Last updated: 2026-10-30 · By Fix It or Replace editorial team
Whirlpool Washer Not Starting? Control Lock, Lid Lock, Door Lock, Start Button Hold, Water Supply, Err / dr / -:-- Codes, Power Reset — Fixes, Costs, Repair vs Replace (2026)
Quick answer
Most Whirlpool washers that "won't start" have nothing broken. Whirlpool's own help pages list these checks:
- Power. Plug it into a grounded three-prong outlet; no extension cord. Check whether a breaker or GFCI outlet has tripped, or a fuse has blown. If it keeps happening, Whirlpool says to call an electrician.
- Control Lock. If the Control Lock light is on (or LoC / LC shows when you press buttons), the controls won't respond. Hold the Control Lock button for 3 seconds. On some front-loads, it's a dual-function key shared with another option.
- Lid or door. The lid must be completely closed and latched. Some top-loads won't even start until the lid locks. On front-loads, close the door firmly; the lock engages about 10 seconds after the cycle starts.
- Hold Start. Press and hold Start for up to 3 seconds. Some models show a 3-2-1 countdown.
- Water (front-load). Both hot and cold valves fully open, and both hoses connected.
- Display codes (front-load). Err = you changed the cycle while it was running or started with the door open. dr = three cycles in a row without opening the door; open and close it. -:-- = the knob is on a spot with no cycle; turn it.
- Reset. Unplug it for 5 minutes, then plug it back in.
If those don't fix it, the parts that usually fail are the lid lock (top-load), door lock (front-load), the user interface (buttons and display), the control board or motor control board, or the drive motor.
Our partner pro call line is coming soon. Until then: if your appliance may still be under warranty, contact the manufacturer first. Otherwise, get two or three written quotes from local appliance repair companies, and ask about the diagnostic fee and the parts-and-labor warranty.
Verdict at a glance
| Your situation | What it usually means | Our verdict |
|---|---|---|
| No lights at all, breaker or GFCI tripped, on an extension cord; Control Lock on; Start not held; Err, dr or -:-- on the display | Power, a setting, or how it was started | ✅ Free fix |
| Lights on, cycle won't begin; lid-lock light flashing; front-load door won't lock; lint or detergent around the lid lock | Lid lock, door lock, or debris | ✅ / 🔧 Free to moderate |
| Display dead with power at the outlet; buttons don't respond after a 5-minute reset; motor hums but won't turn; washer 8+ years old with a second big repair in about 2 years | User interface, control board, motor control board, or drive motor | 🔧 Usually worth repairing for a lock or interface; ♻️ lean toward replacing for a board or motor on an older washer |
Safety check before any DIY (30 seconds)
Stop and don't start the DIY steps below if any of these is true:
- Unplug the washer before you remove the console, top, or any panel.
- Never bypass the lid lock, lid switch, or door lock. The tub can spin very fast; Whirlpool says the lid lock is there for safety.
- Burning smell, smoke, or the breaker trips again right after you reset it. Stop and call an electrician or technician.
- Water in the tub? Drain it before you open anything.
- In year 1? Whirlpool's warranty covers parts and labor; call before you open panels.
- Recall check: search your model on the CPSC recall site before paying for a repair.
If none of these apply, the free checks below are safe for most owners.
Fix order at a glance (cheapest first)
| Order | What to try | Cost | DIY tier |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Grounded outlet, no extension cord; reset the breaker or GFCI; check fuses | Free | Easy |
| 2 | Turn off Control Lock (hold 3 seconds) | Free | Easy |
| 3 | Close the lid or door firmly; wait for the lock | Free | Easy |
| 4 | Hold Start up to 3 seconds; watch for a countdown | Free | Easy |
| 5 | Front-load: both water valves open, both hoses on | Free | Easy |
| 6 | Clear Err, dr, or -:-- (see the codes table) | Free | Easy |
| 7 | Unplug for 5 minutes | Free | Easy |
| 8 | Clean lint and detergent from the lid-lock area | Free | Easy |
| 9 | Lid lock (top-load) or door lock (front-load) | Part, or pro visit | Moderate → Advanced |
| 10 | User interface (buttons and display) | Part, or pro visit | Advanced |
| 11 | Control board or motor control board | Pro visit | Pro only |
| 12 | Drive motor | Pro visit | Pro only |
DIY tiers: Easy (no tools) · Moderate (unplugged, basic tools) · Advanced (console or panels off, multimeter) · Pro only (boards, motors, or still under warranty).
