Kenmore Washing Machine: not functioning

Possible Causes

Power supply or electrical issue

How to Identify: No lights or display; washer completely unresponsive; other appliances on same outlet also do not work or breaker has tripped

Part: Power cord, outlet, line fuse, breaker

Door/lid switch or lock mechanism fault

How to Identify: Washer display does not start cycle or shows lock icon; drum doesn’t spin; old top‑load machines won’t start if lid switch is open. (jp.

Part: Door lock assembly or lid switch

Control board or electronic control failure

How to Identify: Lights may power on but controls/timer don’t respond; random error lights; no response after diagnostics/ power resets

Part: Main control board or motor control board

Blown thermal fuse or internal safety fuse

How to Identify: Multimeter test shows no continuity; washer shows no start even when power is present

Part: Internal line or thermal fuse

DIY Solutions

Check and restore power supply

Easy 5–10 minutes

Tools Needed: none

1. Ensure washer power cord is fully plugged into a working wall outlet
2. Check home breaker panel and reset any tripped breakers
3. Try a different outlet or test outlet with another appliance

⚠️ Safety First: Do not work on electrical components if wet or if there is visible damage to cord

Inspect and test door/lid switch

Moderate 10–30 minutes

Tools Needed: screwdriver, multimeter

1. Unplug washer from power
2. Open access panel to door/lid switch area
3. Test switch continuity with a multimeter while actuating switch
4. Replace switch if it shows no continuity

⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before accessing internal components

Power reset to clear control glitches

Easy 5 minutes

Tools Needed: none

1. Unplug washer or turn off breaker
2. Wait 1–5 minutes to allow capacitors to discharge
3. Restore power and attempt to start washer

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure no water is present before plugging back in

Professional Repairs

Replace main control board

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300

Replace thermal/line fuse

Estimated Cost: $20 - $60

Replace door/lid lock assembly

Estimated Cost: $30 - $120

When to Call a Professional

Unit powers on but diagnostics show internal component failures

User lacks tools/confidence to safely access internal electrical components

After attempting DIY diagnostics without resolution

Preventive Maintenance

• Check and clean door/lid lock contacts: False door open signals that can stop operation
  Frequency: monthly
• Inspect and test power cord and outlet: Power supply related no‑start issues
  Frequency: quarterly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Washing Machine not functioning?

Common causes include power supply issues, door/lid switch faults, and control board failures.

How do I fix Kenmore Washing Machine not functioning myself?

Check the power supply, inspect the door/lid switch, and perform a power reset.

How much does it cost to fix not functioning?

Professional repairs can range from $20 for a fuse replacement to $300 for a control board.

When should I call a technician for not functioning?

If DIY fixes don't resolve the issue or if you're unsure, consider calling a technician.

Can I Fix This Myself?

50%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Professional

Common Issues Reported by Users

• Aging appliance requiring replacement (1 mentions)
• Electrical or control system failure (e.g., main PCB) (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

1. Replace with a basic top loader like Speed Queen or Whirlpool

   Success rate: 20.0%

Community Discussions

Need to replace Kenmore Washer Series 80 after 28 years

Consider replacing with a basic top loader, such as Speed Queen or Whirlpool.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair