How to tell if a washing machine door lock is broken?

Author: Ericka Roberts V  |  Last update: Saturday, January 3, 2026

The easiest way to tell if your washer door lock is faulty is if it simply will not latch shut. The washer cannot recognize the door as shut, so it won't start. Sometimes you hear a repeated “knocking” sound – that's the washer trying to lock or seal the door shut – if your door lock is broken or bad.

What to do if the washing machine door won't lock?

Try unplugging the washer for 5 minutes and the lock should unlock if it's stuck in the lock positon. If not, then you just need a new door latch assembly. (assuming your door is not bent down and the door striker isn't hitting the door). If your door is bent, pull up on it and bend the door hinge back up.

Will a washing machine work if the lock is broken?

If the washer can't lock the lid/door the main control will not allow the washer to start a cycle. So if you broke the locking mechanism no the washer will not work until the part is replaced.

How to know if a washer lock is broken?

How to test a washer lid or door lock. If the washer lid or door is fully closed, but the appliance will not start, or not spin or agitate, it's likely the switch in the lid or door lock has failed.

How long does a washing machine lock last?

Most washing machines use a thermal lock that releases the door two minutes after a cycle is complete. If your door handle is feeling stiff and won't move, the problem will be with the lock.

How a washing machine door lock works, how to test interlocks

What is the most expensive part to replace on a washing machine?

Drum. Unfortunately, the drum is the most expensive of all the possible washing machine replacement parts. Expect to spend at least $400 on a washing machine drum replacement. Water Inlet Valve.

How do you fix a locked washing machine?

How to Open A Locked Washing Machine Door
  1. Turn off the machine for 5-10 minutes and try opening it again: This method works in most cases when the door lock is stuck. ...
  2. Release a stuck door hook with a cord: ...
  3. Release a stuck door hook with an old card: ...
  4. Activate the door hook via the top of the machine: ...
  5. Call a professional:

Is it worth repairing a washing machine?

If you do only few loads of wash each week, your washer can last for several years beyond the average lifespan — especially if you've kept up with yearly washer maintenance. In that case, you can reasonably expect your middle-aged washer to last another 8 to 10 years, and repairing the washer is a safe bet.

How to fix a door lock that won't lock?

How to Fix a Door That Won't Latch
  1. Inspect.
  2. Gather Tools.
  3. Tighten Hinges.
  4. Shim the Hinges.
  5. Sand the Jambs.
  6. Enlarge the Strike Plate Hole.
  7. Move the Strike Plate.

How do you unlock a broken washing machine door?

Use strong, thin cord: You could try feeding some trimmer or fishing line around your washing machine's door to release its locking hook. Unplug your machine first, then wrap the cord around the door from the handle area and pull the line to the other side. This will hopefully move the hook back and unlock the door.

Why is my washing machine lid not locked?

Top-load washers won't lock because of issues with their lid, lid switch and actuator, lid lock, or control board. Whereas front-load models may have problems with the door latch/strike, door seal, door hinge, or control board.

What causes a washer not to unlock?

The most likely cause is an inoperative drain pump, or a clogged debris filter. If your washer has water inside the Drum, the door will not open to prevent a flood. If you are using to sanitize the cycle and the water is extremely hot, the door will not open to prevent injury. Straighten the drain hoses.

How do you diagnose a broken washing machine?

Typical Washer Problems
  1. The control panel doesn't work.
  2. Water isn't draining.
  3. The washer is vibrating excessively.
  4. There are water leaks.
  5. The drum doesn't spin properly.
  6. The drain pump is clogged.
  7. There's odor, mold, or mildew.

Can you replace a washing machine lock?

As well as being one of the easiest DIY appliances fixes out there, fixing your washing machine door lock yourself can save you a lot of money compared to booking a repair or buying a new washing machine.

Why is my washing machine not letting me open the door?

The most common cause is water left in the machine. Try running a spin/drain cycle. If this fails, the machine can be drained by placing the washing machine drain hose lower than the drum (into a bucket or tray). The door interlock has simply jammed.

How to open a jammed door lock?

To fix a stuck key, apply a lubricant such as graphite powder or a silicone-based spray to the keyhole. Gently wiggle the key while pulling it out. If this doesn't work, use a pair of needle-nose pliers to grip the key and carefully work it out.

Is a 10 year old washer worth fixing?

Fixing a 10-year-old washing machine is worth it if: Repair costs are less than 50% of a new washer. It's been reliable and parts are available. The issue is minor, like replacing a belt or hose.

How much does it cost to replace a door seal on a washing machine?

A washing machine gasket, also known as a door seal or rubber boot, costs between $50 and $200, depending on your brand and model. Some high-end models may have more expensive replacement gaskets.

What brand washing machine has the least repairs?

LG has consistently emerged as the best washer brand, often vying for the top spot with Speed Queen in Consumer Reports. This reputation cements LG's status as one of the best brand washers. A key factor in LG's popularity is its impressively low repair rates, making it a reliable choice in the appliance market.

What to do when washing machine door locks?

Leave it unplugged for a few minutes to allow any residual power to dissipate. Then, plug it back in and try opening the door. If the control panel continues to malfunction or the door remains locked, consult the manufacturer's manual or contact a professional technician for further assistance.

How many times can you use a lock washer?

Can lock washers get reused? Some lock washers can be reused. Internal and external tooth lock washers cannot typically get re-used as they have teeth that get bent when installed. Split ring lock washers can be reused.

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