How to Fix Whirlpool Front Load Washer Start Button WP8181861

Struggling with a stubborn washing machine that just won’t start? It’s possible that the start button is the culprit, but don’t worry, there’s no need for a costly repair service. With our easy-to-follow guide and step-by-step how-to video below, you’ll have your laundry routine back on track in no time!

Looking for the right part? Enter your appliance model number below to find the exact match and get your appliance running like new again!

Having trouble getting your front-load washing machine to start? If pushing the start button no longer kicks off the wash cycle, the button itself might need replacing. It’s a pretty simple DIY fix that you can handle in no time with some basic tools. Let’s get started!

Watch here: How to replace the start button for a washer

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

Tools and materials needed

• Torx T20 screwdriver
• Flat blade screwdriver
• New OEM start button (part #WP8181861)-Take your model number to AppliancePartsPros.com to locate the correct part for your appliance.

Safety first!

Your safety should always be the top priority when performing any appliance repair. 

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of electric shock. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it. 
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.
• If your appliance has any parts that hold water, turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.

Remove the top panel

The start button replacement process begins by taking off the washer’s top panel to access the internal components and control board:

1. Using your Torx T20 screwdriver, remove the three screws securing the top panel above the rear access panel. These are located near the back of the machine.
2. With the screws out, slide the top panel back about an inch. You should then be able to lift it off cleanly. Set it aside without bending or creasing it.

Detach the control panel

 Next, you will need to remove the whole control panel assembly from the body of the washing machine:

1. Pull out the dispenser drawer completely and press the tab on the left rail to release it. Set it aside.
2. Using your Torx T20 driver, remove the single screw on the left side of the control panel. There is also a locking tab on the opposite right side – lift it vertically to disengage it.
3. Open the washer door and locate the bottom locking tab in the middle underside of the control panel. Insert a flat blade screwdriver into the slot and rotate it 90 degrees to release the tab.
4. You can now lift the control panel up and away from the front frame of the washing machine. Move slowly and carefully so as not to damage any of the wiring.

Remove the control panel assembly

With the control panel detached, it’s time to remove it and disconnect the underlying electronic components:

1. Locate the ribbon connector that joins the main control board and control panel interface. This wire harness should have a locking tab – press that, then gently unplug the ribbon connector.
2. The control panel wire harness is secured with several plastic retainer clips. One by one, gently pull these clips away to loosen the harness.
3. Keep pulling the harness so it passes through the front frame opening from which you removed the control panel. You may need to carefully twist or turn the wire bundle to fit it through.

Replace the faulty start button

Now comes the actual start button replacement! With the control panel assembly on a steady surface, swapping out the button is fast and simple:

1. The knob stem must be taken off to access the underlying interface module. Insert a flat blade screwdriver on the edges of the knob and gently pry it loose. Set it aside.
2. The circular button interface is held to the control panel via eight locking tabs around its circumference. Slide a flat blade around it to unlock and press these tabs simultaneously. The interface should then come loose.
3. On the back of the interface unit, rotate the start button 1/4 turn clockwise to detach it.
4. Discard the faulty button.
5. Press your new replacement start button into the slot and twist it counterclockwise to secure it.
6. With the fresh start button installed, simply line up the interface unit with the control panel holes and firmly press around the edges to re-lock the eight perimeter tabs in place.

Reinstall control panel

You’re in the home stretch now! Just a few more steps to button things up:

1. Slide the flexible ribbon connector on the end of the wire harness through the opening in the top brace above the wash tub. Center it roughly from left to right.
2. Keeping all wires clear of pinches or snags, carefully situate the control panel so the screw holes, tabs, and slots line up correctly. Then press firmly so the side locking tabs snap securely back into place.
3. Plug the ribbon connector on the end of the control panel wire harness back into its slot on the main logic board. Make sure the locking tab clicks to signify a solid connection.
4. Slide the dispenser drawer and rails back into position above the control panel. You should hear a click when it’s fully engaged.

Finish up

1. Reinstall the single control panel screw on the left
2. Slide on the top panel and screw it securely in place with three Torx T20 fasteners
3. Reconnect the washing machine to electrical power and turn on the water valves
4. Press the start button to power on and listen for any unusual sounds
5. Run a test cycle with no clothes to verify the proper function

More information

Thanks for stopping by! We hope this guide helped you replace the start button on your Whirlpool front load washer.

If you run into any issues, just give us a call at 1-877-477-7278 or start a chat with a pro on our website so we can help you through it. We’ve got many more troubleshooting and repair guides on our DIY blog and YouTube channel, and, of course, all the parts you need to do it yourself at AppliancePartsPros.com. 

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