Kenmore Dryer: timer not stopping

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Kenmore dryer running indefinitely? If the timer does not stop at the 'Off' position and the machine keeps operating, you may have issues with the timer assembly, cycling thermostat, or airflow blockage. Understanding the causes can help you troubleshoot effectively and restore normal function to your dryer.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • Kenmore dryers commonly use mechanical timer assemblies with internal switch contacts that can stick closed and cause the dryer to run continuously.

Possible Causes

Faulty dryer timer internal contacts allowing continuous power

How to Identify: Timer dial goes to Off but dryer still runs; multimeter shows near zero resistance on contacts that should be open at Off position.

Part: Dryer timer (mechanical)

Worn or broken timer motor or mechanical timer assembly

How to Identify: Timer does not advance or feels stiff; lack of clicking; continuity test on timer motor windings shows open circuit.

Part: Timer motor / mechanical timer

Malfunctioning cycling thermostat sending incorrect signals to timer

How to Identify: Timer runs continuously especially if dryer overheats; thermostat continuity test fails or dryer doesn’t cycle heat correctly.

Part: Cycling thermostat

Defective control board affecting timer control circuitry

How to Identify: Visual signs of damage on board or intermittent control issues; timer behavior inconsistent with mechanical faults.

Part: Dryer control board

Clogged vent or airflow restriction

How to Identify: Dryer runs much longer than expected and may overheat; vent airflow weak upon inspection.

Part: Dryer vent / duct

DIY Solutions

Test and replace dryer timer assembly

Advanced 60-120 minutes
Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdrivers, nut drivers
  1. Unplug the dryer and ensure no power to the unit.
  2. Remove the control panel to access the timer.
  3. Use a multimeter to check continuity of internal timer contacts in Off position; if contacts show continuity when they should be open, replace the timer.
  4. Disconnect timer wiring harness and remove the timer assembly.
  5. Install the new timer assembly matching wire positions.
  6. Reassemble control panel and restore power to test.
⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before working inside dryer.

Inspect and replace dryer timer knob or shaft

Easy 5-15 minutes
Tools Needed: none or small screwdriver
  1. Remove the timer knob by pulling it straight off the shaft.
  2. Inspect for cracks, wear, or slippage.
  3. Replace with a new knob that fits snugly on the shaft.

Clean dryer vent and airflow path

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: vacuum with hose, vent brush
  1. Disconnect dryer from power and pull away from wall.
  2. Remove vent hose and clean lint from inside vent and dryer outlet.
  3. Use vent brush and vacuum to clear airflow path.
  4. Reconnect vent and test dryer cycle duration.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure thorough lint removal to avoid fire hazards.

Professional Repairs

Replace dryer control board

Estimated Cost: $150 - $300

Replace cycling thermostat

Estimated Cost: $30 - $80

When to Call a Professional

If you are not comfortable performing electrical diagnostics inside the dryer.
If replacing the timer assembly does not resolve the issue.
If control board is suspected to be faulty or visibly damaged.

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean dryer vent and lint trap: Overheating and excessive run times that can stress timer and thermostats
    Frequency: monthly
  • Inspect and rotate timer knob occasionally: Wear on timer shaft and knob interface
    Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Dryer timer not stopping?
Common causes include faulty timer contacts, a worn timer motor, or a clogged vent.
How do I fix Kenmore Dryer timer not stopping myself?
You can test and replace the timer assembly or clean the vent for airflow issues.
How much does it cost to fix timer not stopping?
Professional repairs can range from $150 to $300 for the control board replacement.
When should I call a technician for timer not stopping?
Consider calling a technician if you’re uncomfortable with advanced repairs or if issues persist after DIY fixes.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

60%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Worn or damaged timer contacts causing malfunction
  • Faulty timer motor preventing the timer from advancing
  • Defective electronic control board affecting timer operation

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and replace the timer if contacts are worn. Disconnect power, remove the control panel, and replace the timer with a new one.

  2. Test the timer motor with a multimeter for continuity. If faulty, replace the timer motor. Disconnect power, remove the timer, and install a new motor.

  3. Check the electronic control board for any visible damage or burnt components. If damaged, replace the control board. This may require professional assistance.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Dryer's end of cycle stops when it should but timer keeps sp...

Community Discussions

Dryer's end of cycle stops when it should but timer keeps spinning

Timer needs to be replaced due to worn contacts causing malfunction.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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