, remove the switch to test it.
3. Set your multimeter to the Rx1 setting, touch the probes to the terminals, and press and hold the switch button down. The multimeter should show a reading of zero or nearly zero.
4. If your test produces different results, you will need a replacement lid switch.

How to Access and Remove the Lid Switch

1. You will need to disconnect the power to your washer before beginning this repair and pull the machine away from the wall so you can easily access the back panel.
2. Since the lid switch is found underneath the control panel, you will need to unscrew and lift the panel back to gain access.
3. To remove the old switch, you first disconnect the wire harness, and then remove the screw holding the grounding wire in place.
4. The lid of the washer needs to be lifted, as the pin will be engaged with the switch if the lid is in the closed position.

How to Install a New Lid Switch

1. With the lid still open, the new switch can be put in place.
2. Install the screw for the grounding wire and reattach the wire harness.
3. The control panel can then be lowered back down, ensuring that the locking tabs are engaged.

Next: Troubleshooting the Selector Switch

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