Washer stops mid cycle: Common Causes & How to Fix

Repair Instructions:

When the rinse cycle begins, the water inlet valve opens up to let water flow into the wash tub. If this valve malfunctions, the washer will keep waiting for the water to enter, resulting in the cycle stopping abruptly. To check if the water inlet valve is faulty, you can use a multimeter to test for power. If you have power at the water valve and it's not letting water into the unit then you will need to replace the water valve.

How to Replace Washing Machine Water Inlet Valve

1. Shut off water supply. Turn off the valves where the water lines attach to the washing machine. This prevents flooding during repairs.

2. Release water pressure. Run the wash cycle to drain any remaining water trapped in the lines before proceeding.

3. Disconnect hoses. Detach the hot and cold water hoses from the valve itself using pliers if necessary.

4. Remove mounting hardware. Use a screwdriver to take out any screws or bolts attaching the inlet valve to the machine.

5. Extract old valve. Ease the inlet valve out of position once it is fully detached from mountings and water lines.

6. Inspect seal rings. If the rubber seal rings inside the valve port are cracked or deteriorated, replace them now.

7. Install new valve. Position the replacement inlet valve where the old one sat, aligning holes for mounting hardware.

8. Reattach securely. Replace all mounting bolts or screws removed earlier to fasten the new valve firmly in place.

9. Reconnect water lines. Attach the hot and cold water supply hoses to the new inlet valve ports using pliers if needed.

10. Restore water supply. Turn on valves to refill lines and test connections for leaks before operating.

Repair Instructions:

The lid switch assembly is responsible for stopping the washer from spinning when the lid is open. If this assembly fails, the washer might unexpectedly stop during a cycle. To check if the lid switch assembly is faulty, you can use a multimeter to test each of the lid switches for continuity. If a lid switch does not show continuity, you will need to replace the lid switch assembly.

How to Replace Washing Machine Lid Switch Assembly

1. Unplug the washing machine. Disconnect the machine from the power source. This will prevent electric shock.

2. Open the lid. Prop the washing machine lid fully open.

3. Locate the switch. The lid switch assembly is on the front panel of the washer. Identify the specific location.

4. Remove switch mounting screws. Use a screwdriver to detach any screws securing the switch assembly.

5. Disconnect wiring. Carefully disconnect the wiring harness or connectors attached to the switch.

6. Remove switch assembly. With the screws and wiring detached, you can now fully remove the lid switch assembly.

7. Install new switch. Carefully align the new lid switch assembly into the opening on the washer front panel.

8. Reconnect wiring. Attach the wiring harness or connectors to the corresponding terminals on the new switch.

9. Remount the switch. Insert and tighten the mounting screws to secure the new lid switch assembly in place.

10. Test operation. Plug in the washer and open/close the lid to verify proper switch operation before regular use.

11. Reattach panel. If accessing from inside the cabinet, reattach the metal panel covering the lid switch assembly.

12. Restore power. Plug the washing machine back in and make sure it is functioning properly.

Repair Instructions:

Since a washing machine control board provides voltage to nearly all of the washer's electrical components, a board with a shorted component may send continuous voltage to the water inlet valve, causing the washer to overflow. You can inspect the board for signs of burning or a shorted-out component and use a multimeter to test the power output terminals on the board after reviewing the appliance's wiring diagram. Some washing machine control boards will have a built-in pressure sensor used to determine how much water to allow into the tub. The control board pressure sensor monitors the amount of water entering the tub during the fill cycle and will shut off voltage to the water inlet valve when the water has reached the proper level. A defective control board pressure sensor may allow too much water to fill the tub resulting in the washer overflowing. You can use a multimeter to test for appropriate changes in electrical continuity to help determine if the component is defective.

How to Replace Washing Machine Control Board

1. Unplug the washing machine. Disconnect the power cord before servicing to prevent electric shock.

2. Open the control panel. The control board is located behind the control panel on the washer front.

3. Label connections. Take note of where each wire and connector is attached to the control board.

4. Disconnect wires. Carefully detach all wiring harnesses and connectors from the board.

5. Remove mounting screws. Use a screwdriver to remove any screws securing the control board.

6. Remove control board. Carefully pull the control board free from the washer once all wires are detached.

7. Install new control board. Align the replacement board into position and insert mounting screws.

8. Reconnect wires. Attach all wiring harnesses and connectors to the matching terminals on the new board.

9. Close control panel. Carefully close the control panel once the new board is installed.

10. Restore power. Plug in the washing machine and test operation.

11. Program control board. You may need to program or configure the new control board if it doesn't operate correctly.

12. Test cycles. Run short test cycles to verify the washer is functioning properly before regular use.

Repair Instructions:

