Washer: Why doesn't my washing machine work at all?
If your washer is completely unresponsive, start by ruling out the obvious--is it unplugged? Did the circuit trip? To test whether the electrical outlet is the problem, plug a hair dryer or other electrical device into it. If the hair dryer doesn't work, the wiring in the outlet is the problem. Have an electrician repair the electrical outlet.
If the hair dryer works, there could be a wiring problem in the washer. Follow these steps to check wiring in the washing machine:
Unplug the washer and check the power cord for damage. Replace the power cord if it's damaged.
Check the wiring connections on the timer or main control board. Reconnect any loose wires.
If your washer has a digital display, check the wiring connections between the main control board and the user interface board. Reconnect any loose user interface wires.
If the wiring connections are okay, you may need to replace the main control board or the user interface board. We recommend that you have a service technician test the washing machine control board and user interface board or the washer timer before replacing control components. Testing the controls typically requires live voltage checks. We don't recommend that you perform live voltage check on your washer yourself because those tests are dangerous.
THESE REPAIRS MAY HELP SOLVE YOUR WASHER PROBLEM
Replace the washer main control board
The main electronic control board, also called the mother board, governs the timing and execution of the washer component functions. It controls the fill valves, the drive motor and the drain pump.
Washer main control board
How to replace the electronic control board on a top-load washer
A failed top-load washer electronic control board can cause multiple problems, from no display lights to the washer not filling, spinning or draining. If you or a service technician determine that the electronic control is faulty, this repair guide and video show how to replace it.
How to replace the machine control board in a front-load washer
A failed front-load washing machine control board has several symptoms, including the washer not starting, filling, spinning or draining. If you or a service technician determine that the machine control board has failed, this repair guide shows how to replace it.
Replace the washer timer
The timer — also called a cycle selector — is the dial you use to set the cycle on a washing machine with mechanical controls. The timer makes the washer move through its cycles, from initial filling to final spin. Replace the timer if it doesn’t advance the washer through its cycles.
Washer timer
How to replace the timer in a direct-drive top-load washer
If your top load washer doesn't advance through the cycles or gets stuck in one cycle, it's likely the timer has failed. This DIY repair guide and video show how to replace the timer in less than 30 minutes.
Replace the washer user interface board
The user interface board holds the buttons you press to set up the wash cycle. Replace the user interface board if one or more of the buttons don't work.
Washer user interface board
How to replace the user interface board in a front-load washer
When a front-load washer's control panel won't light up or respond when you push the buttons, it could mean the user interface board has failed. This repair guide shows how to replace the user interface board on a washing machine in 30 minutes.
Symptoms common to all washers
Articles and videos common to all washers
Learn how to fix a washing machine leak
Learn how to fix your broken washing machine
Find out how to clean and flush household appliances once a boil water advisory is lifted.