Why Won’t My Washer Lid Lock? Solutions

The lid lock on Whirlpool top-loading washers ensures that the washer won’t start if the lid is open, among other safety features. A lid switch that, when coupled with a solenoid that completes a circuit, makes it possible for the machine to only operate when the top is down. So why won’t your washer lid lock? Here are several of them. Learn more about the washer lid lock by reading this article.

Reasons For The Washer Lid Lock

A malfunction is typically indicated by a flashing light on the display panel. Here’s how to identify the best repair and troubleshoot the most likely causes.

Failed Lid Switch

When the washer is turned on and the lid is shut, the lid switch ought to activate automatically. When activated, the switch secures the lid and tells the washer’s control panel to start the wash cycle.

The Whirlpool washer lid might not unlock or signal a cycle to start if the switch is damaged or has failed electronically. Your washing machine won’t start, drain, or spin when this happens.

The switch must be replaced by a qualified individual if it appears damaged or fails multimeter testing due to a lack of continuity.

Broken Door Strike

The door strike on top-loading machines turns on the lid switch. It locks the lid and tells the control panel to start a wash cycle when the switch makes contact with the strike.

Under normal use or if the lid is slammed down, the plastic strike may crack, break, or become out of alignment. When this occurs, it might be impossible to activate the lid switch or leave the washer door locked so that it won’t open.

If the strike is out of alignment, it can be repositioned, but if it is broken, a technician must replace it.

Faulty Actuator Motor

Is your Whirlpool top-loading washer locked and unable to start? Potentially at fault is the actuator motor. By using this part, the washer can change from spinning to agitating.

The motor’s malfunction may result in spinning issues that keep the lid locked and halt other operations. It is a challenging task that should only be left to expert repair services, including testing and/or replacing the motor.

Drain Pump Malfunction

When the drain pump fails and the washer’s water cannot be drained, a Whirlpool top-load washer may occasionally refuse to unlock. Check the pump for blockages that can keep it from functioning and remove any debris or obstructions.

If there are no obvious obstructions and the pump is operating loudly, it may be failing and needs to be professionally replaced.

How To Fix Washer With A Lid Lock

Door Lock Or Interlock

The door lock, which is also referred to as the interlock, is a safety feature found on front-loading washing machines and some top-loading washers that stop the door or lid from being opened while the machine is in use.

The system is made up of a door-mounted catch and a door lock mechanism that is located on the back of the front panel, door shroud, or main top. Switches and a lock/unlock solenoid or wax motor solenoid typically make up the lock mechanism.

To prevent the door or lid from being opened, the lock solenoid/wax motor is activated by the washer control when the cycle is started. The door unlocks solenoid or door lock wax motor will be activated or deactivated by the control at the end of the cycle.

The wax motor-style solenoid typically takes at least a minute or two to activate or deactivate. When the cycle is finished, if the door or lid won’t open, the lock mechanism may be broken.

The door or lid can usually be opened manually on most washers by unlocking the locking mechanism. The release is typically reachable from beneath the door lock or, on some models, from inside the soap dispenser housing.

How to check a washing machine’s door lock:

• Before starting, unplug your appliance from the power source.
• To get rid of any films or debris that may have accumulated, find and clean your door lock. Under the lid, along the washing machine’s frame, is typically where you’ll find it.
• Remove the door lock from the appliance to check for wear, damage, or cracks if cleaning it does not fix the problem. To remove the switch, you’ll probably have to take out all or part of the washer’s cabinet.
• You will need a replacement door lock if you discover that your switch exhibits any of the aforementioned symptoms.

Door Strike & Catch & Hook

The door strike, also known as the catch or hook, is a safety feature installed on front-loading washing machines or is used to engage the lid switch on a top-load washer.

The lock mechanism on front-load washers is activated using the door hook. When the door hook is damaged, the door lock assembly may not operate as intended or it may be difficult to remove from the lock mechanism at the end of the cycle.

Regular use, abuse, or attempts to forcefully open the door while the lock is engaged can cause the door strike or hook, which is typically made of rigid plastic, to break.

Examining a washing machine’s door strike:

• No tools or disassembly are necessary for this straightforward inspection.
• The door strike should be found. You can locate it in your washing machine’s door frame.
• Check the strike visually to make sure the door lock assembly is properly engaged and that it releases without any problems. Check the strike for any signs of wear, cracking, or damage addition.
• A replacement door strike is necessary if you discover any problems while conducting the aforementioned checks.

Lid Hinge & Pin

The lid will be attached to the main top of most top-load washing machines by two hinges. These hinges, which may be made of metal or plastic, eventually develop wear from regular use. The hinges may need to be repaired if you’re having trouble opening the lid.

Examining a washing machine’s lid hinge and pin:

• Make sure to unplug your washer before starting because this inspection will expose electrical components.
• Lift the lid to check the lid’s pins and hinges for any signs of damage, wear, cracking, or any debris that might be clogging the hinges.
• To examine all sides of the hinges and pins, lift or remove the main top.
• You’ll need replacement lid hinges if you discover any problems while conducting the aforementioned checks.