Kenmore Washer Lid Lock Flashing (15 Common Reasons)

If you own a Kenmore washing machine, one issue you might encounter is the lid lock light flashing.

Although this may seem like a minor glitch, it can be indicative of underlying issues that need your immediate attention.

This light serves as a warning signal, suggesting there might be 15 common reasons for its occurrence.

This article gives you a comprehensive insight into these reasons, helping you understand your washer’s needs better and ensuring efficient operation.

Kenmore Washer Lid Lock Flashing

1 . Misalignment of the lid

One common reason for your Kenmore washer lid lock flashing could be a misalignment of the lid.

This essentially means that the lid isn’t fitting into the washer’s frame as it should, hindering the locking mechanism from functioning correctly.

A telltale sign of this issue is if you notice your washer’s lid isn’t closing completely or appears to be skewed.

Fix

The solution to this problem is fairly straightforward. Begin by checking the hinges of the lid for any visible damages.

If they’re intact, ensure that the lid is correctly positioned and aligned with the washer frame.

Sometimes, simply readjusting the lid can solve the issue.

However, if the problem persists, it’s recommended to consult with a professional technician who can inspect and rectify any potential mechanical faults.

2 . Faulty lid lock mechanism

A faulty lid lock mechanism is another prevalent reason for the flashing light on your Kenmore washing machine.

Essentially, this implies that the components within the lock mechanism are either worn out or damaged, preventing the lid from securing in place as it should.

You might notice that the lid doesn’t lock at all, or it does, but the light keeps flashing.

Fix

To address this issue, you can attempt a power reset. Unplug your washing machine for a few minutes, then plug it back in.

This can sometimes reset the washer’s system and resolve minor glitches.

If the light continues to flash, it is likely an indication of a more serious issue with the lock mechanism.

In this case, replacing the lock mechanism may be necessary.

As this involves dealing with electrical components, it is highly recommended to enlist the help of a professional to ensure safety and reliability.

3 . Broken lid switch.

The flashing lid lock light on your Kenmore washer could also be due to a broken lid switch.

The lid switch is a safety feature that ensures the washer does not operate when the lid is open.

If this switch is broken, it could fail to recognize that the lid is closed, causing the light to flash.

Fix

You can check for this issue by manually pressing the switch when the lid is closed.

If the washer doesn’t respond, or the light continues to flash, the lid switch might be faulty. The solution to this issue involves replacing the lid switch.

This can be a complex task as it requires careful handling of the washer’s internal components.

It’s advisable to hire a professional technician who can safely replace the switch and ensure your washer is operating correctly.

4 . Defective control board

A defective control board is another possible cause for the lid lock light to flash on your Kenmore washer.

The control board is the brain of your washing machine, regulating all of its functions, including the lid lock mechanism.

If the control board fails or is damaged, it may not properly regulate the lid’s locking and unlocking, leading to the flashing light.

Fix

This issue is often accompanied by other malfunctioning signs such as unresponsiveness to commands or erratic behavior of the washer.

Addressing this issue involves replacing the faulty control board.

Due to the technicalities involved in this process, it’s highly recommended to hire a professional technician.

An expert can accurately diagnose the problem, source the correct replacement part, and safely install the new control board, ensuring your washer returns to peak operation.

5 . Damaged wiring

Damaged wiring in your Kenmore washer could also trigger the lid lock light to flash.

The wires in your washer connect the control board to the lid lock mechanism, and if these wires are loose, frayed, or broken, it might disrupt the signal between these components, causing the lid lock light to malfunction.

Fix

You can inspect for this issue by unplugging your washing machine and carefully observing the wiring.

Look out for any visible signs of wear and tear. If you spot any damaged wiring, the safest and most effective solution is to enlist the services of a professional technician.

They can replace the faulty wiring with utmost precision, ensuring all electrical components are correctly connected and your washer resumes normal functioning.

6 . Incorrect water temperature

The incorrect water temperature in your Kenmore washing machine might cause the lid lock light to flash.

Every wash cycle has an optimal temperature range, and if your washer is unable to regulate the water temperature correctly, it may disrupt the wash cycle and trigger the lid lock light to flash as a warning sign.

This can be due to a faulty temperature sensor or a malfunctioning water inlet valve.

Fix

To address this issue, start by checking the water temperature manually during a wash cycle.

If it’s too hot or too cold, consult a professional technician.

They can inspect the temperature sensor and the water inlet valve and, if necessary, replace these components to reinstate the proper functioning of your washer.

7 . Clogged drain pipe

A clogged drain pipe is yet another scenario that might lead to the lid lock light flashing on your Kenmore washing machine.

This problem arises when debris or foreign objects get lodged in the drain pipe, preventing the washer from draining water efficiently.

This inefficiency can interfere with the wash cycle, inducing the lid lock light to flash as a warning.

Fix

To check for a clogged drain pipe, examine the pipe for any visible obstructions.

If found, you can attempt to clear it using a long, flexible brush.

For stubborn clogs, or if the pipe is not easily accessible, professional help is recommended.

A skilled technician can perform a comprehensive cleaning of the drain system, ensuring optimal water flow and resolving the flashing light issue.

8 . Overloaded washer

Overloading the washer is a common issue that could cause the lid lock light to flash on your Kenmore washing machine.

When the washer is filled beyond its capacity, it can stress the motor, disrupt the balance during the spin cycle, and interfere with the lid lock mechanism, causing the light to blink.

Fix

To prevent this, always ensure to load your washer according to the manufacturer’s recommended weight limit.

