Kenmore washer lid switch replacement

Kenmore washer lid switch replacement: try easy 8 steps

The kenmore washer lid switch replacement process can be daunting but possible to do!

Yes, you heard right! Here we’ll walk you through the straightforward and step-by-step guide that makes your work easy.

This guide on Kenmore washer lid switch replacement will explore:

  • Reason why Kenmore washer lid switch needs replacement?
  • how to replace the Kenmore washer lid switch?
  • Kenmore washer model 110 lid switch replacement
  • Kenmore washer lid switch not working.

Reason for Kenmore washer lid switch replacement

The Kenmore washer lid switch is an integral safety component. It actually stands to prevent the washer from functioning while the lid is open.

Over time, due to broken or wear and tear, as well as other factors, the lid switch may malfunction or become faulty. That is why, there need for a Kenmore washer lid switch replacement.

Even the lid switch can lead to the need for replacement if it doesn’t work properly.

Kenmore washer lid switch not working

lid switch not working

The Kenmore washer lid switch may stop working due to below reasons:

Mechanical Wear: Continuous lid opening and closing can wear out the switch’s mechanical components over time.

Electrical Issues: Corroded wires, loose connections, or damaged electrical components may disrupt the switch’s signal transmission.

Physical Damage: Accidents or rough handling can damage the switch and affect its function.

Corrosion: Exposure to moisture or humidity can cause corrosion within the switch and affect its electrical contacts.

Age: As the washer ages, components within the lid switch can deteriorate, leading to malfunction.

Manufacturing Defects: Faulty components or assembly during manufacturing can result in an early switch failure.

Control Board Problems: If the washer’s control board is faulty, it can prevent the lid switch signal from being properly recognized.

When the Kenmore washer lid switch is not working, the washer may fail to start, stop unexpectedly, or display error codes.

If you find these issues, troubleshoot them and, if necessary, replace the lid switch to restore proper functionality and ensure safe operation.

Kenmore washer lid switch replacement process

Kenmore washer lid switch replacement

The Kenmore washer lid switch replacement process is relatively easy and straightforward to execute.

The lid switch is a safety feature of the Kenmore washer. It helps prevents the washer from spinning if the lid is open.

Here’s a general guide to help you replace the lid switch:

The common step is to unplug the washer from the power source to ensure your safety.

unplug the washer

Then, gather some tools that you need to replace the lid switch.

Tools and Materials Needed:

  • New lid switch assembly (make sure it’s compatible with your Kenmore washer model)
  • Screwdriver (Phillips or flat-head, depending on the screws used)
  • Pliers (optional)
  • Wire stripper/cutter (optional)
  • Electrical tape (optional)

Step 1: Access the Lid Switch

  • Open the washer’s lid. Depending on your washer model, you may need to remove the control panel or the entire cabinet to access the lid switch assembly.
  • Usually, there are screws located along the edges of the control panel or under the front corners of the cabinet. Remove these screws to lift the control panel.
control panel screw remove

Then disconnect the wire connector and remove these screws with a flathead screwdriver securing the cabinet.

disconnect wire connector

Now remove the cabinet from the washer.

remove cabinet


Step 2: Disconnect the Old Lid Switch

Locate the lid switch assembly from under the control panel or cabinet which is attached near the top of the washer.

  • The lid switch has a wiring harness connected to it. Disconnect this harness. It may have a plug connection or may be connected using wire connectors.
remove wire harness
  • If the switch is held in place with screws, remove them using the appropriate screwdriver.


Step 3: Remove the Old Lid Switch

Once the wiring is disconnected, you can remove the old lid switch assembly from the washer.

remove old lid switch


Step 4: Install the New Lid Switch

  • Position the new lid switch assembly in the same location where the old one was removed.
install new lid switch
  • If the switch is secured with screws, fasten them to secure the new switch in place.
install the bolt


Step 5: Connect the Wiring

Reconnect this wiring harness to your collected new lid switch. Ensure the connections are secure.

secure wire harness

If necessary, use pliers or a wire stripper/cutter to trim and strip wires.


Step 6: Reassemble the Washer:

If you removed the control panel or cabinet, carefully reattach it by aligning the tabs or hooks and securing the screws.


