How To Test And Replace The Lid Lock On A Whirlpool Washer

Is your Whirlpool top-loading washer refusing to start or spin? We’re here to help you identify, test, and replace a faulty lid lock, so you can get back to laundry day without the hassle of calling a pro.

If you need any replacement parts for your Whirlpool top load washer, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

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.

What you need

• Phillips head screwdriver
• Putty knife
• Multimeter

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, always keep safety first to avoid personal injury or damage to the appliance or its parts. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating 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 while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part. 
• 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.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.
• 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.
• 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.

How to test and replace the lid lock  

Follow these steps to access, test, and replace the lid lock on your Whirlpool washer:

Step 1. Access the lid lock

1. Remove the screws on the back of the washer securing the control panel.
2. Use a putty knife to release the spring clips at the front corners of the control panel.
3. Roll the control panel upward and lift it off.
4. Remove the two screws at the back of the washer securing the main top.
5. Slide the main top forward, lift slightly, and align the tabs with the slots in the back.

Step 2. Test the lid lock

1. Check for error codes such as F5E1, F5E2, F5E3, or F5E4 on the control panel.
2. Inspect the lid and lock for obstructions preventing proper closure.
3. Verify that the J6 connector is fully inserted into the main control board.
4. Use a multimeter set to DC voltage to test between J6 pin 7 and J18 pin 3. If the voltage is greater than 1VDC, the main control board needs replacement.
5. If the voltage reads 0VDC, switch the multimeter to AC voltage and check between J6 pin 2 and J12 pin 3.
6. Perform the lid lock test using the service diagnostic mode and monitor for voltage spikes.

Step 3. Enter service diagnostic mode

1. Select three buttons on the control panel (not power) and press them sequentially three times within eight seconds.
2. Wait for all console indicators to light up for five seconds, with “888” displayed on the panel.
3. Press the second button from the initial selection to enter service test mode.
4. Use the soil level and temperature buttons to navigate to function 000 for door lock testing.
5. Activate the function with the start button and test the lock mechanism using a folded piece of cardboard to block latch movement.

Step 4. Interpret results

1. Observe for three voltage spikes, which indicate proper control operation.
2. If the latch does not move and error codes F5E2 or F5E3 appear, the lock mechanism is faulty.
3. If there are no voltage spikes, the main control board may require replacement.

Step 5. Replace the lid lock

1. Disconnect the J6 connector from the main control board.
2. Remove the two screws securing the main top and lift it.
3. Unscrew the latch and release the wiring harness from the clips.
4. Remove the faulty latch assembly.

Step 6. Install the new lock

1. Position the new latch and secure it with screws.
2. Route the wiring through the clips and connect it to the main control board.
3. Lower the main top and secure it with screws at the back.
4. Reattach the control panel and rear cover.
5. Test the washer to confirm that the new lid lock is operating correctly.

Find more DIY resources

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you test and replace the lid lock in your top-loading Whirlpool washer. 

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We have over two million parts in stock and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

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