Kenmore Washer Lid Lock Bypass (Step-by-Step Guide)

Kenmore washer lid lock bypass

The lid lock switch has a lot of advantages for users until it begins to malfunction and you simply can proceed to washing your clothes without its functioning.

In case you want to know how kenmore washer lid lock bypass really works, you are definitely at the right place to get the information you need.

The lid switch is just like a safety precaution that tells your washer to work or stop working wherever the lid is closed or open.

It is specifically a safety feature that prevents dangers by ensuring the lid is closed during a cycle or operation.

You should obviously go past the lid lock switch at your own risk, I’ll be highlighting the safety precautions to take while carrying out the process of bypassing the lid lock below.

Let’s dive into it!

How To Bypass Lid Lock Switch On Kenmore Washer

Going past the lid switch is possible only if you can take apart your washing machine without the fear of voiding the warranty.

Voiding the warranty shouldn’t be an issue if you have been using the appliance for a long time. The items you would need in order to do this includes an electrical tape, a screwdriver and most importantly a thick wire that has been stripped at both ends.

Here are the step-by-step guidelines on how to bypass the lid switch on kenmore washer if it doesn’t clean clothes or is stuck.

  • Disconnect the washer from the wall outlet.
  • Remove the top/head of the washer.
  • Find the wire harness that is connected to the lid lock switch.
  • Detach it and insert a wire open at both ends to the outside terminals of the lid switch.
  • Secure the wire with an electrical tape and reattach the top of the washer.

#1. Unplug the washing machine from the wall outlet

bypass kenmore washer lid switch

The first procedure to put in place is to disconnect the washing machine from its power source or unplug it from the wall outlet.

It is an important step if you want to avoid electric shock or other significant damages.

#2. Figure Out How To Get The Top Of The Washer Off

Detaching kenmore panel

If you are just detaching your kenmore washing machine for the first, you might not know how to remove the control board.

Take off the screws with a screwdriver.

Some models of kenmore washer have screws attached behind the appliance. 

First of all remove the two plastic pieces on the opposite end side of the washer. 

After removing these two plastic pieces, there are still some screws that need to be removed. Make sure you remove them all in order to safely detach the head part of the appliance.

#3. Flip up the top of the washer.

Flipping the top of the washer

The next procedure is to flip open the top of the washer, you should be able to do this easily if you’ve removed all the screws on top.

Now, you should have eyes on the control panel of your appliance, which is a flat board secured to the head of the washing machine.

#4. Locate The Wire Harness That Connects To The Lid Switch.

Just at the right hand side of the appliance, you will notice a couple of connection wires directed to a small hole on the surface.

Detach the lid switch from the secured part and follow the next step.

#5. Connect A Piece Of Open Wire To The Outside Terminals Of The Lid Lock Switch.

Attaching a wire to lid switch

Make sure the insulation on both ends have been stripped with the use of a plier.

Now, push the wire directly into the both ends on the switch so that it makes a U shape just like the image depicts above.

Use an electrical tape to hold everything in place so that it doesn’t pull off while the washing machine is working.

Finally, the lid lock switch will be bypassed and your washer will start to work perfectly again.

Kenmore tappedwire

See also: 7 ways to fix a smoking washing machine

How To Bypass Lid Lock On Kenmore Washer series 500?

Regardless of the model of kenmore washer you are currently using, it all has a similar way to get kenmore series 500 washer lid lock bypass carried out.

You just need to have a couple of tools such as a screwdriver to take out the screws and the top of the washer, a tape, and a short wire.

Additionally, for kenmore series 100 washer lid lock bypass, you need to follow the exact same procedure highlighted above.

Safety Precautions To Before & After Bypassing Kenmore Washer Lid Switch

The advantage of bypassing the lid lock switch is that it allows your washing machine to work perfectly without having to close the lid.

If the lid lock is malfunctioning, your kenmore washer might not function because the lid lock switch which is supposed to authorize it when the lid is closed is faulty.

There are some safety precautions to take note of after bypassing the lid lock which is very important. 

  1. Make sure not to have the lid open when the washing machine is spinning.
  2. Turn the machine off before bypassing the lid lock. You should have done this earlier.
  3. Do not bypass the lid lock unless the lid switch isn’t functioning properly.
  4. Wait for a new lid lock or switch instead.
  5. Keep out of the reach of children.

Make Sure Not To Have The Lid Open

Always keep the lid of the washer closed always, there’s no pleasure in directly watching your clothes get washed.

It is safer to leave it locked rather than opening it while an operation is ongoing.

Do Not Bypass The Lid Lock Unless The Lid Switch Is Faulty.

Don’t be too quick to go around the lid lock when it’s still fully responding and functioning very well unless you are very sure that it’s damaged.

Instead you can wait for a replacement to arrive but most people tend to bypass due to the urgency to get their laundry done.

Keep Out Of Reach Of Children

You realize you are now vulnerable to injuries with the damaged lid lock which you just bypassed.

Little kids might accidentally get into your laundry room and dip their hands inside an operating washer. You know what would happen if this occurs right?

Definitely, you don’t want a situation like this to happen. That’s why you need to make sure your washer is kept out of the reach of children.

Even grown ups are likely to get injured with a washer that doesn’t stop operating when the lid is opened.

Final Thoughts…

I hope I’ve shown you how easy it is to bypass the lid lock of your washing machine without paying a dime to anyone.

Hopefully, the safety precautions highlighted also might educate you on the measures to take in order to be safe.

We have more troubleshooting guides you might be interested in on some other pages, you’d really find solutions here.

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