The door lock is an important part of the washer that keeps the door securely closed while it is running. When the washer door is properly closed, it can start operating. If the door is not latched correctly, there is a safety feature called the door switch that prevents the washer from starting. If there is a problem with the door lock, the washer might stop working in the middle of a cycle. The door lock can fail due to mechanical issues or electrical problems. It is recommended to inspect the door lock for any signs of damage. If the door lock is damaged or doesn't latch properly, it should be replaced. To determine if the door lock has an electrical issue, you can refer to your washer's diagram and use a multimeter to test each of the door lock switches for continuity. If any of the switches do not show continuity, you will need to replace the part.

How to Replace Washing Machine Door Lock Motor and Switch Assembly

1. Shut off power at breaker box. Turn off power to the washer to work safely.

2. Open the washing machine lid. Raise the lid fully to access the inner door area.

3. Locate retaining screws. The door lock assembly will be attached to the inner door panel. Remove 3-4 screws holding it in place.

4. Disconnect wires. Note the wire colors and locations before disconnecting wires from back of old assembly.

5. Remove old assembly. Detach locking mechanism from door by gently wiggling while applying some pressure outward.

6. Clean mounting area. Wipe away any debris from inner door panel where new assembly will mount.

7. Attach new assembly. Set replacement assembly onto clean mounting point and start retaining screws by hand.

8. Reconnect wires. Match colors to proper terminals on new assembly.

9. Test locking function. Close lid and press door lock button to ensure it functions properly.

10. Restore power. Reconnect power at breaker when finished. Test wash cycle with locked door.

Repair Instructions:

While it is possible that the main control board could be causing the issue, it is not very common. Before considering replacing the main control board, it is advisable to examine other parts that are more likely to be the cause of the problem.

How to Replace Washing Machine Main Control Board

1. Unplug the washing machine. Disconnect power to prevent electric shock.

2. Open control panel. Unscrew the control panel on the washer to access interior.

3. Locate control board. The main control board is mounted to the cabinet interior.

4. Label wire connections. Note where each wire harness connects to the control board.

5. Disconnect wires. Detach all wire harnesses from the terminals on the control board.

6. Remove mounting screws. Use a screwdriver to remove screws securing control board.

7. Remove control board. Carefully detach old control board from the washer.

8. Install new control board. Align replacement board and reinsert mounting screws.

9. Reconnect wires. Attach all wire harnesses to proper terminals on new control board.

10. Close control panel. Carefully close and screw the control panel back on.

11. Restore power. Plug in washing machine and test operation.

12. Program control board. You may need to program the new control board if needed.

Repair Instructions:

The washing machine has a drain pump that helps remove water from the tub. It does this by pushing the water through a drain hose into a laundry tub or drain pipe. During a wash cycle, water may be drained from the tub multiple times. If the drain pump is faulty, it can cause the washer to stop in the middle of a cycle. If you notice water remaining in the tub after the washer stops, it's important to check the drain pump for any blockages or obstructions. You can use a multimeter to test the drain pump for electrical continuity.

How to Replace Washing Machine Drain Pump

1. Unplug washing machine. Locate the plug on the back of the machine and disconnect from power source to prevent electric shock.

2. Remove access panel. Find panel that provides access to internal components, usually on the bottom front of the machine. Lift panel off after removing any retaining screws.
3. Disconnect drain hose. Detach hose from old pump and drain remaining water from hose into a bucket. Apply clamp if needed to prevent additional water escaping.
4. Remove retaining bolts. Identify and loosen bolts or screws securing pump in place using appropriate tool like screwdriver or wrench.
5. Remove old pump. Slide out old pump taking care not to damage surrounding components. Check area for any worn washers or seals in need of replacement as well.
6. Install new pump. Line up and insert replacement pump into location. Secure with the retaining bolts removed earlier.
7. Reconnect drain hose. Attach drain hose to new pump outlet, push firmly into place.
8. Replace access panel. Position panel over opening and secure with any screws.
9. Test operation. Reconnect power and run short cycle without laundry to check for leaks from connections. Fix any issues before regular use.

