Washing Machine Door Won’t Close: Top 4 Problems and Fixes for Top-Loading and Side-Loading Washers (With Video!)

Is your washing machine door stubbornly refusing to close, leaving you with a pile of unwashed laundry? You’re not alone, and the solution might be simpler than you think. Dive into our guide below, complete with a step-by-step how-to video, to discover how you can troubleshoot and fix this common household issue today!

There are four main components that can cause a washing machine door to be stuck open and unable to close. Troubleshooting the problem and repairing your washer yourself can save you money and time. Before you get started with the process, make sure the area is safe so no accidents occur. The washer should be unplugged or the circuit breaker should be turned off, and the hot and cold water supply should be turned off, as well. Once your washer is safe to work with, continue with this easy guide to diagnose which washing machine part is causing the problem.

1. Door Strike

One of the parts that can contribute to a washing machine door that won’t open is the door strike. This is a piece the door latch connects to so it can lock and keep the washer safe when being used. Most of the time, the strike is made out of plastic but it can come in various sizes and styles. Front-loading washers have a strike on the door while top-loading washers have strikes on the lid. If the door strike is damaged, it may not allow the door to close. If this is happening with the strike on your door, it is going to need to be replaced. Repairs can’t be done to door strikes so a replacement is the only method available to resolve the situation.

A manual release is found under the lock or inside of the detergent housing and will let you examine the door hook. In most cases, it will be attached with one or two screws. If your washing machine has a lid instead of a door, the main top can still be lifted if the lock is on. The door strike and switch lock assembly protrude through the top. If the strike turns out to be broken or warped, the strike needs to be replaced.

2. Door Latch Assembly

The second thing to look at if the washer door doesn’t close is the door latch assembly. This is one of the main safety components of the washer. If it isn’t working the way that it should be, it can make the washer door unable to close after it has been opened. The part is tasked with letting the washer know that the door is closed. There are many door lock assemblies in different washers, but if any stop working, the signal won’t go through that the door is open or closed, which can prevent the door from closing.

For washers that have a diagnostic mode, try to use it a few times and it should display an error code. If you have a front-loading washer, the door latch assembly is found behind the front panel. Those who have a top-loading washer will find it located on the top of the washing machine. After checking the door strike for damage, this is the next place to inspect for issues.

If the washer isn’t closing and you have an error message, look up the appliance error codes by brand here. If a code didn’t come up but you think the door latch assembly is having issues, you’ll need the user manual or a wiring diagram to see how you can check on the part. If it’s not working, it will need to be replaced.

3. Hinge

When your washing machine door doesn’t close, the door hinge is the next component to look at. This component is the area where the door or lid rotates when it opens or closes. There are many different types of hinges and they are available in a variety of sizes. However, all of them do the same job. The hinge will support the door or lid while being opened or closed. If the hinge is bound up or damage, it may cause the washer to stay open.

In a front-loading washer, the hinge is located on the outer edge of the door and can be mounted on either side. With a top-loading washer, there are two hinges attached to the back corners of the lid. If the hinge has become damaged, it can prevent the door or lid from closing and it will have to be replaced.

Door hinges can snap when used harshly or can wear out over time, which may mean the door is no longer able to close. If the hinge and its pins are located on the underside, the main top of the washer may need to be lifted. Then the hinge can be replaced so the washer door can be closed so laundry can be done.

4. Main Control Board

When a washer door is stuck in the open position, the last component to consider is the main control board. Once someone makes washing cycle selections, this board will control the functions through the process. This component takes input from the user interface control board and will also collect information from sensors, switches, and other controls. It times and initiates the cycles and monitors each function of the washing machine.

If there is a failure of the main control board, it can create a situation where the door won’t close. With a front-loading washer, the main control board is typically underneath the top of the washer or in the control panel. When using a top-loading washing machine, it will be inside of the console. While the failure of the main control board that prevents the door closing is rare, it should still be tested if the other parts have all been in good condition. If all the other components are working after testing, most user manuals will recommend that you replace the main control board.

Where To Find Us 

If you need any replacement parts for your appliances, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to locate and order them quickly. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have tons of great information in our repair help section and YouTube videos to help you troubleshoot.

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