ApplianceErrors.com

Washer Won't Start or Turn On: Causes and Fixes

A washer that won't start is usually a power, door-lock, or control issue. Confirm the outlet has power, the door/lid is fully latched (machines won't start until the lock confirms), and that Control Lock or a delay-start timer isn't engaged. A 60-second power cycle clears many soft control faults.

What to Check First

1
Confirm power: test the outlet, check the breaker, and avoid extension cords (washers need a dedicated circuit).
2
Fully close the door/lid until the lock clicks — most washers won't start with the lock unconfirmed.
3
Check for Control Lock / Child Lock — hold the labeled button 3 seconds to toggle it off.
4
Cancel any Delay Start that may be counting down.
5
Power-cycle: unplug for 60 seconds to clear soft control faults before suspecting the board.

Error Codes for This Problem, by Brand

If your washing machine is showing an error code along with this symptom, find your brand below — each code links to its full fix guide.

Whirlpool Washing Machine

Door lock failure — latch cannot engage

⚠ Medium Severity

Main control board failure

⚠ High Severity

Keypad disconnected or key panel failure

⚠ Medium Severity

Communication failure between main control board and motor control board

⚠ Medium Severity

Control lock active — all buttons disabled

✓ Low Severity

Door switch failure — lid/door switch not actuating

⚠ Medium Severity

Door lock not engaging — lock timeout

⚠ Medium Severity

Motor control board failure

⚠ High Severity

Cycle fault — control detects a mismatch or stuck cycle state

⚠ Medium Severity

Samsung Washing Machine

Door not properly closed or door lock failure

⚠ Medium Severity

Button error — key stuck or shorted

✓ Low Severity

Low voltage detected — power supply problem

⚠ High Severity

Door lock failure — cannot complete lock engagement

⚠ Medium Severity

Specific button on control panel shorted

✓ Low Severity

Door cannot close — door detected open or unlatched during operation

⚠ Medium Severity

LG Washing Machine

Door open or door lock failure

⚠ Medium Severity

EEPROM error — control board memory failure

⚠ Medium Severity

Button error — control panel key stuck

✓ Low Severity

Child lock active — controls are locked, not an error

✓ Low Severity

Power failure — the cycle was interrupted by a loss of power

✓ Low Severity

GE Appliances Washing Machine

Heater relay failure on main control board

⚠ High Severity

Door lock failure

⚠ Medium Severity

Frigidaire Washing Machine

Door open — lid or door not properly closed

⚠ Medium Severity

Door lock control board failure

⚠ Medium Severity

Speed Queen Washing Machine

Lid switch fault (top-load models)

⚠ Medium Severity

Communication error — control board fault

⚠ Medium Severity

Bosch Washing Machine

Door lock failure — cannot lock door for cycle

⚠ Medium Severity

KitchenAid Washing Machine

Door lock failure

⚠ Medium Severity

Maytag Washing Machine

Main electronic control board failure

⚠ High Severity

Electrolux Washing Machine

Door not closed or door lock failure

⚠ Medium Severity

Fisher & Paykel Washing Machine

Lid switch fault — lid not detected as closed (top-load models)

⚠ Medium Severity

Haier Washing Machine

Door not closed or door lock failure

⚠ Medium Severity

Kenmore Washing Machine

Primary control board fault — board failed self-check

⚠ High Severity

Frequently Asked Questions

Why won't my washer turn on at all? +

No lights at all points to power: dead outlet, tripped breaker, or a failed line filter/control board. Lights but no start usually means the door lock isn't confirming or Control Lock is on.

← All Symptoms All Washing Machine Error Codes →