Which Whirlpool washer do you have?
Find the model and serial number on the label. On most top-loads it's under the lid or on the back of the console; on front-loads it's around the door opening.
| Type | Model often starts with (check label) | How it locks | What "won't start" usually means |
|---|---|---|---|
| High-efficiency top-load (Cabrio and newer impeller or agitator models) | WTW | Lid lock; some won't fill with the lid open | Lid not latched, lid lock, Control Lock, interface |
| Front-load (Duet and newer) | WFW | Door lock, engages about 10 seconds after start | Door not firmly shut, water supply, Err / dr / -:--, door lock |
| Older top-load (direct drive) | Older numbers | Lid switch | Lid switch, timer, motor |
Whirlpool says features and operations vary by model, so check your Owner's Manual for how your lid lock and Start button behave. Our Whirlpool washer won't drain and Whirlpool washer not spinning guides cover the next problems in the cycle.
Five-minute checks before you call anyone
- Any lights? No lights at all = power (outlet, breaker, GFCI, fuse). Lights but no cycle = lock, lid, Start, or a code.
- Lamp test: plug a lamp into the same outlet. If it doesn't light, it's a house electrical problem, not the washer.
- Control Lock: look for a padlock or key symbol; hold that button for 3 seconds.
- Lid or door: close it firmly. On a top-load, look for clothing, lint, or detergent build-up around the lock that stops it latching.
- Start: press and hold for 3 seconds.
- Front-load: are both water valves open?
- Reset: unplug for 5 minutes.
How to know it's fixed: the cycle starts, the lock light comes on, and you hear water filling within a minute or so.
What Whirlpool's own pages say vs. each other
Whirlpool's help pages and its blog don't give one answer on how long to cut the power or how to cancel:
| Whirlpool Product Help (washer troubleshooting) | Whirlpool blog ("How do you reset a washer machine") | |
|---|---|---|
| How long to unplug for a reset | 5 minutes (top-load, front-load, and lid-lock pages) | "Unplug your machine, wait a minute"; for a stuck door lock, 1–5 minutes; for an unresponsive panel, at least one minute |
| How long to hold a button | Control Lock 3 seconds; Start up to 3 seconds | Cancel a cycle by holding Start/Pause or Power/Cancel 3–5 seconds (varies by model); Control Lock three seconds |
| When the lid locks | Some top-loads won't fill with the lid open; others fill but drain after 10 minutes if it stays open | Pause or "Add Garment" unlocks the lid; some machines have a thermal lock that releases after a short wait |
Our take: use 5 minutes unplugged. It satisfies both pages. Hold buttons for the full 3 seconds. The blog notes that this article "includes AI-generated content" reviewed by Whirlpool's team, so where they differ, we follow the troubleshooting pages and your Owner's Manual.
Whirlpool washer codes and signs that stop a start
Codes vary by model. Your Owner's Manual lists the codes for your display.
| Code or sign | What Whirlpool says | First fix (free) | If it continues | DIY tier |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LoC or LC (front-load) | Control Lock is on | Hold the lock key (or dual-function key) 3 seconds | User interface | Easy → Advanced |
| Control Lock light on (top-load) | Controls won't respond | Hold Control Lock 3 seconds | User interface | Easy → Advanced |
| 3, 2, 1 countdown | Start must be held | Hold Start about 3 seconds | — | Easy |
| Err (front-load) | Cycle changed while running, or Start pressed with the door open | Close the door; pick the cycle, then Start | Door lock | Easy → Advanced |
| dr (front-load) | Three cycles without opening the door | Open and close the door; restart | — | Easy |
| -:-- (front-load) | Knob is on a position with no cycle | Turn the knob; restart | User interface | Easy |
| Door locked straight out of the box | Needs power and water connected | Connect hot and cold water and power | Door lock | Easy |
| Lid-lock light on, won't unlock | Basket still moving, or lock stuck | Wait for the tub to stop; clean debris; 5-minute reset | Lid lock | Easy → Advanced |
| No lights at all | No power | Outlet, breaker, GFCI, fuse | Power cord, board | Easy → Pro |
Which part each symptom points at:
| Symptom | Part most often involved | DIY tier |
|---|---|---|
| Top-load: lid closed, lock light flashes or never comes on | Lid lock | Moderate → Advanced |
| Older top-load: nothing happens with the lid shut | Lid switch | Moderate |
| Front-load: door shut, won't lock, Err returns | Door lock | Advanced |
| Some buttons dead, display missing segments | User interface | Advanced |
| Lights on, nothing starts after every reset | Control board | Pro only |
| Fills but won't agitate or spin | Motor control board or drive motor | Pro only |
Checks and codes from Whirlpool Product Help pages (sources 1–4). The part mapping is our own from these pages and the Sears PartsDirect catalog.
