How to Open the Front Panel on a Kenmore Washing Machine

Kenmore washing machines are manufactured by Whirlpool and sold exclusively by Sears. In order to make repairs to several of the internal components on a Kenmore washer, you have to remove the front cabinet. In modern Kenmore washers, the front cabinet consists of the front and two sides of the appliance, as it is all one piece. Once you've removed the front you can access the pump, motor, transmission and water inlet valves.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips and flat head screwdrivers
• Putty knife

Instructions

1. Disconnect the washing machine from the electrical outlet. Shut off the hot and cold water supplies to the washer by closing the shut-off valves. The valves are typically located near your washing machine, but if you have an older house you may need to shut the water off at your main valve.

2. Rotate the control panel toward the back of the washing machine. Depending on your model, the control panel will either be held in place by screws or spring clips. If your model has screws, remove the plastic end caps with your fingers and use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws. If your model uses spring clips, slide a putty knife under each corner of the control panel and lift up on the knife to release the clips. Once the panel is free, rotate the panel toward the back of the appliance.

3. Use a flat head screwdriver to pop out the spring clips located along the back edge of the washing machine's top panel. Unplug the wiring harness running from the control panel to the washing machine.

4. Tilt the washing machine's main cabinet toward you about 45 degrees. Slide the cabinet toward you and then off to the side of the washer. Once the cabinet is out of the way you will have complete access to inner workings of the washing machine.

Tips & Warnings

• The main cabinet of the washing machine is very heavy, so you may want to have someone help you move it.

• Never disassemble your washing machine while it is still plugged in to the electrical outlet.

References

• Repair Clinic: Kenmore Washing Machine Disassembly