When your Whirlpool washer lid starts clicking, it’s not just annoying. It also makes you wonder where the clicking sound comes from in the first place.
The Whirlpool washer lid lock clicking repeatedly may be because of a defective door lock motor, a damaged door latch, an object stuck in the drain system or a broken door strike. The main control board or the lid lock assembly may also be faulty. You also need to check if the lid latch is dirty.
The rest of this article will expand on the reasons why your Whirlpool washer lid lock keeps clicking and how to fix any related issues.
Why Your Whirlpool Washer Lid Lock Is Clicking
There are a few possible causes of your Whirlpool washer lid lock clicking. All of them must be resolved ASAP because if your lid lock is clicking and not engaging, your washer won’t work at all.
Faulty Lid Lock Motor
The lid lock secures the Whirlpool washer’s door while it’s running. If it’s clicking, the problem may be mechanical or electrical. Either way, you’ll need to check the lid lock for signs of one or both of these problems to adequately address the issue.
If the lid lock isn’t latching, the problem is mechanical, and you may need to replace the lock.
If it latches but keeps unlocking, you probably have an electrical fault. In this case, you need to use a multimeter to test for continuity on each lock switch.
The KAIWEETS Digital Multimeter (available on Amazon.com) is a multi-functional tester for various applications, including voltage, temperature, wire on-off, and continuity. It’s user-friendly, and the LED lights make it easier for you to interpret the readings. Other features include a low-battery prompt, auto power-off, and data retention.
If any of the locks don’t have continuity, you’ll need to replace its corresponding switch.
A Dirty Lid Latch or Switch
Over time, the lid latch or switch can collect dirt. If this dirt is left to accumulate, the latch may not engage and fail to signal the washer to begin the cycle.
To clean a dirty lid latch or switch:
Get a cotton swab.
Dip the cotton swab in isopropyl rubbing alcohol.
Clean all contact areas around the lid and washer.
Repeat the process until the lock is free of debris and dirt.
Broken Door Strike
The door strike helps to keep the washer’s lid closed. When the door strike works properly, it comes into contact with the lock switch, which then locks the lid and signals for the wash cycle to begin. If the door strike is broken, the door won’t latch and cause a clicking sound.
The strike can become misaligned due to wear and tear. It can also crack or break if the lid is slammed down repeatedly. If the issue is left unaddressed, a defective door strike can end up permanently locking your washer.
Fortunately, you can reposition a misaligned door strike. If it’s broken or cracked, however, you’ll need to replace it.
This YouTube video shows how to open the lid and check the strike for signs of damage.
Defective Control Board
Although this is a rare issue, a defective control board can cause a clicking sound when you close the lid of your Whirlpool washer. Changing the main control board should be your last resort, and should be done with the help of a professional (preferably an expert on Whirlpool washers).
How To Reset the Lid Lock of Your Whirlpool Washer
Sometimes a reset may be all you need to get the lid lock of your washer working again. This is also the best way to determine if another issue is causing the clicking sound. Should the reset fail, you’ll need to check for other possible faults.
You can reset the lid lock in two ways:
Unplug the washer for 10 minutes. Afterward, plug it back in.
Press and hold the end cycle button for at least 20 seconds. This can reset the lid lock light and the washer.
You can also run a diagnostic test as follows:
Put the washer on standby mode. You can do this by plugging the washer in with all the indicators turned off. Alternatively, you can select the clothes clean or done button.
Avoid using the power, start or stop buttons.
Press and hold the button you have chosen for 3 seconds.
Release the button for 3 seconds.
Press and hold again for 3 seconds before releasing it.
Repeat the press and release process one more time.
When done correctly, the indicators on the console will light for 5 seconds. Number 88 will show in the estimated time slot. The other two digits displayed indicate that you entered the diagnostic mode correctly.
Then, verify the error code to confirm which specific issue you’re experiencing. For example, LdL means the lid is not locking, while LdU means the lid cannot unlock.
How To Bypass Lid Lock in a Whirlpool Washer
The lid switch in the Whirlpool washing machine allows it to run with the top down. If there’s a problem and the lid fails to lock, the washer won’t run.
If you can’t unlock your Whirlpool washer’s lid lock, you can choose to bypass the lid lock instead.
Here’s how to bypass your Whirlpool washer’s lid lock:
Turn off and unplug the washer.
Use a screwdriver to unfasten the screws. Lift and remove the top panel.
Find the lock switch and place a magnet between the lid lock and solenoid in the washer.
Put the lid back and plug the washer into the electrical outlet.
Turn on the washer with the top up.
If it keeps running, you have successfully bypassed the lid lock. If the washer goes off, the magnet may have moved, so you need to reposition it.
Conclusion
Whirlpool washer issues like a clicking lid lock are usually easy to fix without the help of a technician. However, if you’re not confident about checking what exactly is going on, you should get a professional to fix your washer instead.