Diagnose by symptom → likely part
Before you touch parts: Unplug the washer. Drain any water. Have towels ready.
1. Top-load: lid closed, washer won't lock or start
Likely cause: a failed lid lock, or debris that stops it latching. Whirlpool says clothing, lint, and detergent build-up can stop the lid from locking; clean with a damp cloth first.
DIY difficulty: Moderate → Advanced.
| Part | What it does | DIY difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Lid lock | Locks the lid and tells the board it's closed | Moderate → Advanced |
| Lid switch (older models) | Tells the timer the lid is closed | Moderate |
2. Front-load: door shut, won't lock, cycle won't begin
Likely cause: a failed door lock. Rule out Err (door open at Start), the water supply, and a door that isn't pushed fully shut first.
DIY difficulty: Advanced.
| Part | What it does | DIY difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Door lock | Locks the door and confirms it to the board | Advanced |
3. Buttons don't respond, Control Lock is off
Likely cause: a failed user interface (the button and display board in the console).
DIY difficulty: Advanced.
| Part | What it does | DIY difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| User interface | Reads the buttons and runs the display | Advanced |
4. Lights on, nothing starts after every reset
Likely cause: the control board. A tech should confirm that the lock and interface test good first.
DIY difficulty: Pro only.
| Part | What it does | DIY difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Control board | Runs the cycle, valves, lock, and motor | Pro only |
5. Fills, then won't agitate or spin; motor hums or is silent
Likely cause: the motor control board or the drive motor.
DIY difficulty: Pro only.
| Part | What it does | DIY difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Motor control board | Powers and controls the motor | Pro only |
| Drive motor | Turns the basket or agitator | Pro only |
Power, lock, lid, Start, and the 5-minute reset all done, still won't start? A technician can test the lock, interface, boards, and motor in one visit.
Partner pro call line coming soon. See “who services” below for your options.
Independent partner service, not Whirlpool. We may be paid when you call.
Recalls
We searched the CPSC site on 2026-10-30. The one recall we found that names a Whirlpool-brand washer is:
- July 2, 2002 — combination washer and gas dryer units (fire hazard in the gas dryer): about 17,000 24-inch units, including Whirlpool Compact Thin Twin LTG5243DZ2, LTG5243DT2, LTG5243DQ2, LTG5243DQ3, and LTG5243DT3 (serials beginning MM, ML, or MK). The gas dryer could overheat. Remedy: stop using and unplug the unit (don't shut off the gas yourself) and call (866) 251-1607 for a free in-home repair. Units with electric dryers weren't included.
This recall is about the dryer half of a laundry center, not a washer that won't start, but if your model matches, use the recall remedy. Search your exact model at cpsc.gov/Recalls.
Prevent it next time
- Plug straight into a grounded outlet, never an extension cord.
- Wipe the lid-lock area so lint and detergent don't build up (Whirlpool).
- Learn your Control Lock key, especially if it shares a button with another option.
- Leave the front-load door open between loads so dr doesn't appear and the drum dries.
- Don't reset repeatedly to clear a code; Whirlpool's blog says to fix the cause instead.
Related guides: Whirlpool washer won't drain · Whirlpool washer not spinning · Whirlpool washer leaking · Whirlpool dryer not starting · Kenmore washer not draining · Samsung washer not starting
What Whirlpool's warranty covers on a washer
Per Whirlpool's US Major Appliance Limited Warranty (W11349438A) and its warranty overview page (see Sources):
| Period | What's covered | Who pays labor |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Factory-specified replacement parts and repair labor for defects in materials or workmanship | Whirlpool |
| Some models, longer | Some Whirlpool laundry warranties add parts-only coverage on items such as the drive motor or wash basket after year 1; check your model's warranty sheet | You |
What this means for a washer that won't start: a failed lid lock, door lock, interface, board, or motor in year 1 is covered. Whirlpool excludes in-home instruction and installation not done per the instructions, so a visit that only turns off Control Lock or finds the washer on an extension cord isn't a defect repair. A tripped breaker or GFCI is a house electrical issue. You need proof of purchase.
