How to Fix a Timer for a Washer That Has Locking Issues

If your washer is experiencing difficulties with locking or staying locked, it may be due to a problem with the timer. The timer is responsible for the start, end, and duration of your washer’s functions. It may be experiencing electrical failure and, therefore, cannot send the appropriate instructions to your washer, including when it is time to lock or unlock.

What is the Timer?

The timer controls washer functions, such as the length of cycles, water level, tub filling and emptying, and cycle setting sequences. If the washer cannot lock or unlock, it is possible that the contacts inside the timer have failed, and power is not being sent to the pump.

Where is the Timer Located?

The timer can be found mounted inside the control panel. Its location within the control panel may vary slightly according to the model.

How to Access, Remove, and Inspect the Timer

1. Unplug the washer for your safety.
2. Turn the timer, so it is at the start of the drain cycle, and then pull the timer knob out.
3. Pull the washer out to access to the back of the machine.
4. Lift the console/control panel up, to access the underside of the console, where the timer is mounted.
5. Locate the timer shaft inside the console and use a flat blade screwdriver to pull the shaft all the way out.
6. Remove the knob and knob skirt.
7. Remove the screw(s) or plastic tab that secures the timer, and then pull the timer off the console.
8. Remove the wire harness by lifting on the locking tab. Remove the timer from the control panel.
9. At this point, you need the wiring diagram in order to know which set of contacts you need to test with the meter.
10. Once you’ve noted these, you can test the terminals on the timer with a multimeter. If there is no reading or the reading is negative, then the timer has failed, and it needs to be replaced.

How to Test the Timer

1. Set your multimeter to read in ohms on the lowest setting (some devices call this mode RX1 or X1). If your multimeter has a setting that tests for continuity by making a sound, you may set it to that as well.
2. If you have an analog multimeter, calibrate the meter by pinching the probes together while adjusting the needle to read 0.
3. Touch the probes to the wire terminals and check the reading – a good timer will read 0 ohms.
4. Replace your timer if it reads otherwise.

How to Install a New Timer

1. Take the new timer and firmly press the wire harness into the timer, until you hear the locking tab engage.
2. Fit the timer back inside the console panel and reinstall either the screw or plastic tab to secure the timer.
3. Place the knob and knob skirt back on, and then press the center shaft (from the back) to lock the knob in place.
4. Fit your control panel/console back onto the top of the washer and secure it in position.
5. Plug the machine back in.

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