Step 7: Test the New Lid Switch

  • Close the washer’s lid and plug it back into the power source.
  • Start a test cycle to ensure the new lid switch is functioning properly. The washer should start and run as expected with the lid closed.

Step 8: Final Checks

  • Double-check all connections to ensure they are properly secured.
  • Ensure the lid switch is aligned with the lid so that it gets activated when the lid is closed.

How to replace lid switch on kenmore washer model 110

kenmore washer 110

Replacing the lid switch on a Kenmore washer model 110 follows a similar process to the general steps provided earlier.

Here’s a more specific guide for replacing the lid switch on a Kenmore washer model 110 in short:

  1. Unplug the washer for safety.
  2. Remove two screws on the back of the control panel or cabinet.
  3. Slide and lift the control panel to access the components underneath.
  4. Find the lid switch assembly under the control panel.
  5. Carefully disconnect the wiring harness from the lid switch.
  6. If screws are used, remove them.
  7. Position the new switch and secure it with screws.
  8. Attach the wiring harness securely.
  9. Place the control panel back and secure it with screws.

Kenmore washer lid switch bypass

bypass kenmore lid switch

A lid switch bypass is modifying or altering the normal operation of a washing machine’s lid switch to disable its safety function temporarily or permanently.

The lid switch is a safety feature in the Kenmore washers. It prevents the machine from agitating or spinning while the lid is open.

A lid switch bypass essentially overrides or bypasses the lid switch’s function. It allows the machine to operate even when the lid is open.

This is typically done by either short-circuiting the wires connected to the lid switch or by disconnecting the switch entirely. You can read our other post to learn 3 easy steps about the Kenmore washer lid switch bypass.

Kenmore 500 lid switch replacement

The Kenmore 500 washer is a top-load washing machine. It’s designed for convenient loading and unloading of laundry from the top of the machine.

This type of washer is popular for its ease of use. You can simply lift the lid, add your clothes, detergent, and other laundry essentials, and then close the lid to start the washing cycle.

But if you need to replace the washer’s lid switch to ensure optimal performance, follow the above steps provided earlier.

Replacing the lid switch on a Kenmore 500 washer involves a similar process to the above general steps.

By following these above steps, you can easily access the lid switch, remove the old one and replace a new lid switch in the washer.

Then normally run a test cycle to see if the washer work properly.

Where is the lid switch located in a Kenmore washer?

The lid switch in a Kenmore washer is typically positioned underneath the control panel or cabinet of the machine.

Why would I need to replace my Kenmore washer’s lid switch?

The lid switch prevents the washer from operating when the lid is open, ensuring safety.

Can I bypass the lid switch to keep using the washer?

Bypassing the lid switch is not recommended due to safety risks. It’s best to address the issue by replacing the lid switch properly.

Can I replace the lid switch myself?

Yes, if you’re comfortable with basic tools and following our above quick and detailed instructions. However, if you’re confused, seek professional assistance.

How do I know if my lid switch is faulty?

If your washer doesn’t start or stop as expected when you open or close the lid, or if it shows error codes related to the lid, the lid switch might be faulty.

How long does it take to replace the lid switch?

The process can take around 30 minutes to an hour. It actually depends on your familiarity with the process and the complexity of your washer model.

What happens if I don’t replace a faulty lid switch?

Operating the washer with a faulty lid switch can compromise safety. Even it may lead to the machine not functioning correctly or even damaging the motor or other components.

Can I reuse my old lid switch or buy a used one?

No, you can’t reuse an old lid switch even if it is faulty. It’s recommended to use a new, genuine lid switch to ensure proper functionality and safety.

It can also be placed near the top of the washer, close to the lid’s hinge area.

The exact location can vary based on the model and design of the washer.

However, to access the lid switch, you may need to remove the control panel or the entire cabinet, depending on your washer’s configuration.

If it malfunctions or fails, it can lead to issues like the washer not starting or stopping unexpectedly.

So, you need to replace the lid switch.

Final thought

Remove the control panel or cabinet by unscrewing them and then get access to the lid switch. Disconnect the wire harness or any screws and remove the old one. Finally, replace a new lid switch assembly in the washer.

It’s the simple and straightforward method for Kenmore washer lid switch replacement. Do you have any confusion?

If so, please read carefully ad follow our above guidelines or contact a professional to get proper help.