→ Whirlpool: appliance warranty coverage · Whirlpool Customer eXperience Center 1-800-253-1301
Before you pay for any repair: a 4-point check
- Warranty: year 1 parts and labor; any parts-only motor or basket coverage; retailer or credit-card extended protection.
- Recalls: search cpsc.gov/Recalls with your model.
- Free fixes done: outlet, breaker, GFCI, Control Lock, lid or door, Start hold, water supply, codes, 5-minute reset, debris.
- Written quote: ask for part, labor, and trip fee separately, and which part tested bad.
What it costs: repair parts and pro service (2026)
How we price this table: DIY part prices are part numbers listed on Sears PartsDirect public search pages for "whirlpool washer …" searches (S-list under Sources), USD before tax and shipping. Bezels, strikes, clips, plungers, actuators, lids, dishwasher, dryer, combo, and other-brand listings were excluded unless named. Pro costs tagged [GUIDE] come from two US cost guides (Fixr = G1, HomeGuide = G2): national averages for washers in general, not Whirlpool-specific quotes.
| Repair | Part cost (DIY) | Typical pro cost (parts + labor) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power, Control Lock, lid, Start, water, codes, reset | $0 | — | Do these first |
| Lid lock (top-load) | $49.07–$113.65 (W10404050 to W11307244) [S1] | [GUIDE] lid switch $85–$160 (G1); door lock or lid switch $100–$300 (G2) | Match your model |
| Lid switch (older top-load) | $28.60–$110.62 (WP8318084 to WP8054980) [S2] | [GUIDE] lid switch $85–$160 (G1); door lock or lid switch $100–$300 (G2) | |
| Door lock (front-load) | $36.84–$200.52 (W11565030 to WPW10375379) [S3] | [GUIDE] door lock $110–$200 (G1); door lock or lid switch $100–$300 (G2) | |
| User interface | $63.97–$328.86 (WP8564288 to W11478519) [S4] | Varies — get a quote (not itemized in G1/G2) | |
| Control board | $75.02–$419.09 (W11322905 to W11611438) [S5] | [GUIDE] motherboard $250–$400 (G1); control board $350–$550 (G2) | Diagnose first |
| Motor control board | $236.67–$337.39 (W10756692 to WPW10163007) [S6] | [GUIDE] motherboard $250–$400 (G1); control board $350–$550 (G2) | |
| Drive motor | $138.89–$431.54 (WP661600 to WP8182447) [S7] | [GUIDE] motor $300–$500 (G1); $300–$700 (G2) | |
| Older timer-based models | Varies by model | [GUIDE] timer $100–$280 (G1); $150–$300 (G2) | |
| "Won't start" visit, overall | — | [GUIDE] washer won't start $200–$400 (G1) | Fixr's problem-based figure |
| Service visit | — | [GUIDE] diagnosis $50–$100 (G1); minimum fee $70–$130, then $50–$125/hr (G2) | |
| New washer | — | [GUIDE] replacement $650–$2,100 (G1); new washer $700–$1,300 (G2) |
Part prices checked 2026-10-30 on Sears PartsDirect public search pages (S1–S7). Pro-cost cells tagged [GUIDE] from G1 (Fixr) and G2 (HomeGuide), re-read 2026-10-30; [GUIDE] figures are national averages, not Whirlpool-specific quotes. Prices change; confirm with your model number.
Tip: tell the tech your model number, whether any lights come on, what the lock light does, and any codes.
Repair vs. replace calculator
1. What's the all-in repair cost? → R = trip/diagnostic fee + part + labor + tax, minus anything Whirlpool's warranty (or a recall) covers
2. What does a comparable new washer cost, all-in? → N = unit + delivery + installation + haul-away
3. How old is your washer, and how long should it last? → Age and Life (HomeGuide says washers last 8–13 years; use 10 if you don't know)
4. How much have you spent on repairs in the last 2 years? → Past
Step A — Cost ratio: R ÷ N
Step B — Life used: Age ÷ Life
Step C — Repeat-repair check: (R + Past) ÷ N
| Life used under 50% | Life used over 50% | |
|---|---|---|
| Repair under 50% of new | ✅ Repair | 🤔 Repair is usually fine. Check for other wear |
| Repair over 50% of new | 🤔 Get a second quote first | ❌ Replace |
Repeat-repair rule: if Step C is over 50%, lean toward replacing. HomeGuide adds that replacing is usually cheaper when a washer is 7 to 10 years old and needs frequent repairs. If the part is no longer available for your model, replace.
