This advice is for Kenmore Elite and Whirlpool Duet model front loading washers. If you experience a problem where the door becomes jammed and will not unlock or open, here's an easy way to gain access inside your washer
WITHOUT calling the repairman.
1. Remove the lower panel under the door by loosening the three screws under the bottom edge on the front of the washer. HINT: If you prop up the front feet of the washer with some small blocks of wood, this will make access to the screws much easier.
2. With the screws removed, the lower panel should drop down then come off. If the panel sticks, a light tap on either side will knock it loose.
3. Reach your hand up inside the washer behind the front casing on the right-hand side. This is where the door latch assembly is located.
4. At the bottom of the door latch assembly is a small pull tab. This is the manual release for the door. Pull the tab straight down and the door will come open.
Sometimes these doors will not unlock for whatever reason. If there are no error codes being generated, this could have just been a momentary glitch. If you see "
Fdl" or "
Fdu" error codes, these are usually indications of a failed door latch assembly and will require replacement.
You can click on the following link if you need step-by-step instructions on how to replace the door latch:
http://www.fixya.com/support/r587965-door_latch_replacement_fdl_error
I hope this information is helpful. If you need assistance or have further questions please click on my link below and use the "Ask Me" feature for a quicker response.
http://www.fixya.com/users/jsrock516
Thank you for your clear instructions! I was able to replace my door latch in less than 30 minutes, and the part was about $50. Sears wanted to charge me over $220 to do the same job! Anyone can do this, thanks so much for your help!!
Kenmore elite door will not latch
Door will not close or latch.
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