How to Repair a Washing Machine That Won’t Finish Its Cycle

If your washing machine is not finishing its cycle, it can be frustrating and inconvenient. There are several reasons why this could happen, ranging from simple issues that you can fix on your own to more complex problems that require professional help. In this article, we will explore some of the most common causes of a washing machine that won’t finish its cycle and provide you with tips and solutions to help you get your machine running again.

Why Won’t Your Washing Machine Finish Its Cycle? Troubleshooting Tips and Repair Solutions:

There are several reasons why your washing machine may not finish its cycle. It could be due to a faulty lid switch, a broken timer, or even a malfunctioning water-level pressure switch. To troubleshoot the issue, start by checking the basic components such as the power supply, water supply, and drainage. If these are not the issue, move on to inspecting the various parts of your machine that may be causing the problem. By identifying the cause of the issue, you can then take the necessary steps to repair or replace the faulty component and get your machine back up and running.

Replacing the Lid Switch to Ensure Proper Operation:

The lid switch is an essential safety feature in a washing machine that prevents it from operating if the lid is open. If the lid switch is defective, the washer may not complete its cycle. To replace the lid switch/lock assembly on a top-load washer, first, unplug the machine from the power source. Next, locate the switch under the top panel and disconnect the wire harness. Then, remove the mounting screws and lift the switch/lock assembly out of the washer. Install the new switch/lock assembly in the same location and connect the wire harness. Finally, replace the mounting screws and reattach the top panel. The process for replacing the lid switch in a direct-drive top-load washer is similar, but the switch location and removal method may vary. Consult the washer’s manual for specific instructions.

Replace the washer shifter assembly

The shifter assembly is responsible for shifting the washer’s motor from the agitate mode to the spin mode. If the shifter assembly is faulty, it can prevent the washer from completing its cycle. To replace the shifter assembly in a top-load washer, start by unplugging the washer from the power source. Locate the shifter assembly, which is usually located underneath the washer’s tub. Disconnect the wire harness and remove any screws or mounting brackets that hold the assembly in place. Install the new shifter assembly by securing it with the screws or mounting brackets, and then reconnect the wire harness. Finally, plug the washer back in and run a test cycle to ensure that the shifter assembly is working correctly.

The process for replacing the shifter assembly in a top-load direct-drive washer is similar, but the location of the assembly may differ. Refer to your washer’s user manual or online resources for specific instructions on how to access and replace the shifter assembly in your particular model.

 

Replace the washer door lock assembly

Replacing the door lock assembly in a front-load washer is a fairly simple task that can be completed with basic tools. First, unplug the washer and turn off the water supply. Locate the door lock assembly, which is usually located on the front of the washer where the door closes. Remove any screws or clips that are holding the assembly in place, and then carefully disconnect any wire harnesses that are attached to the assembly. Install the new door lock assembly by reversing these steps and test the washer to make sure it is working properly.

Replace the washer main control board

Replacing the washer main control board can help fix a washing machine that won’t finish its cycle. The control board is responsible for controlling the various components of the washer and can fail due to electrical surges or other issues.

To replace the electronic control board on a top-load washer, first, unplug the washer from the power source. Then, remove the back panel to access the control board. Disconnect the wires and screws that hold the control board in place and remove it. Install the new control board by connecting the wires and screws, then replace the back panel.

For a front-load washer, the process of replacing the machine control board may vary slightly depending on the make and model. However, the general steps involve unplugging the washer, removing the top panel or back panel to access the control board, disconnecting the wires and screws, removing the old board, installing the new board, and reconnecting the wires and screws before replacing the panel. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions when replacing the control board.

Replace the washer timer

Replacing the timer on a direct-drive top-load washer is relatively easy and requires basic hand tools. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Unplug the washer from the power source to avoid electric shock.
  2. Locate the timer control panel at the top of the washer.
  3. Remove the screws that secure the control panel in place and lift the panel up to expose the timer.
  4. Disconnect the wiring harness that connects the timer to the washer.
  5. Remove the mounting screws that secure the timer in place.
  6. Install the new timer by mounting it in place and securing the mounting screws.
  7. Reconnect the wiring harness to the new timer.
  8. Replace the control panel and secure it with the screws that you previously removed.
  9. Plug the washer back in and test the new timer to make sure it’s functioning correctly.

Repair or replace the washer drain pump

The drain pump is responsible for removing water from the washing machine’s tub. If your washer is not draining water properly or making unusual noises, it may be time to replace the drain pump.

To replace the drain pump in a top-load washer, first, unplug the machine from the power source and remove any water left in the tub. Then, locate the drain pump near the bottom of the washer and disconnect the wire harness. Remove the screws holding the pump in place and take out the old pump. Install the new pump by securing it with screws and reconnecting the wire harness.

To replace the drain pump on a front-load washer, start by unplugging the machine and removing the lower front panel. Locate the drain pump and disconnect the wire harness. Remove the screws holding the pump in place and take out the old pump. Install the new pump by securing it with screws and reconnecting the wire harness.

If you are not comfortable replacing the drain pump yourself, consider hiring a professional technician to do the job for you. It is also worth noting that if your washer is still under warranty, the manufacturer may cover the cost of repair or replacement of the drain pump.

 

Replace the washer motor control board

The motor control board is responsible for controlling the washer’s motor and other related components. If it malfunctions, the washer may fail to complete its cycle. Here are the steps to replace the motor control board on a front-load washer:

  1. Turn off the power to the washer: Before you begin any work on the washer, unplug it or turn off the circuit breaker to ensure your safety.
  2. Locate the motor control board: The motor control board is usually located near the bottom of the washer. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to locate it.
  3. Remove the old motor control board: Once you have located the motor control board, remove it by disconnecting the wire harnesses and unscrewing any screws that secure it to the washer.
  4. Install the new motor control board: Install the new motor control board by securing it in place with screws and reconnecting the wire harnesses.
  5. Test the washer: After installing the new motor control board, plug in the washer and turn it on to see if it now completes its cycle. If it does not, you may need to seek further assistance from a professional technician.

Replace the washer water-level pressure switch

The water level pressure switch in a top-load washer controls the water level by monitoring the pressure inside the tub. If the switch malfunctions, it can cause the washer to stop mid-cycle or not fill up properly. To replace the water level pressure switch in a direct-drive top-load washer, first, unplug the machine and turn off the water supply. Next, remove the control panel and locate the switch. Disconnect the wire harness and remove the old switch. Install the new switch and reconnect the wire harness. Finally, reattach the control panel and turn on the water supply before plugging in the machine.

These cities are located within the Dekalb County Community Service Area:

Tucker, Stone Mountain, Chamblee, Dunwoody, Clarkston, Belvedere Park, North Decatur, North Druid Hills, Redan, Decatur, Candler-McAfee, Panthersville, Doraville, Gresham Park, Brookhaven, Scottdale, Druid Hills

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