GE Washer Keeps Locking And Unlocking (Fixed!)

Dealing with appliance malfunctions can be a real headache, especially when you’re unsure of the cause. Does your General Electric washing machine keep locking and unlocking?

Whether you have a top-load or front-load GE washer, read on for detailed troubleshooting steps and solutions to bring your washer back to its optimal working condition.

How To Fix A GE Washer That Keeps Locking And Unlocking?

If your GE washer lid or door keeps clicking, try these steps:

• Unplug the washer for 5 minutes and plug it back in.
• Manually rotate the drum, blow air into the lock, and slam the lid/door (repeat if needed).
• Perform a diagnostic test, to figure out if the problem is the control board or lock.
• Check for any loose wires or fuses on the lock assembly.
• If all else fails, consider replacing the lid or door lock assembly.

Let’s get into some detail on how to do this below!

Simple Reset

Before diving into more complex troubleshooting, it’s always a good idea to attempt a simple reset:

1. Unplug the washing machine from the power outlet.
2. Wait for about 5 minutes.
3. Plug it back in and check for improvements.

Manual Spin And Slam

Another reason the GE washer keeps clicking and won’t lock might be due to a weight distribution error. If that’s the case, there’s a simple, short-term solution that helped me fix the problem.

I refer to it as the ‘spin and slam’ method. Here’s how it works:

1. Rotate the washer drum quickly by hand.
2. Blow air into the lock mechanism.
3. Slam the washing machine lid or door closed.
4. If the clicking of it unlocking and locking persists, repeat steps 1-3.

This is only a temporary fix. If you’re seeking a longer-term solution or if this doesn’t work after several attempts, please continue reading.

Perform A Diagnostic Test On Your GE Dishwasher

The lid lock has two primary roles: detecting if the lid is open or closed and securing the lid. Through a diagnostic test, you can identify if the issue is with the control board or the lid lock.

Entering Test Mode

Ensure the washing machine is plugged in and the lid is closed.

Entering Test Mode Hold down the start button. While still holding the start button, turn the selector knob 7 clicks clockwise (to the right).

Release the start button. After a brief moment, all lights on the machine should begin flashing, indicating that it’s now in test mode.

Lid Lock Test

Turn the selector knob 13 clicks clockwise. At this point, the machine will test the lid lock.

If the test is functioning correctly, the rinse light will illuminate when the lid is closed and the spin light will illuminate when the lid is open.

Interpreting The Results And Exiting Test Mode

If the lights correspond correctly to the lid’s position (open or closed), it indicates that the washing machine can accurately detect the lid’s status.

In this case, The issue isn’t likely with the control board, it’s probably with the lock assembly.

Typically, turning the washing machine off or unplugging it should exit test mode. However, always refer to your user manual for model-specific instructions.

The Fuse Or Wire On The Lock Is Loose

Before replacing anything, check the wiring to the lock assembly. Sometimes a wire or fuse can become loose, resulting in the door/lid lock malfunctioning.

You can figure out how to do this by watching one of the videos in the section below about replacing the lid/door lock. Follow the video to compare with your washer and ensure all the wires are still connected.

Replace The Lid Lock Assembly

If you’ve tried all the solutions above and the door lock still doesn’t work properly, it’s time to replace the door lock.

It’s worth to mention that a faulty door lock can not only cause your washer to continuously lock and unlock, it can even make it pause mid-cycle aswell.

Replacing the lock is simple to do, whether you have a GE washer with a lid or a door.

For GE washers with a lid, you’ll need part #WH01X27954. You can purchase this part on Amazon. Before buying it, ensure that your washing machine model is on the list of compatible models provided in the Amazon listing.

Here is a video explaining how to replace the lock assembly on a GE washer with a lid:

If you have a GE dishwasher with a door, you’ll need a different lock assembly. The part number suitable for most GE washers with a door is #WH10X10006. This part can also be found on Amazon.

Here’s a video demonstrating how to replace the lock on GE washing machines with a door instead of a lid:

Conclusion

Navigating the quirks of your General Electric washing machine doesn’t have to be daunting.

From simple resets to more intricate diagnostic tests, the steps provided offer a range of solutions to tackle the persistent locking and unlocking issue.

While temporary fixes might help in a pinch, it’s always advisable to address the root cause for long-term peace of mind.

Thanks for reading!