Distribute clothes evenly to maintain balance during the wash cycle.

If the light continues to flash after adjusting the load, it may indicate a potential issue with the motor or balance sensors.

In such a case, it would be best to get a professional appliance technician involved, given the technical nature of these components.

9 . Unbalanced load

An unbalanced load in your Kenmore washing machine could potentially trigger the flashing of the lid lock light.

This typically occurs when the laundry within the drum is unevenly distributed, causing an imbalance during the spin cycle.

Such an imbalance can disrupt the washer’s normal operation and stimulate the lid lock light to blink as a cautionary signal.

Fix

To rectify this, pause the wash cycle and redistribute the clothes evenly within the drum before restarting the cycle.

If the issue persists, it could indicate a defect in the balance sensors or suspension system.

Due to the technical nature of these elements, it’s advisable to seek the assistance of a professional appliance technician.

They would be able to efficiently diagnose and rectify the problem, ensuring the smooth operation of your washing machine.

10 . Damaged motor coupling

A damaged motor coupling can be another reason why the lid lock light on your Kenmore washing machine is flashing.

The motor coupling serves as a critical link between the motor and the transmission, enabling the rotation of the drum.

Over time, or due to overloading, the motor coupling can wear out or break, disrupting the operational harmony of the machine and potentially causing the lid lock light to flash.

Fix

To address this, start by observing any unusual noises or vibrations from the washer.

If you suspect a faulty motor coupling, it’s best to engage a professional technician.

They can thoroughly inspect the motor coupling, and if required, replace it, restoring your washing machine to its optimal working condition.

11 . Faulty water level switch

A faulty water level switch could be yet another factor causing the lid lock light on your Kenmore washing machine to flash.

This switch regulates the amount of water in the drum, and if malfunctioning, it can lead to overfilling or underfilling, disrupting the wash cycle and resulting in the blinking of the lid lock light.

Fix

You may discern this issue through irregularities in the water level during a wash cycle.

If you suspect a faulty water level switch, it’s highly recommended to involve a professional technician.

They can perform a meticulous inspection and, if necessary, replace the faulty water level switch, restoring the balance of water in your washer and resolving the issue with the flashing lid lock light.

12 . Defective door seal

A defective door seal could certainly be the culprit behind the lid lock light flashing on your Kenmore washing machine.

If the door seal is worn out or damaged, it can prevent the door from closing properly, triggering the lid lock light to blink as a signal of an incomplete seal.

This also allows water to leak out during the wash cycle, disrupting the washer’s functionality.

Fix

To determine if this is the issue, inspect the door seal for any visible signs of wear or damage.

If the seal is indeed defective, it’s advisable to enlist the help of a professional technician.

They can efficiently replace the faulty door seal, ensuring a secure and watertight closure that restores the normal functioning of your washer while resolving the flashing light problem.

13 . Incorrect detergent used

Using the incorrect detergent in your Kenmore washing machine could lead to the lid lock light flashing.

Certain detergents produce excessive suds, which can interfere with the washing cycle and trigger the machine’s sensor, causing the lid lock light to blink as a warning.

It’s essential to use a detergent suitable for high-efficiency machines, as recommended by Kenmore.

Fix

If you’ve used the wrong detergent, run an empty wash cycle with the correct detergent to clear out the excessive suds.

If the issue persists, a professional technician’s expertise may be required to ensure the washing machine is functioning correctly.

14 . Power surge damage

Power surges can also trigger the lid lock light to flash on your Kenmore washing machine.

A power surge is a sudden spike in the electrical current flowing to your appliance, which can overload and potentially damage its electrical components.

When the lid lock mechanism or associated sensors are affected, it may result in the lid lock light blinking as a warning.

If you’ve recently experienced a power surge in your home, this could be the underlying issue.

Fix

To resolve this, unplug your washer for about a minute and then plug it back in.

This can sometimes reset the machine’s control board and cease the flashing light.

If the problem persists, it’s recommended to call a professional technician.

They can examine the electrical components of the machine, repair any damage caused by the power surge, and recommend surge protection measures for the future.

15 . Damaged transmission

A damaged transmission could be a less common, yet significant cause for the lid lock flashing light on your Kenmore washing machine.

The transmission plays a crucial role in controlling the spin and agitation cycles of your washer.

Fix

Over time or due to heavy usage, the transmission gears may wear out or break, disrupting the normal functioning of the washer and causing the lid lock light to blink as a warning.

Detecting a faulty transmission can be difficult as it often requires disassembling the machine.

Therefore, if your washer exhibits signs such as noisy operation, spinning issues, or the lid lock light persistently flashing despite trying other fixes, it’s advised to consult a professional technician.

They possess the necessary skills and tools to inspect the transmission, pinpoint the problem, and if required, replace the damaged part to restore your washer to its optimal performance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a flashing lid lock light on your Kenmore washing machine could be indicative of several issues, ranging from damaged motor coupling, faulty water level switch, defective door seal, use of incorrect detergent, and power surge damage, to a damaged transmission.

Each of these issues disrupts the smooth operation of your machine and requires specific troubleshooting.

It is crucial to examine and diagnose these potential problems carefully since an incorrect or insufficient fix could lead to further complications.

It’s highly recommended to enlist the services of a professional technician for accurate diagnosis and repair, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of your Kenmore washing machine.

FAQs

Why is the lid lock blinking on my washing machine?

The lid lock light on your washing machine could be blinking due to several reasons including issues with the machine’s components or the use of an incorrect detergent.

It’s a signal that your machine is encountering a problem that needs to be addressed.