July 01, 2013

How to replace the user interface board in a front-load washer

How to replace the user interface board in a front-load washer

This step-by-step washer repair guide explains how to replace the user interface control board in the control panel of a front-load washer. The user interface board holds the display lights and buttons you press when selecting the washer's cycles and settings. If a control button or display light on the control panel won't work because of a failed user interface board, replace it with a manufacturer-approved replacement part.

Use the steps in this guide to replace the user interface board in Kenmore and LG front load washers. You also can use the same basic procedure to replace the user interface board in some Samsung, Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, Frigidaire and GE front-load washers.

Quick links
Tools required
Slot screwdriver
Phillips screwdriver
Work gloves
Repair difficulty
Time required
30 minutes or less
Repair difficulty
Time required
30 minutes or less

Instructions

  1. 01.

    Shut off the electricity

    Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.

    Wear work gloves to protect your hands.

    Have someone help you move the washer away from the wall.

  2. 02.

    Remove the top panel from the washer

    Remove the 2 screws on the back of the washer that hold the top panel.

    Pull the top panel toward the rear of the washer and lift it up and off.

    PHOTO: Remove the 2 screws from the back of the top panel.

    PHOTO: Remove the 2 screws from the back of the top panel.

    PHOTO: Remove the washer top panel.

    PHOTO: Remove the washer top panel.

  3. 03.

    Remove the screw on the back of the control panel

    Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the screw on the back of the control panel.

    The screw is on the right side as you face the front of the washer.

    PHOTO: Remove the screw on the back of the control panel.

    PHOTO: Remove the screw on the back of the control panel.

  4. 04.

    Remove the screws in the dispenser drawer housing

    Pull the dispenser drawer forward until it stops.

    Release the locking tab at the back of the dispenser drawer and then pull it completely out of the dispenser housing.

    Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the screws on each side of the dispenser housing.

    PHOTO: Pull the dispenser drawer out.

    PHOTO: Pull the dispenser drawer out.

    PHOTO: Release the dispenser drawer.

    PHOTO: Release the dispenser drawer.

    PHOTO: Remove the screws from each side of the dispenser housing.

    PHOTO: Remove the screws from each side of the dispenser housing.

  5. 05.

    Remove the control panel

    Unplug the wire harness connections for the control panel by pressing on the release tabs and sliding the connectors apart.

    Stand in front of the washer and lift up on the control panel to release the top. Pull the control panel off the washer.

    PHOTO: Disconnect the control panel wires.

    PHOTO: Disconnect the control panel wires.

    PHOTO: Pull the control panel off the washer.

    PHOTO: Pull the control panel off the washer.

  6. 06.

    Remove the user interface board

    Remove the screws that secure the user interface board in the control panel.

    Pull the user interface board out.

    PHOTO: Mounting screws in the user interface board.

    PHOTO: Mounting screws in the user interface board.

    PHOTO: Remove the screws that hold the user interface board.

    PHOTO: Remove the screws that hold the user interface board.

    PHOTO: Remove the user interface board from the washer.

    PHOTO: Remove the user interface board from the washer.

  7. 07.

    Install the new user interface board

    Place the new interface control boards into the control panel and install the screws loosely.

    Make sure that all the buttons are lined and can depress the switches on the interface board when you push the buttons.

    Carefully tighten the mounting screws.

  8. 08.

    Reinstall the control panel

    Position the control panel on the top of the front panel.

    Reinstall the screws in the dispenser housing.

    Reinstall the screw on the back right side of the control panel.

    Plug in the wire harness connections for the control panel.

    Push the detergent dispenser back into the drawer housing.

    PHOTO: Position the control panel on the top of the front panel.

    PHOTO: Position the control panel on the top of the front panel.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the screws on each side of the dispenser housing.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the screws on each side of the dispenser housing.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the screw on the right side of the control panel.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the screw on the right side of the control panel.

    PHOTO: Plug in the control panel wire harness connections.

    PHOTO: Plug in the control panel wire harness connections.

  9. 09.

    Reinstall the top panel

    Push the panel down and forward to seat it on the washer frame.

    Reinstall the screws to secure the back panel. Avoid overtightening.

  10. 10.

    Restore the power

    Plug the washer into the electrical outlet.

    Return the washer to its original location.

Warning: Undertaking repairs to appliances can be hazardous. Use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs should only be performed by a qualified technician.

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