How to Fix a Door Lock for a Washer That Will Not Start
If your washer is not responding, or simply will not start, this issue may be caused by your washer’s door lock. If your door lock is malfunctioning, it can lead to issues with the control board not detecting a locked and sealed door, so your washer won’t start. If your door lock is broken or faulty, it’s usually easy to tell because the door simply will not shut properly or will be hard to shut. Detailed below is a step-by-step guide on how you can diagnose and potentially replace your washing machine’s door lock so your machine can be back to 100% as soon as possible.
What is a Washer Door Lock?
A washing machine door lock is a mechanism that ensures that the washer is sealed shut and does not open whilst in operation. This door lock normally activates as soon as your cycle is selected, and just as the wash begins. Not every door lock looks exactly the same, so it’s a good idea to look at the general area around your door to get acquainted with your specific appliance.
Where is the Door Lock Located?
You will find your washer door lock within the door mechanism. It will be a plastic block with one or more female ends. Refer to the 3D diagram below for further help.
How to Access, Remove, and Inspect Washer's Door Lock
- Locate the door lock on your machine. It’s most commonly on the interior part of the door, and is usually a female port receding into the washer.
- Using a pair of pliers, remove any springs or harnesses that secure the silicone tubing on the inside of the washer.
- Using a screwdriver or socket, unfasten the outer connection of the door latch assembly.
- Carefully pull back the door gasket and pull out the door latch assembly.
- Take a picture of the wire configurations of your door lock assembly for future reference. Then disconnect the wire harnesses from the assembly.
How to Test Washer's Door Lock
The easiest way to tell if your washer door lock is faulty is if it simply will not latch shut. The washer cannot recognize the door as shut, so it won’t start. Sometimes you hear a repeated “knocking” sound – that’s the washer trying to lock or seal the door shut – if your door lock is broken or bad.
How to Install a New Washer Door Lock
Replacing the door lock on your washing machine is super simple and may only require a few tools, such as a pair of pliers and the appropriate screwdriver or socket wrench.
- Connect the wires previously disconnected within the door latch assembly to the new door latch and fasten the outer connection of the door latch mechanism.
- Secure the door gasket within the inner drum of the washer, as it was before.
- Attach any springs or harnesses that you removed, and your repair is now complete!
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