Troubleshooting washing machine timer

When loads of clothes have to be urgently washed, and your washer seems to be malfunctioning, you are definitely facing the enormous challenge. So, what can you do if your washing machine is stuck on one cycle. We suggest following our simple and efficient tips which will help you save your time and money.

Required Tools

Make sure you have all necessary tools to perform a quick and troubleshooting repair:

  • Hex head and torx wrenches
  • Nut drivers
  • Socket set and adjustable wrench
  • Screwdrivers
  • Hammer
  • Pliers
  • Spanner wrench
  • Multi-meter
pliers and screwdriver

What causes a washer timer to go bad?

One of the most obvious reasons why your washer is stuck on wash cycle is the defective washer timer. Usually the timer goes bad because its contacts have short-circuited. In such a case no repair is possible, the washer timer has to be replaced.

washer timer

Washer timer – what does it do

The main function of the washer timer is to control all cycles: washing, spinning and rinsing. If your washer doesn’t change cycles, the washer timer might be at fault.

Timer replacing steps

  • Before replacing the timer, unplug your washer and turn the water supply off.
  • Unscrew the control panel and tilt it back.
  • Using the nut driver, remove screws that fit the timer to the panel.
  • Carefully pull the washer timer out.
  • There you will find the wiring harness.
  • Slide the wiring harness clip off from the timer.
  • To be sure you are disconnecting the correct wires, please consult the wiring diagram of your washer.
  • Test the washer timer for its continuity. In case there is no continuity, replace the timer.

How to fix washer agitator

Other fixing tips

The washer issue can be caused by other factors either. Check the below mentioned parts to be checked.

Lid Switch

The lid switch is responsible for the power supply to the timer and the motor circuit. First of all, make sure the lid switch is activated, and its levers or actuators are not stuck/damaged. If the lid switch appears to be activated, but the timer circuit doesn’t receive the power, the switch is likely to be faulty. Unplug your washer, disconnect the wires from the switch and check it for continuity using the multimeter. Replace the lid switch, if there is no continuity.

lid switch

Timer & Timer Motor

The timer is operated by the cam assembly that in its turn is regulated by the timer motor. If the washing machine is sticking on wash cycle, we recommend you checking both the timer and the timer motor for their continuity using the multimeter. Before making the inspection of both parts, unplug your washer and consult the washer wiring diagram.

timer motor

Water Level Control

The water level control turns the water valve on and off according to the necessary levels and also transmits voltage to the timer motor. If the washing machine is filling water, but the timer is not functioning, the problem can be caused by a faulty water level control. Check the water level control for its continuity with the help of the multimeter. If it doesn’t have the voltage, you have to replace it. Before testing, disconnect your washer and consult the schematic diagram to make sure you are dealing with the correct wires.

water level switch testing

Timer Knob & Dial & Skirt

As soon as the timer knob or dial turns on, the timer starts advancing through the cycle. The timer knob that is attached to the timer shaft stimulates the start of the cycle by the activation of the switch inside the timer. With the lapse of time the timer knob can be cracked or worn out. It will fail to advance the timer shaft, and therefore, to stimulate the timer. Inspect the timer knob and replace it, if it appears to be defective.

washer cycles

Drain Pump

If you have noticed that your washer is stuck on the last wash and rinse portions of the cycle, it is more than likely that the drain pump is defective. The task of the drain pump is to remove water from the washer tub at the end of the cycle. In case the pump is malfunctioning, the washer won’t be able to identify that the tub is empty, and thus, to proceed to the next portion of the cycle. The displays of many electronic washers show the fault codes, so it can help you easily detect the source of the problem and fix it. Refer to your user manual to clarify what the particular fault code stands for.

washing-machine-drain-pump

Water Inlet Valve

The water inlet valve is responsible for the water supply while the washer is filling. The valve is activated by the electric solenoids. If the water inlet valve is faulty, the washing machine won’t change cycles. Make sure that the inlet hoses are not damaged, there aren’t any kinks, and the inlet screen are clean and clog-free. Afterwards, you are to test the solenoids for their voltage using the multimeter. If the voltage is absent, the valve needs to be replaced.

water inlet valve

Don’t worry, if the settlement of the problem on your own seems to be impossible. Apply to the professional technicians of Toronto repair service company Care&Repair. We will quickly make the correct diagnosis of the washer issue and find the most rational solution. Just give us a call or text us online, and your appliance will start functioning over again.

How We Work
  • 1
    Call Us
  • 2
    Get a Quote On-Site
  • 3
    Get Your Appliance Fixed
  • 4
    Visa | Cash | MasterCard
  • 5
    Enjoy Your Day


Book An Appointment 📞 (647) 812-2863


Extended Warranty