Kenmore Washing Machine: not starting

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Kenmore washing machine isn't starting, you may notice no power or response when pressing the Start/Power button. The display might not light up, and the washer won't fill with water. This issue can stem from a lack of power, a faulty timer, or a blown thermal fuse, hindering your laundry routine.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • Kenmore models commonly report electronic control board and door/lid switch issues as primary causes of not starting.

Possible Causes

No power to washer

How to Identify: Washer shows no lights or display; outlet not providing power when tested with another device; circuit breaker tripped.

Part: Power supply / Outlet / Circuit breaker

Faulty timer (models with mechanical timers)

How to Identify: Start knob or dial doesn’t click into start, or cycle selector doesn’t engage.

Part: Washer timer

Thermal fuse blown

How to Identify: No power despite correct supply and functional lid/door switch; continuity test fails.

Part: Thermal fuse

Defective power cord

How to Identify: Visible damage to cord or no continuity in cord despite outlet providing power.

Part: Power cord

DIY Solutions

Check power supply and reset breaker

Easy 5–10 minutes
Tools Needed: none
  1. Ensure washer is securely plugged into the outlet
  2. Test outlet with another device to confirm power
  3. Check circuit breaker panel and reset any tripped breaker
⚠️ Safety First: Do not work near water

Test and replace lid switch / door lock

Moderate 20–40 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, multimeter
  1. Unplug the washer
  2. Locate lid switch (top-loader) or door lock assembly (front-loader)
  3. Listen for clicking when closing lid/door
  4. Test switch for continuity with multimeter
  5. Replace switch if no continuity
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug before accessing internal components

Reset electronic controls

Easy 5–15 minutes
Tools Needed: none
  1. Unplug washer from power for 5–10 minutes
  2. Plug back in and attempt to start cycle
  3. If display resumes, attempt wash cycle
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure unplugged before waiting period

Professional Repairs

Replace electronic control board / user interface

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400+

Replace lid lock assembly (front-load)

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

Replace thermal fuse

Estimated Cost: $20 - $60

When to Call a Professional

No response after basic power and switch tests
Electronic controls appear damaged or burnt
Uncomfortable working with internal electrical components

Preventive Maintenance

  • Periodically test lid/door switch: Starting issues due to safety switch failure
    Frequency: monthly
  • Check outlet and power cord condition: Power-related start failures
    Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Washing Machine not starting?
Common causes include no power, a faulty timer, or a blown thermal fuse.
How do I fix Kenmore Washing Machine not starting myself?
Check the power supply, test the lid switch, or reset the electronic controls.
How much does it cost to fix not starting?
Professional repairs can range from $20 for a thermal fuse to $400+ for an electronic control board.
When should I call a technician for not starting?
If DIY solutions fail or if you're uncomfortable with electrical repairs, it's best to contact a technician.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Shift actuator failure (3 mentions)
  • Door switch issue (1 mentions)
  • Pressure switch malfunction (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Replace the shift actuator

    Success rate: 50.0%

  2. Replace the door switch

    Success rate: 17.0%

  3. Replace the pressure switch

    Success rate: 17.0%
Analysis based on 4 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Kenmore 80 Series Washing Machine Won’t Start
  2. Kenmore Washing Machine won't start
  3. Kenmore washing machine makes a rapid clicking noise prevent...
  4. Kenmore washing machine clicks and won't start.

Community Discussions

makes a rapid clicking noise preventing cycle start/change

replaced the shift actuator again

DIY View on Reddit →

clicks and won't start

Shift actuator has failed. Replacing it would be the fix.

DIY View on Reddit →

Won't start cycle, gives error code 41 (control board thinks that the door is open)

The door switch was identified as the issue and resolved the problem.

DIY View on Reddit →

Washing machine won’t start unless pressure tube is blown into

Replace the pressure switch

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

User Comments (0)

Share your experience or solution below.

Be the first to comment!