Repair Instructions:

There is a possibility that the timer is not functioning properly. It is important to note that the timer is often incorrectly identified as the problem. Before considering replacing the timer, inspect other parts that are more commonly found to be defective. To determine if the timer is indeed faulty, you can refer to your washer's wiring diagram and use a multimeter to test the timer for continuity.

How to Replace Washing Machine Timer

1. Shut off power. Turn off electricity to the washer at the circuit breaker or unplug it before servicing electrical components.

2. Remove outer panel. Detach any outer covers or casings blocking access to the timer module inside using a screwdriver.

3. Disconnect wires. Note the wire colors and locations before disconnecting all electrical wires from the old timer terminals.

4. Remove mounting screws. A few screws typically secure the timer module to the inside of the washer cabinet. Remove them.

5. Withdraw old timer. Once fully detached from wires and frame, gently lift out the old timer control module straight away.

6. Insert new timer. Set the replacement module into the vacant space, aligning any mounting holes if present.

7. Reattach wires. Reconnect each wire to the properly colored terminal on the new timer, referring to notes if needed.

8. Refasten module. Replace the mounting screws to securely fix the timer into position inside the washer.

9. Refit covers. Slide outer panels back into place to conceal repairs before restoring power.

10. Test washing cycles. Run various cycles to ensure the new timer is functioning normally.

Repair Instructions:

The door latch is responsible for securely closing the washer door during operation. Once the door is properly shut, the washer can start working. However, if the washer door is not latched shut, the door switch will prevent the washer from operating. If there's a problem with the door latch, the washer will not spin or start. The door latch can fail either mechanically or electrically. Check the door latch for any signs of damage. If the latch is damaged or doesn't close correctly, it should be replaced. To check if the door latch has an electrical issue, you can use a multimeter to test the switches on the latch for continuity. If any of the switches lack continuity when activated, it's necessary to replace the switch.

How to Replace Washing Machine Door Latch

1. Unplug the washing machine. Disconnect power to avoid electric shock.

2. Open the door. Prop the door fully open to access the latch assembly.

3. Remove inner door panel. Detach the screws or clips to remove the inner door panel, if needed for access.

4. Detach latch linkage. Disconnect the latch assembly linkage rods from the door mechanism.

5. Remove mounting screws. Use a screwdriver to detach any screws securing the latch to the door frame.

6. Remove old latch. Carefully detach and remove the old, malfunctioning latch mechanism.

7. Install new latch. Align and insert the new latch assembly into the door frame opening.

8. Reattach mounting screws. Tighten screws to securely fasten the latch assembly in place.

9. Reconnect latch linkages. Attach the latch linkage rods back to the door mechanism.

10. Replace inner door panel. If removed, reattach the inner door panel.

11. Test operation. Close the door and test the latch engagement before regular use.

12. Restore power. Plug washing machine back in once the new latch is installed and working.

Repair Instructions:

The damper in a washing machine limits drum movement and maintains balance during the wash cycle. If a damper is faulty or broken, it can cause the tub to become unbalanced, and shut off mid cycle. Visually inspect dampers for cracks or damage, and observe drum movement during operation to check for proper centering. If a damper is defective, it will need to be replaced.

How to Replace Washing Machine Damper

1. Unplug washer and open access panel. Disconnect power and remove rear or bottom panel to access internal components.

2. Detach drain hose from damper. Remove any clips securing hose and pull hose off old damper.

3. Remove mounting bolts. Using appropriate tools, loosen and remove all bolts securing damper housing in place.

4. Detach damping springs. Use pliers to grasp and gently remove damper springs from housing lugs and tube. Note orientation.

5. Extract old damper. Ease damper housing out of position, wiggling as needed. Remove damper blade and housing as one piece if possible.

6. Clean housing mating area. Wipe away debris from inner rim where damper housing sits using dry cloth.

7. Fit new damper springs. Attach replacement damping springs onto lugs in correct position mirroring old installation.

8. Install new damper housing. Push housing into place, aligning bolt holes. Refit mounting bolts.

9. Attach drain hose. Push drain hose firmly onto new damper outlet, secure with clips.

10. Test operation. Run empty cycle and check damper blade movement and drain flow are unrestricted before use.

Repair Instructions:

The pressure switch is responsible for cutting off power to the water inlet valve once the correct water level is reached. If the pressure switch is intermittently failing, it may not be able to detect that the water has drained from the tub, causing the washing machine to stop during a cycle. To check if the pressure switch is working properly, you can use a multimeter to test for changes in electrical continuity while blowing air into the air tube. It is important to inspect the air tube that connects the pressure switch to the tub. Make sure it is free from any debris and is not leaking.

