Whirlpool Washer Lid Lock Clicking- Why & How To Fix?

No wonder Whirlpool washer lid lock clicking can be a frustrating experience, causing you concern. The troublesome issue not only disrupts your laundry routine but leaves you curious about why it’s happening or at least how to fix it.

Well, when the Whirlpool washer lid lock is clicking, then the problem is the faulty or broken components of the door lock mechanism. For instance door lock, lid switch, or door strike. But if none of these parts are defective, the issue is likely for the faulty main control board.

However, to get the whole grip on the matter, it’s essential to diagnose each component and pinpoint the exact reason for an effective repair. So, read on to delve into the details.

What Causes Lid Lock Clicking On Whirlpool Washer?

When the lid lock has a clicking sound in the Whirlpool washer, it can be caused by several reasons related to the door lock. However, let’s go through all the probable reasons and their recommended fixes to have a quick review.

Probable Reasons	Recommended Fix
Dirty lock mechanism	Clean up the door lock mechanism
Defective door lock assembly	Inspect and replace if broken
Faulty door lock motor and switch	Inspect and replace if broken
Broken door lock and door strike	Inspect and replace if broken
Malfunctioning main control board	If defective, replace it

Troubleshooting And Fix For Whirlpool Washer Lid Lock Clicking

Generally, the Whirlpool washer makes a clicking and clacking sound only when it starts the cycle. The sound is normal and most of it is like the sound of the lid locking.

[You can watch the Whirlpool assistance for you to have the details on the lid lock locking, and how it sounds as well.]

But if that’s not the case, then the issue can be troublesome. No worry as we’re going to discuss it in detail here.

1. A Dirty Lid Lock Mechanism

Over time the lid lock mechanism of the Whirlpool washer can collect dirt and accumulate. When that happens, the latch of the lid will struggle to engage properly. Moreover, it’ll not send a signal to the washer to begin the cycle.

However, here is how you can clean the dirty lid lock mechanism.

• First, inspect for any visible debris or objects trapped on the lid lock that can hinder the operation. Remove them.
• Get a cotton swab and soak it in the isopropyl rubbing alcohol. Now clean all the contacts and around the area of the lid of the washer with it. See whether it works or not.

2. Defective Door Lock

Failure of the lid lock mechanism is the most common reason for the Whirlpool washer clicking. During operation, the lid lock secures the lid shut. Once the lid of the washer is secured properly, only then the washer will start operating.

If the lid lock assembly of the washer becomes damaged or broken, it will not lock the door properly. The computer won’t allow the washer to do anything without just a clicking sound.

Inspect the lid lock and if it is damaged or can’t latch properly. Replace it with a new one. Here is how.

• Step 1: Unplug the washer and tape-secure the lid. Unscrew the upper access panel and pull it off.
• Step 2: Now remove the faulty lid lock of the washer disconnecting the wiring loom from the retaining clips.
• Step 3: Install the new lid lock by positioning it. Attach the wiring loom underneath the retaining clips. Put back everything in reverse order.

As for the replacement, it will cost you about $42.71- $55.1.

3. Faulty Door Lock Motor and Switch Assembly

When the Whirlpool washer lid lock is clicking, it is another possible faulty component of the lid lock mechanism.

The lid lock of the Whirlpool washer not only fails mechanically but also electrically. A lid switch of the washer is the safety mechanism that prevents the washer from spinning or agitating when the lid is raised.

In your case, if the lid of the washer latches but keeps unlocking, then it is probably an electrical fault.

• So, to determine whether the lid lock has failed electrically, check for the continuity with a multimeter.
• If any of the switches of the Whirlpool washer lid lock have no continuity, then consider replacing them.

The estimated cost for the replacement of the Whirlpool lid switch is about $31.86 for the parts.

4. Broken Door Latch and Door Strike

Coming next, the door latch and door strike of the Whirlpool washer can also be damaged causing the issue. These are the parts that keep the washer lid closed. When they are broken, the lid of the washer won’t latch resulting in a clicking sound. 

So, inspect these parts of the door lock mechanism for damage. If the strike is misaligned, you can reposition it. But once the door strike of the washer is broken you have to replace it, as it is not repairable. 

As for the replacement parts of the Whirlpool door lock mechanism, it can cost you about $32.63 for the door strike and $131.28 for the door latch replacement. 

5. Malfunctioning Main Control Board

If you find out that there is no issue with the door lock mechanism of the Whirlpool washer, then it is likely that the main control board may have gone bad. But keep in mind that’s not the common case, it’s rare.

That’s why before deciding to replace the main control board, check all the components of the lid lock mechanism. If that does not work, consider replacing the main control board.

The main control board replacement of the Whirlpool washer can cost you about $306.95.

Tips For Preventing Future Lid Lock Clicking Issues In Whirlpool Washers

Here are some effective tips for preventing the lid lock issues of the Whirlpool washer in the future by following through. 

• Clean the door and lid seals of the washer properly once a month to maintain its performance. 
• Periodically inspect for damage to the lid lock mechanism of the Whirlpool washer. If you find any, replace them. 
• Be gentle to the lid lock of the washer as excessive force can damage the components of the washer. 
• Keep the lid lock dry and follow the regular schedule of maintenance. 
• Seek professional help if any problem persists.

FAQs

In this subsection, we have covered the most frequently asked queries of the users. It will assist you in finding quick solutions to the common concerns related to the Whirlpool washer.

Final Words

Well at last let’s hope you get that all about addressing the Whirlpool washer lid lock clicking problem under discussion. Whenever that happens, have a thorough inspection of whether it needs a simple cleaning or replacement and do so accordingly.

However, to remain unbothered and to go on with the smooth laundry routine follow up the schedule maintenance. If any further assistance is needed, check for Whirlpool Product Help or contact Whirlpool Customer Service. That’s all!