How to Test and Replace the Main Control Board on a GE Washer

Having trouble with your GE top load washer stopping mid-cycle, not starting, or showing error codes? The main control board might be the issue. This component controls the washer’s functions, and when it fails, the appliance won’t run properly. Whether you have a gas or electric model, we’ll walk you through how to test and replace it to get your washer working again.

If you need any replacement parts for your GE 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

• 1/4 inch nut driver
• Multimeter
• Narrow pin extensions

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 GE top load washer’s main control board

Step 1. Access the main control board

1. Unplug the washer.
2. Move to the back of the washer and use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screws holding the access panel.
3. Slide the panel to the right to release the tabs and remove them. Set the panel aside.
4. Pull back on the console to unlock it, then rotate it forward to access the control board.

Step 2. Test the main control board

LIVE VOLTAGE WARNING: For this test, the washer needs to be plugged in and powered on. Please be very careful to protect yourself from electric shock, which has the potential to cause serious injuries. Don’t ever test live voltage if you’re uncomfortable using a multimeter.

1. Plug the washer back in to run diagnostic tests.
2. Hold the start button while turning the main control knob seven clicks in either direction.
3. Release the start button to enter service mode.
4. Turn the knob clockwise until the lights on the display match Test 14 (check the tech sheet for model-specific details).
5. Move to the back of the washer, keeping the access panel removed.
6. Tilt the control panel forward by pulling back on it to release the locking tabs, then rotate it up and lay it on top of the washer.
7. Set the multimeter to AC voltage mode.
8. Locate the lid switch wiring harness and probe the red and blue wires.
9. Press the start button to begin the spin test.
10. Observe the voltage reading on the multimeter. If the main control board is working correctly, it should send approximately 120V to the lid switch lock.
11. If the voltage is not 120V, the main control board is faulty and needs to be replaced.
12. Unplug the washer before proceeding with the replacement.

Step 3. Remove the main control board

1. Lift the console up to access the control board.
2. Remove the control knob by pulling it straight off and set it aside.
3. Disconnect the pressure hose and all wire harness connectors.
4. If connectors are tight, use a small flat-blade screwdriver to release the locking tabs.
5. Use the 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screws securing the control board.
6. Unclip and remove the mounting bracket.
7. Lift the control board out of the console.

Step 4. Install the new control board

1. Position the new control board into the console, making sure the shaft goes through the opening.
2. Reattach the mounting bracket, making sure the clips lock in place.
3. Use the 1/4-inch nut driver to reinstall the screws that secure the control board.
4. Reconnect all wire harnesses, making sure each one is properly seated and locked in place.
5. Reconnect the pressure hose.

Step 5. Reassemble the washer

1. Rotate the control panel back into position, line up the tabs, and push it forward to lock it in place.
2. Reinstall the access panel by lining up the tabs, sliding it to the left, and securing it with the screws using the 1/4-inch nut driver.
3. Move to the front of the washer and reinstall the control knob, lining up the flat side of the shaft with the knob.

Step 6. Program the new control board

1. Plug the washer back in.
2. Press the start button. The lights should turn off.
3. Press and release the start button repeatedly until the correct personality setting appears.
4. If the washer model is GTW500, select personality 5.
5. Once the correct personality is selected, the control board is programmed.
6. Confirm all components are reassembled.
7. Run a test cycle to verify proper operation.

Additional information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you test and replace the main control board in your GE top load washer. For any other parts you may need, just go to AppliancePartsPros.com with your model number and we’ll help you take care of the rest! We’ve got over two million parts in stock, and most orders arrive in just two business days.

Need some extra help? Give us a shout at 1 (877) 477-7278 or start a chat with us at your convenience. While you’re waiting on your new parts, check out our DIY blog and watch our video tutorials on YouTube. Follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram to stay connected and explore the latest repair guides!