Why is the lid locked light flashing on my Whirlpool top load washer?

Author: Bernice Okuneva  |  Last update: Wednesday, February 4, 2026

When there's an issue with the lid switch, your washer may interpret that the lid is open incorrectly, which triggers the lock light to flash. To diagnose if this is the issue, first visually inspect the switch for any obvious damage. Also, listen for an audible click when you close the lid.

Why is the lid lock light flashing on my Whirlpool washer?

The Lid Lock Light will flash if: Lid Lock has not moved into the Lock Position. The Lock Motor can not be powered. The lid is not closed completely due to interference.

How do you reset the lid lock on a Whirlpool washer?

Initially, unplug the machine and wait 5 minutes before plug back in. Then power on the machine, and press the start button. Reboot the washer by following the open/close lid reset. Just open and close the lid 6 times in 12 seconds after you press the start button.

How do I reset my Whirlpool washer door lock flashing?

Step-by-Step Guide to Fix the Issue

The first and simplest step is to unplug the washer. Leave it unplugged for about 60 seconds. This often resets the electronics and resolves the flashing lock light issue.

How to fix lid lock error on washing machine?

  • Turn off the Washer and unplug the appliance
  • Locate the retaining tabs and/or screws that hold the top horizontal panel down
  • Look for the Lid Lock SWITCH on the underside of the top panel and where it fits into the appliance.
  • Put the Lid back down and plug the Washing Machine back into the electrical outlet.

Whirlpool Washer Blinking Locked Light

How do I reset my washing machine lock top loader?

Reset the washer door lock

Unplug the washer: Unplug the washer from the power source. If the plug is difficult to reach, or is hard-wired to the power supply, shut it off at the breaker. 2. Wait for a minute: Wait for 1-5 minutes before plugging the washer back in to reset the internal systems.

Why is my Whirlpool washer stuck in lock mode?

The most common cause of a Whirlpool washer door being locked and not being able to open is a faulty lid switch (including the striker). The door switch locks and unlocks your door depending on which stage your wash cycle is at. When it becomes defective, your washer door may not unlock when it's supposed to.

Why is my Whirlpool washer just blinking?

On newer model washing machines, this can be indicated to show there is an issue with the water supply by either a flashing light or a tap symbol. In some cases, the drain hose not being positioned at the right height correctly can also lead to problems of your appliance stopping mid cycle.

How do you force a washing machine to reset?

To reset the electronic controls on your washer, shut off the circuit breaker or fuse to the washer or unplug the washer for 2 minutes. For models that have a timer control knob, turn the knob around and back to any position other than final spin for the interrupted cycle. Then, restore power.

How do you unlock a Whirlpool washer after error code?

How To Unlock a Whirlpool Washer
  1. Press the “Control Lock” button on your Whirlpool washer for three seconds. ...
  2. If the door still doesn't open, press the “End of Cycle” button (if your washing machine has one) for five seconds. ...
  3. If the door still doesn't open, a full reset is required.

How do I reset the lid lock on my Whirlpool washer?

Cycle power to the control to reset the washer:

If your washer is plugged into an outlet, simply unplug the unit for one minute and then plug the unit back in.

Why is my Whirlpool lid locked flashing?

Again... the lid lock flashing typically means lid lock error... It can lock and unlock - but not be working correctly... and then if that IS working ok, then the control board is faulty and causing this issue...

What is a common problem for a whirlpool washer?

What are common problems with washing machines? Leaks, odors, loud noises and trouble with draining or spinning are all problems that can occur in a washing machine. If you have a front load washer, a common cause of these issues can be a dirty drain pump filter.

Why won't my Whirlpool control lock turn off?

The most common reasons your Whirlpool washer control lock won't turn off are a defective control panel, malfunctioning electronic control board, or a failed door switch.

How to reset whirlpool washer without unplugging?

Press and Hold “Start” and “Power” Buttons
  1. Simultaneously press "Start" or "Pause" (depending on your model), and "Cancel" or“Power” buttons at the same time.
  2. Hold the buttons for about 5 seconds.
  3. Release the buttons and run a short cycle to check if the washer has been reset.

Why is my Whirlpool washer not draining and locked?

Kinked or Clogged Drain Hose

Check the hose for visible kinks. If you find any, gently straighten them. If the hose seems damaged, consider replacing it. To look for blockages, detach the hose from the washer and/or standpipe and remove any clogs.

Does unplugging a washer reset it top loader?

Similar to front load washers, you can use these simple steps to help reset a top load washer: Unplug the washer. Wait a few minutes. This allows residual power to clear to help prevent glitches.

How do you unlock a Whirlpool top load washer?

For a top-load washer, you can use a putty knife to release the locking tabs for the top panel. Depending on your model, you may need to disconnect the back console before the lid will lift up.

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