Test & replace the door switch in a Speed Queen dryer: A step-by-step guide


Steven E / Wednesday August 7, 2024


Think there’s a bad door switch in your Speed Queen dryer? You can find out for sure and replace it if needed, and we’re here to help you through both processes.

If you need any replacement parts for your Speed Queen dryer, 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.

Important: The information provided in this article is based on model ADE4BRGS171TW01 and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

What you need

  • 5/16-inch nut driver
  • Multimeter

Important: The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it. Always consult the user manual or refer to any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the recommended tools for your appliance model.

Read more:  How To Disassemble A Dryer

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. 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.
  • If you have a gas model, shut off the gas supply to prevent any leaks while you work.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Read more: How to Clean a Dryer Vent

How to test the door switch

  1. Make sure the dryer is unplugged from the power source.
  2. Use the 5/16-inch nut driver to remove the two screws at the bottom of the front access panel.
  3. Use the 5/16-inch nut driver to remove the two screws — one on each bottom corner — that hold the upper panel.
  4. Rotate the bottom panel out to about 45 degrees and then move it down to access the door switch.
  5. Take a picture of the door switch wiring to use as a reference when reassembling the dryer later on.
  6. With the door closed, disconnect the wires from the door switch.
  7. Set a multimeter to continuity mode and use the probes to test for continuity between the terminal bent at a 90-degree angle (common terminal) and the terminal farthest away from it. If there’s no continuity, the door switch needs to be replaced. If there is continuity, then something else is causing the problem with your dryer.

How to replace the door switch (if needed)

If the door switch is faulty, you’ll need to replace it. Follow these steps to do it yourself.

  1. Make sure the dryer is unplugged from the power outlet.
  2. Find the two tabs that hold the door switch in place and press them in.
  3. Push the faulty door switch out of the front panel.
  4. Insert the new door switch into the front panel. Make sure it clicks into place.
  5. Reconnect the door switch wires by matching the wiring from the reference photo you took earlier.
  6. Angle the top front panel back into place and allow the top brackets to hook into the top panel.
  7. Rotate the front panel into its original position.
  8. Secure the bottom of the front panel with the two 5/16-inch screws that you removed earlier.
  9. Hook the bottom front panel back into place and secure it with the final two 5/16-inch screws.
  10. Plug the dryer back in or flip the circuit breaker back on.

Read more: Tips for Caring for Your Dryer | Clothes Dryer Maintenance

Additional information

You made it! Thanks for reading. We hope this guide helped you test and/or replace the door switch on your Speed Queen dryer.

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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