How to Replace Washing Machine Pressure Switch

1. Shut off water. Turn off the water supply valves located where the water hoses attach to the washing machine. This prevents water from escaping during the repair.

2. Release water pressure. Run the washing machine through a spin cycle to drain any remaining water from the hoses and pump.

3. Detach hoses. Disconnect the hoses from both the water inlet and outlet ports of the old pressure switch. You may need an adjustable wrench.

4. Locate switch. Find the pressure switch, usually mounted on the back, side or bottom of the washing machine cabinet. It will have labeled ports for hose connections.

5. Remove switch. Unscrew any mounting bolts, nuts or screws to detach the old pressure switch from the machine housing. Remove the switch completely.

6. Install new switch. Line up the replacement pressure switch and hand-tighten the mounting hardware to secure it in the same position.

7. Reconnect hoses. Firmly push the hoses onto the corresponding ports of the new pressure switch. Ensure there are no leaks.

8. Restore water supply. Turn the water valves back on and check for leaks at the hose connections before running a test cycle.

Repair Instructions:

If the entire display is unresponsive, not just the start button, then it is possible that the control panel itself needs replacement to resolve the issue of the washer shutting off mid cycle.

How to Replace Washing Machine Control Panel

1. Shut off power. Disconnect the washing machine from its power source by unplugging it or tripping the circuit breaker. This ensures no power flows to the machine.

2. Remove cabinet panels. Refer to your owner's manual to locate and remove any outer cabinet panels that conceal the internal components. This provides access to the control panel area.

3. Disconnect wiring. Carefully note the position of each wire connection on the old control panel. Remove wiring harness connectors by squeezing locking tabs and pulling straight away from terminals.

4. Remove mounting screws. Use a Phillips head or hex screwdriver to remove any screws securing the control panel assembly to the machine cabinet. There may be several mounting points.

5. Lift out old panel. Firmly grasp the edges of the control panel and lift it straight up and out of the mounting bracket. Maneuver wires as needed for clearance.

6. Install new panel. Set the new control panel into position in the mounting bracket. Insert any mounting screws and tighten securely.

7. Reconnect wiring. Plug wiring harness connectors into the matching terminals on the new control panel. Double check positions against your notes from removal.

8. Replace cabinet panels. Reinstall any outer cabinet panels removed in Step 2.

9. Restore power. Reconnect the washing machine to its power source or reset the circuit breaker. Test the new control panel for proper function.

Repair Instructions:

If your top-load washer is unexpectedly stopping in the middle of a cycle, it could be due to a broken suspension rod. This can cause the tub to become unbalanced, preventing it from spinning or agitating correctly. To address this issue, carefully examine the suspension rods for any signs of damage. If you find any damage, you will need to replace all the suspension rods at the same time to ensure even wear and better performance.

How to Replace Washing Machine Suspension Rod

1. Unplug the washing machine from the power source. This ensures the washing machine will not start during the repair.

2. Tip the washing machine back. Carefully tip the washing machine back to access the bottom panel. You may need assistance to prevent the machine from tipping over.

3. Remove the bottom panel. The bottom panel is usually held in place by screws along the bottom edge. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws and detach the panel.

4. Locate the suspension rod. The rod will extend from the washing machine tub to the base. Identify which suspension rod needs replacing.

5. Remove the retaining clips. Use pliers to detach the retaining clips or rings holding the suspension rod in place.

6. Slide out the old rod. Carefully slide out the old rod from the washing machine tub and base. You may need to wiggle it side to side to detach it.

7. Install the new rod. Slide the new suspension rod into place, inserting it into the tub and base.

8. Secure with retaining clips. Reattach any retaining clips or rings to hold the new rod firmly in place.

9. Replace the bottom panel. Line up the bottom panel and screw it back into place along the bottom edge.

10. Return the washing machine to upright position. Carefully tip the washing machine back to an upright position.

11. Plug washing machine back in. Reconnect the power source so the washing machine is ready to use.

12. Test it out. Run a test cycle with no clothes to verify the washing machine is functioning properly before using again.

Repair Instructions:

Make sure the washer is properly plugged into the wall and that there is power coming from the wall receptacle. To verify this, you can try plugging in another small appliance to check if it receives power. If there is no power, you will need to check if the circuit breaker has been tripped.