Worked example 1 (illustrative numbers): A Whirlpool front-load shows LoC when any button is pressed. The owner holds the dual-function lock key for 3 seconds and it starts. R = $0.
→ Not a repair.
Worked example 2 (illustrative numbers): A 4-year-old Whirlpool top-load won't start; the lid-lock light flashes with the lid shut and the lock area is clean. A tech replaces the lid lock: R = $220; N = $900.
220 ÷ 900 = 24%; life used 4 ÷ 10 = 40% → Repair.
Worked example 3 (illustrative numbers): A 10-year-old Whirlpool front-load needs a control board ($480 quote) a year after a door lock ($200): N = $850.
480 ÷ 850 = 56% (inside the 50–60% second-quote zone); life used 10 ÷ 10 = 100%; repeat check (480 + 200) ÷ 850 = 80% → Replace.
Tips toward replacing: a board or motor on an older washer, repeat repairs, or parts no longer sold for your model.
Tips toward repairing: it's a lid lock, door lock, or interface; the washer is under about 7 years old; or it's in year 1.
Why 50%? It's the common rule of thumb for appliances. Some technician checklists draw the line a little higher, at about 60% of a new washer's price, so treat a repair that costs 50–60% of new as a second-quote zone, not an automatic replace.
Who services Whirlpool washers near you
1. Whirlpool (warranty). Contact the Whirlpool Customer eXperience Center at 1-800-253-1301 or schedule service through Whirlpool Product Help. Have your model and serial number and proof of purchase ready.
→ Whirlpool: appliance warranty coverage
2. A partner appliance pro (out of warranty).
Our call line connects you with an independent appliance repair provider in your area. Tell them your model number, what the lights and lock do, and what you've already tried.
Our partner pro call line is coming soon. Until then: if your appliance may still be under warranty, contact the manufacturer first. Otherwise, get two or three written quotes from local appliance repair companies, and ask about the diagnostic fee and the parts-and-labor warranty.
Questions to ask any technician:
- Did you rule out Control Lock, the lid or door, and the water supply before testing parts?
- Did the lock or interface test bad, or are you replacing the board on a guess?
- Is the part number the one listed for my exact model?
- Can you split the quote into part, labor, and trip fee?
Optional: is an appliance warranty worth it?
A home warranty (service contract) can cover repairs for a yearly fee plus a per-visit service fee. Read the exclusions carefully: plans often exclude electrical problems in the house, cosmetic parts, and pre-existing problems.
FAQ
Why won't my Whirlpool washer start?
Whirlpool's help pages list power (grounded outlet, breaker, GFCI, fuse), Control Lock, a lid or door that isn't fully closed and latched, not holding Start long enough, and, on front-loads, both water supplies.
How do I reset my Whirlpool washer?
Whirlpool Product Help says to unplug it for 5 minutes, then plug it back in.
How do I turn off Control Lock on a Whirlpool washer?
Hold the Control Lock button for 3 seconds. On some front-loads it's a dual-function key shared with another option; press the button itself, not the text below it.
What does LoC mean on a Whirlpool washer?
Control Lock is on. Hold the lock key for 3 seconds.
What does dr mean on a Whirlpool washer?
On front-loads, the washer ran three cycles without the door being opened. Open and close the door and restart.
Why does my Whirlpool washer need the lid closed to fill?
Some newer top-loads won't fill or wash with the lid open. Others fill but drain after 10 minutes if the lid stays open.
How much does it cost to fix a Whirlpool washer that won't start?
Often nothing. When we checked Sears PartsDirect on 2026-10-30, Whirlpool lid locks listed at about $49 to $114. Fixr puts a "won't start" repair at $200 to $400.
About the author
Fix It or Replace editorial team — We research appliance repairs using manufacturer documentation, parts-supplier data, and current US cost guides, and we cite every source below. We are not appliance technicians; for electrical, board, or motor repairs, call a qualified pro.
Last updated: 2026-10-30.
