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HomeRepair HelpDryer RepairDryer controls don't work Repair
Dryer controls don't work
If your dryer controls are not working, the most common problem is a worn or stripped knob that no longer engages the selector, timer, or control stem—selector knobs, timer knobs, and control knobs are listed as the top likely causes because they simply slip instead of turning the switch. If the whole display or timer is dead, check the power cord next for broken insulation, exposed wires, or blackened terminals that indicate a bad connection. If the start button is the only thing that fails and the door switch is fine, the thermal fuse is a common next suspect; use a multimeter to check it for continuity. For a quick diagnosis, pull off the offending knob to see if it spins freely on the stem, inspect the power cord at the back of the machine, and test the fuse if you have a meter. Whether you need a replacement dryer knob, power cord, or thermal fuse, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part that fits your dryer.
01 - Dryer Selector Knob
A dryer selector knob needs to be able to engage and rotate the selector switch stem for that control to work. If the knob is cracked or stripped out and just slips on the stem a new knob will need to be installed to properly engage the switch.
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Highly Likely
02 - Dryer Timer Knob
The dryer's timer knob needs to be able to engage and rotate the timer stem for the control to work. If the knob is cracked or stripped out and just slips on the stem a new knob will need to be installed to properly engage the control.
Highly Likely
03 - Dryer Control Knob
A dryer control knob needs to be able to engage and rotate the switch stem for that control to work. If the knob is cracked or stripped out and just slips on the stem a new knob will need to be installed to properly engage the switch.
Highly Likely
04 - Dryer Power Cord
If the whole dryer display or timer is not working, the dryer's power cord could the source of the problem. Inspect the cord for any breaks or burn marks near the terminals. If the terminals appear blackened or wires are exposed through the cord's insulation, you should replace the power cord with a new one.
Highly Likely
05 - Dryer Knob
A dryer control knob needs to be able to engage and rotate the switch stem for that control to work. If the knob is cracked or stripped out and just slips on the stem a new knob will need to be installed to properly engage the switch.
Highly Likely
06 - Dryer Thermal Fuse
If just the start button is malfunctioning and you've confirmed the door switch is working properly, then it's possible the thermal fuse has blown. You can use a multimeter to test the fuse for electrical continuity. If the thermal fuse has no continuity, you'll know it has blown and will need to be replaced.
Common
07 - Dryer Control Board
If the whole dryer display or timer is not working, it's likely the control board is defective. However, this is not that common of a problem. Before replacing the board, check all of the more commonly defective parts. If you have determined that all of the other components are working properly, replace the control board. (The control board cannot be easily tested, but you can try to inspect it for signs of burning or a shorted-out component.)
Common
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won't my dryer controls respond when I turn the knob?
The start button won't work. What should I check first?
The whole display or timer is dead, could the power cord be the problem?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic to find the right replacement?
The knob spins but changing settings does nothing. Is the knob the only thing that can fail?