Repair Instructions:

The door lock plays an important role in keeping the washer door securely closed while it is in operation. Once the washer door is properly shut, the machine can start working. If the door is not latched correctly, there is a door switch that prevents the washer from starting. If there is a problem with the door lock, the washer might stop in the middle of a cycle. The door lock can fail due to mechanical or electrical issues. It is recommended to carefully examine the door lock for any signs of damage. If the door lock is damaged or does not latch properly, it should be replaced. To determine if the door lock has an electrical problem, you can consult the washer's diagram and use a multimeter to test each of the door lock switches, if the switch doesn't have continuity it will need to be replaced.

How to Replace Washing Machine Door Lock

1. Shut off power. Unplug the washing machine from the electrical outlet or turn off the power at the circuit breaker to ensure the machine won't accidentally turn on during repairs.

2. Remove outer cover. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove any screws securing the outer plastic or metal cover. Lift it off to access the inner components.

3. Disconnect old lock. Locate the door lock assembly, usually on the bottom left or right side of the tub opening. Unplug any electrical connections and unwind wire clips or ties holding the wires in place.

4. Unfasten lock bolts. Use your screwdriver to remove any mounting bolts, screws or clips attaching the old lock to the washing machine frame. Lift it out once it's fully detached.

5. Align new lock. Hold the replacement lock in position so the bolt holes line up with the frame. Make sure gaskets or seals are in the correct position first if applicable.

6. Reattach with bolts. Thread the mounting bolts back through the lock and tighten them to secure it firmly in place. Do not overtighten.

7. Reconnect wires. Plug any electrical connections back into the replacement lock and secure wires with ties or clips to protect them.

8. Replace cover. Slide the outer cover back into position and install the retaining screws to complete the repair. Restore power and test that the new lock is functioning properly before use.

Repair Instructions:

A shift actuator is a part found in top-load washers that is responsible for switching the tub's rotation from agitate to spin. A broken shift actuator can cause the unit to stop mid cycle. It is important to examine the shift actuator for any signs of damage and replace it if needed.

How to Replace Washing Machine Shift Actuator

1. Prepare for the replacement: Gather the necessary tools and equipment for the replacement process. You will typically need a wrench, pliers, screwdriver, and a replacement shift actuator that matches your specific washing machine model. Make sure that the washing machine is unplugged and disconnected from any power source.

2. Access the shift actuator: The shift actuator is usually located near the motor and transmission assembly of the washing machine. Depending on the model, you may need to remove the control panel or the rear access panel to access the shift actuator. Consult the manufacturer's instructions or the washing machine's manual for specific guidance.

3. Disconnect the wiring: Locate the wiring harness connected to the shift actuator. Carefully disconnect the wiring by gently pulling apart the connectors. Take note of the positions or colors of the wires for proper reconnection later.

4. Remove the old shift actuator: Use a wrench or pliers to loosen and remove any mounting screws or bolts that secure the shift actuator to the washing machine. Once the fasteners are removed, carefully detach the old shift actuator from its position.

5. Install the new shift actuator: Take the replacement shift actuator and align it with the mounting location on the washing machine. Ensure that it fits securely into place. Use the previously removed bolts or screws to fasten the new shift actuator to the machine. Tighten them appropriately but avoid over-tightening.

6. Reconnect the wiring: Reconnect the wiring harness to the corresponding connectors on the new shift actuator. Match the wire positions or colors as noted earlier to ensure correct alignment. Ensure that the connections are secure and properly seated.

7. Replace the control panel or access panel: If you removed the control panel or rear access panel to access the shift actuator, reattach it securely. Align it properly and use the appropriate screws or fasteners to secure it in place.

8. Test the washing machine: Plug the washing machine back into the power source and conduct a test run to ensure that the new shift actuator is functioning properly. Run a cycle and observe the shifting mechanism to verify that the replacement was successful. Pay attention to any unusual noises or malfunctions.

9. Clean up and dispose of old parts: Dispose of the old shift actuator and any other replaced parts responsibly. If the old parts are recyclable, consider taking them to a recycling center. Clean up your work area and store your tools properly.

Repair Instructions:

Make sure the water is reaching the tub properly. If the water supply is slow or not entering the tub at all, the washer will pause before the rinse cycle, waiting for the tub to fill. Several factors can cause this issue, including a clogged water inlet valve, partially closed main water supply valve, or low water pressure from the home's supply.You will need to check for any blockages in the water inlet valve and make sure that the main water supply valve is fully open. If you suspect low water pressure, you may need to contact your home's water supplier for assistance.