Sources
- Whirlpool Product Help (US): "No Power - Washer" (grounded three-prong outlet, no extension cord; check breaker, GFCI, fuse; call an electrician if it continues; hold Control Lock 3 seconds). https://producthelp.whirlpool.com/Laundry/Washers/Top_Load_Washer/Operation/Not_Operating/No_Power_-_Washer (accessed 2026-10-30)
- Whirlpool Product Help (US): "Not Starting - Washer" (Control Lock light; lid completely closed and latched; some fill without the lid locking, others won't start until it locks; hold Start up to 3 seconds, countdown on some models; unplug 5 minutes to reset). https://producthelp.whirlpool.com/Laundry/Washers/Top_Load_Washer/Operation/Not_Operating/Not_Starting_-_Washer (accessed 2026-10-30)
- Whirlpool Product Help (US): "Not Starting or Not Operating - Front Load Washer" (LoC / LC; dual-function lock key held 3 seconds; door locked on unboxing, connect hot and cold water and power; both valves fully open and both hoses connected; door lock engages about 10 seconds after start; 3-2-1 countdown, hold Start about 3 seconds; Err; dr after three cycles without opening the door; -:-- unassigned knob position; unplug 5 minutes). https://producthelp.whirlpool.com/Laundry/Washers/Front_Load_Washers/Not_Starting_or_Not_Operating/Not_Starting_or_Not_Operating/Not_Starting_or_Not_Operating_-_Front_Load_Washer (accessed 2026-10-30)
- Whirlpool Product Help (US): "Understanding Your Whirlpool Washer Lid Lock" (some won't fill or wash with the lid open; some fill but drain after 10 minutes; lid-locked lights; stuck lock: close the lid, wait for the tub to stop, clear clothing, lint and detergent build-up, unplug 5 minutes, then a technician). https://producthelp.whirlpool.com/Laundry/Washers/Product_Info/Washer_Product_Assistance/Lid_Locking_on_a_Top_Load_High_Efficiency_Washer (accessed 2026-10-30)
- Whirlpool blog: "How do you reset a washer machine: a step-by-step guide" (unplug and wait a minute; stuck door lock: wait 1–5 minutes, hold Cancel or Stop about 3 seconds, thermal lock may release after a short wait; cancel by holding Start/Pause or Power/Cancel 3–5 seconds; Control Lock three seconds; panel reset at least one minute; don't reset repeatedly without fixing the cause; page notes AI-generated content reviewed by Whirlpool's team). https://www.whirlpool.com/blog/washers-and-dryers/how-to-reset-a-washing-machine.html (accessed 2026-10-30)
- Whirlpool US: "Appliance Warranty Coverage" (parts and labor one year from delivery; may vary by model; exclusions incl. improper installation and in-home instruction; Customer eXperience Center 1-800-253-1301). https://www.whirlpool.com/blog/kitchen/warranties.html (accessed 2026-10-30)
- Whirlpool US "Major Appliance Limited Warranty" W11349438A (one year parts and labor; exclusions incl. in-home instruction, installation not per instructions or codes, consumables; service by authorized Whirlpool servicers; Customer eXperience Center 1-866-698-2538). https://www.whirlpool.com/content/dam/global/documents/202109/warranty-w11349438-reva.pdf (accessed 2026-10-30)
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: "CPSC, Whirlpool Announce Recall of Washer and Gas Dryer Units" (July 2, 2002; recall 02-192; about 17,000; Whirlpool Compact Thin Twin LTG5243DZ2, LTG5243DT2, LTG5243DQ2, LTG5243DQ3, LTG5243DT3, serials beginning MM, ML or MK; gas dryer can overheat; stop using and unplug; free in-home repair, (866) 251-1607; electric-dryer units not included). https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2002/cpsc-whirlpool-announce-recall-of-washer-and-gas-dryer-units · recalls search https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls (accessed 2026-10-30)
- Federal Trade Commission: endorsement and affiliate disclosure guidance. https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/resources/ftcs-endorsement-guides-what-people-are-asking
- Part prices (Sears PartsDirect, S-list) and repair cost guides (Fixr G1, HomeGuide G2), see lists below (accessed 2026-10-30).
