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HomeRepair HelpKitchenAid Dryer RepairKitchenAid Dryer controls don't work Repair
KitchenAid Dryer controls don't work
If your dryer controls are not working or your dryer knob not working, the most common culprit is a worn or stripped control knob that simply slips on the switch or timer stem. Selector, timer, and general control knobs that are cracked or stripped need replacing so the stem can be engaged and the control will respond. If multiple displays or the whole timer is dead, check the power cord next for breaks, burned terminals, or loose connections that can prevent the dryer from turning on. If a single button, like the start button, is unresponsive after you confirm the door switch is OK, a blown thermal fuse is a likely cause and can be checked with a multimeter for continuity. These issues are the usual reasons a dryer controls not responding complaint shows up. You can enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement knob, power cord, thermal fuse, or other parts that fit your specific dryer and get step by step parts and repair guidance.
01 - KitchenAid 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.
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Highly Likely
02 - KitchenAid 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.
Highly Likely
03 - KitchenAid 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
04 - KitchenAid 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
05 - KitchenAid 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
06 - KitchenAid Dryer Timer
If the whole dryer display or timer is not working, it's likely the timer itself is defective. However, this is not that common of a problem. Before replacing the timer, check all the more commonly defective parts. If you determine that all of the other components are working properly, test the timer by using a multimeter and consulting the wiring diagram. If the timer is defective, replace it.
Common
07 - KitchenAid 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
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my dryer knob not working or slipping on the stem?
Dryer start button not working — what should I check first?
My dryer display or timer is dead, could the power cord be the cause?
How do I test the dryer thermal fuse with a multimeter?
How do I enter my model number to find the right replacement part?