How to Fix a Knobs User Interface for a Washer That Will Not Start

If your washer isn’t responding, or simply will not start, this can be due to a bad or broken user interface or knob. The kind of fault you get with the user interface can depend on the type and model of washer you have and whether it is top-load or front-load. Usually, a faulty user interface means that you cannot make any changes to the cycle you want or that the washer itself won’t respond to any buttons, dials, or selections you press. Detailed below is a straightforward, step-by-step guide on how you can diagnose and potentially replace your washing machine’s user interface so your machine can be back to 100% as soon as possible.

What is the User Interface?

The user interface is part of what you use to tell the washer what type of wash or cycle to run your clothes through. It works with the control board to make all wash selections, and, depending on your washer model, you’ll have one or a few selector dial(s)/knob(s), a series of buttons, or a touchscreen.

Where is the User Interface Located?

The user interface will be located where your control board is located. How it is mapped out will depend on whether you own a top-load or a front-load washer, and on the specific brand of machine.

General Location of the User Interface in a Front Load Washer

General Location of the User Interface in a Top Load Washer

How to Access, Remove, and Inspect a Washing Machine's User Interface

1. Use a putty knife, screwdriver, or socket wrench to remove any clasps, hinges, or screws securing the user interface to the machine. You may need to remove a number of these screws, clasps, and hinges depending on your washer model and where your interface is located.
2. Remove any cables that are connecting the interface to the machine.
3. After removing the interface, locate any screws within the user interface housing and, using a screwdriver or socket set, remove them to expose the innards of the housing.
4. The control board is the innermost computer device, but the user interface is the outer shell. Remove the control board from that outer shell, removing any screws, wires, or clips.

How to Test a Washer's User Interface

Diagnosing the user interface on a washer is quite simple. If your washer is simply not responding to any program inputs or generally not recognizing any actions on your part, your user interface is most likely faulty or broken.

How to Install a New Washing Machine User Interface

This requires only a putty knife and either a screwdriver or a socket wrench, depending on your model. Be sure to disconnect both water and electricity before continuing.

1. Place the control board within the new user interface and refasten any screws, wires, or clips to house the control board within the new user interface.
2. Reconnect the user interface housing back to the washer, connecting any wires or clips.
3. Refasten any screws, and reconnect whatever panels were disconnected earlier to gain access to the user interface. Now your repair is complete!

Next: Troubleshooting the Control Board

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