How to Replace a Washer Timer

Washing machine timer control

Modern washing machines, for all of their fancy gizmos and color schemes, are just not as well-built as the ones our parents used to use. These days, washing machines are built to be dispensable appliances with plastic parts that easily wear down after heavy use. However, in a tough economy, simply replacing a washer is easier said than done. Therefore, knowing how to fix your own washer can save you a bundle of money while prolonging the life of your investment. And one of the easiest components to fix is also the one that most commonly breaks--the timer. If your washing machine isn't functioning properly--for example, it's staying on the agitation cycle too long--then replacing the timer is usually the fix.

Things You'll Need

• New washer timer
• Screwdrivers
• Needle-nose pliers

Instructions

1. Unplug the washer's power cord from the outlet. This is important because in order to gain access to the timer, you will have to open up the control panel.

2. Pull the knob on the timer control so that it clicks out into the "on" position. Directly behind the knob is a thin plastic clip that secures the knob to the timer shaft. Use needle-nose pliers to pull out the clip. After removing the clip, the knob will slide right off the shaft.

3. Remove the indicator ring that sits behind the timer knob. This is called the "skirt" and it features all of the wash and rinse cycles. You should be able to just pop off the skirt with your fingers.

4. Pull the washing machine away from the wall so that you can access the screws on the backside that hold the control panel cover in place. There will usually be three or four screws along the top backside of the control panel. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws and set them in a safe location.

5. Carefully pull or "fold" the control panel cover down, and, depending on your model, you will usually have to move it left or right to unseat it completely. Rest the cover face-down on top of the washer, allowing you access to the timer.

6. Unclip the wiring harness that's connected to the timer. The washer timer assembly is typically located to the right and it's usually the largest component in the control compartment.

7. Remove any screws securing the timer to the control panel cover. Depending on the model of your washer, you can release the timer by sliding it toward you or twisting it. Look closely at how it is held in place before trying to unseat it so you don't crack any plastic clips or holders.

8. Install the new timer by reversing the process of removing the original one. Snap it in place and install the screws that secure it to the cover. Then connect the wiring harness to the new timer.

9. Lift the control panel cover and set its bottom back into the hinges and slide it back into place. Fold the cover back into position and install the three or four screws that hold the cover in place.

10. Install the skirt back onto the front of the control panel.

11. Pull the timer shaft out with your fingers and slide the timer knob on it. Use the needle-nose pliers to slide the plastic holding clip over the backside of the knob to secure it in place on the shaft. Push the timer knob back in so the machine will be in the "off" mode.

12. Plug in the washing machine and test out your repair by washing a load of clothes.