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HomeRepair HelpRCA Dryer RepairRCA Dryer controls don't work Repair
RCA Dryer controls don't work
If your RCA dryer controls are not working, start with the easy stuff: most often a cracked or stripped selector, timer, or control knob is simply slipping on the switch stem so the dial turns but the switch does not. A bad knob is the top culprit when you notice a dryer knob not working, dryer dial not working, or the control feels loose. If the entire display or timer is dead, inspect the power cord for breaks or blackened terminals next. If the start button is the only thing failing and you have already verified the door switch, test the thermal fuse with a multimeter for continuity—no continuity means the thermal fuse has blown and needs replacing. These checks cover the most likely causes in order, and they are within reach for a confident DIYer or a first-timer following step-by-step instructions. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to see the exact replacement part for your specific dryer and the correct knob, cord, or thermal fuse you need.
01 - RCA 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 - RCA 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 - RCA 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 - RCA 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 - RCA 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 - RCA 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 - RCA 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
My dryer controls not working, what should I check first?
Dryer knob spins but won't change the setting, is it the knob or the switch?
Dryer won't start, could the thermal fuse be the cause?
My dryer display or timer is dead, could a bad power cord be the issue?
How do I enter my model number on RepairClinic to find the right replacement part?