Part price sources (Sears PartsDirect public search results for "whirlpool washer …", USD, accessed 2026-10-30; prices change, confirm with your model number):
- S1. Search "whirlpool washer lid lock": W10404050 $49.07, W11513248 $72.17, WPW10619844 $75.46, W10810403 $79.65, W11188327 $106.96, W11307244 $113.65; lid lock solenoid W11700916 $53.00 (bezels, strike, and laundry-center lock W11371714 excluded). https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=whirlpool%20washer%20lid%20lock
- S2. Search "whirlpool washer lid switch": WP8318084 $28.60, WP3355806 $33.98, WP3355458 $36.03, WP3949238 $37.16, WP3950298 $76.77, WP8054980 $110.62 (strikes, plungers, shields, actuators, terminals, kits, and lids excluded). https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=whirlpool%20washer%20lid%20switch
- S3. Search "whirlpool washer door lock": W11565030 $36.84, W11035628 $46.86, WPW10443885 $64.00, WPW10482836 $78.57, WP8182634 $98.09, WP8183270 $134.79, WPW10306374 $146.33, WPW10253483 $158.95, WPW10192995 $172.13, WPW10375379 $200.52 (lock washer, clips, lid lock, and door lock switch excluded). https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=whirlpool%20washer%20door%20lock
- S4. Search "whirlpool washer user interface": WP8564288 $63.97, W10911042 $204.59, WPW10311189 $212.86, WP8571919 $243.42, W11367297 $270.45, W11115285 $271.28, W11213905 $317.11, WPW10560210 $319.49, W11478519 $328.86 (dishwasher interfaces, WPW10297396 at $27.37, and the control board in the results excluded). https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=whirlpool%20washer%20user%20interface
- S5. Search "whirlpool washer control board" (washer electronic control boards only): W11322905 $75.02, W11608056 $173.09, W11519742 $175.67, W11481108 $178.08, W11513246 $190.98, W11624938 $203.27, W11543997 $211.61, W11116592 $218.03, W11201286 $293.12, W11419171 $317.99, W11611438 $419.09 (dishwasher boards and motor control boards excluded). https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=whirlpool%20washer%20control%20board
- S6. Search "whirlpool washer motor control board" (Whirlpool-labeled): W10756692 $236.67, WP8183196 $246.95, WPW10374126 $283.63, WPW10163007 $337.39 (unlabeled, Frigidaire-format, and washer/dryer combo boards excluded). https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=whirlpool%20washer%20motor%20control%20board
- S7. Search "whirlpool washer drive motor": WP661600 $138.89, WP21001950 $152.26, WPW10140583 $200.76, WPW10140581 $284.76, WP8529935 $286.25, WPW10249629 $304.25, WP3352287 $317.83, WP8182447 $431.54 (stator and rotor sold separately excluded). https://www.searspartsdirect.com/search?q=whirlpool%20washer%20drive%20motor
Pro-cost guide sources [GUIDE] (US national averages, parts + labor, not brand-specific quotes; the guide pages carry 2023–2025 dates, so local quotes may differ):
- G1. Fixr, "How much does it cost to repair a washing machine?" (updated January 31, 2025): repairs $150–$400, national average $300; washer won't start $200–$400 (check power and fuses first; causes include the motor, control board, door locks and belt); lid switch $85–$160; door lock $110–$200; motherboard $250–$400; timer $100–$280; motor $300–$500; diagnosis visit $50–$100; replacement $650–$2,100. https://www.fixr.com/costs/washing-machine-repair (accessed 2026-10-30)
- G2. HomeGuide, "How Much Does Washing Machine Repair Cost? (2026)": average $100–$400; door lock or lid switch $100–$300; control board $350–$550; timer $150–$300; motor $300–$700; $50–$125 per hour with minimum fees of $70–$130; new washer $700–$1,300; front-load washers won't run with a broken door lock; replacing is usually cheaper if the washer is 7 to 10 years old and needs frequent repairs; washers last 8–13 years. https://homeguide.com/costs/washing-machine-repair-cost (accessed 2026-10-30)
Disclosure
Fix It or Replace is an independent site. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Whirlpool Corporation. "Whirlpool" is a trademark of its owner and is used here only to describe the products we cover.
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- Call line: Phone numbers labeled "partner pro" are operated by a third-party lead service that routes your call to an independent repair provider in your area. We may be paid for calls. We don't employ the technicians, and we don't guarantee their work, pricing, or availability. Confirm licensing, insurance, and quotes directly with the provider.
- Prices are estimates and change often. Always get a written quote.
- Safety: Unplug the washer before removing the console or any panel. Never bypass a lid or door lock.
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