If the washing machine's lid strike does not line up with the lock or latch when you attempt to close the lid, it's likely the lid hinge is bent or misaligned. This can prevent the lid from locking. Inspect the hinge for damage and replace if necessary.
You should just need to press and hold the Delay Start button or the Signal button for 5 seconds to remove the control lock. If that doesn't work, unplug the washer and try again after 60 seconds. If it still won't work, you need to replace the front interface control board because it has failed.
Check the latch mechanism: The first step in fixing a washer door that won't lock is to check the latch mechanism. If the latch mechanism is broken or jammed, it will need to be replaced. Adjust the door strike: If the door strike is out of alignment, it can be adjusted.
Unplug the washer for one minute. Plug the washer back in and lift and lower the lid six times within a 12-second period.
To reset the washer control panel, it needs to be disconnected from the power source for one minute. If your washer is plugged into an outlet, simply unplug the unit for one minute and then plug the unit back in.
The clicking or ticking noise heard during the gentle cycle in both GE and Hotpoint brands is caused by the clutch and is normal. This noise can be heard all through the cycle, except when the washer is filling.
Washing machines should operate in a predictable manner. If your machine starts acting erratically, like stopping mid-cycle, skipping cycles, or not completing a cycle, the control board might be malfunctioning.
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. This allows any residual power to clear and can help reset the door lock mechanism.
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.
If the door lock does not engage the latch the door will not lock - when this happens you will be stuck - not being able to wash your garments. Check the door - you need to confirm that the lock engages correctly. If there is power to the washing machine and the lock does not engage you will need to replace the lock.
Washer Control 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.
GE (8-10 Years)
GE machines offer solid performance at a reasonable price and have an expected 8-10 year lifespan. While generally reliable, some models have developed issues with the control panels over time.
Control board repairs on washers can vary. Depending on the severity of the damage, this service will run anywhere from $150 to $300.
If the washer door or lid won't lock, the control board may be defective. However, this is rarely the case. Before replacing the control board, first check all of the components of the lock mechanism. If none of these parts are defective, consider replacing the control board.
Make sure the Washer is paused (press the Start/Pause button). During the spin cycle, this can take up to 3 minutes for the basket to stop spinning and allow you to open the lid. Unplug the Washer for a minute to reset the appliance.
Check the Pump and Filter
A washing machine making a clicking noise or a washing machine with a drain noise can be due to a blocked pump or filter. Clean the pump filter and try again.
If your washing machine won't start and just clicks, there may be debris in the washer drain. Check the drain to see if there's any debris (particularly large items, like coins) that may be stuck inside.