Unlock the Right Part
for Your Repair
Find the exact part you need
Enter your model number to see parts that fit your machine.
Price Match Guarantee
In-stock parts ship the same day
365-Day Return Policy
Price Match GuaranteeChoose Product
Identify Problem
03
Find Solutions
HomeRepair HelpWhirlpool Dryer RepairWhirlpool Dryer controls don't work Repair
Whirlpool Dryer controls don't work
If your Whirlpool dryer controls are unresponsive, the usual culprit is a worn or stripped control knob that no longer engages the switch stem — selector, timer, or control knobs can crack or slip and simply need replacing so the switch can turn. After the knobs, inspect the power cord next: a broken or burned cord or blackened terminals can kill the whole display or timer and make the dryer controls not respond. If the start button alone fails, or the dryer won’t start even with good knobs and power, check the thermal fuse for continuity with a multimeter and confirm the door switch is working; a blown thermal fuse will prevent the dryer from accepting commands. These problems are straightforward to fix once you identify the bad part, and RepairClinic carries the right replacement parts and step-by-step guides. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement knob, power cord, or thermal fuse that fits your dryer and get the repair back on track.
01 - Whirlpool Dryer Selector Knob
A dryer selector knob needs to be able to engage and rotate the selector switch stem for that control to work. If the knob is cracked or stripped out and just slips on the stem a new knob will need to be installed to properly engage the switch.
Enter model number to search for the required part specific to your product
Highly Likely
02 - Whirlpool Dryer Timer Knob
The dryer's timer knob needs to be able to engage and rotate the timer stem for the control to work. If the knob is cracked or stripped out and just slips on the stem a new knob will need to be installed to properly engage the control.
Highly Likely
03 - Whirlpool Dryer Control Knob
A dryer control knob needs to be able to engage and rotate the switch stem for that control to work. If the knob is cracked or stripped out and just slips on the stem a new knob will need to be installed to properly engage the switch.
Highly Likely
04 - Whirlpool Dryer Power Cord
If the whole dryer display or timer is not working, the dryer's power cord could the source of the problem. Inspect the cord for any breaks or burn marks near the terminals. If the terminals appear blackened or wires are exposed through the cord's insulation, you should replace the power cord with a new one.
Highly Likely
05 - Whirlpool Dryer Knob
A dryer control knob needs to be able to engage and rotate the switch stem for that control to work. If the knob is cracked or stripped out and just slips on the stem a new knob will need to be installed to properly engage the switch.
Highly Likely
06 - Whirlpool Dryer Thermal Fuse
If just the start button is malfunctioning and you've confirmed the door switch is working properly, then it's possible the thermal fuse has blown. You can use a multimeter to test the fuse for electrical continuity. If the thermal fuse has no continuity, you'll know it has blown and will need to be replaced.
Common
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my dryer controls not working when I turn the knob?
My dryer won't start or the start button doesn't work — could the thermal fuse be the issue?
The whole display or timer is dead — could it be the power cord or something else?
How do I find the right replacement knob or part for my dryer on RepairClinic.com?
The knob engages but the dryer still does nothing — could the timer or selector switch be bad?
Shop by Whirlpool Dryer Parts
Shop by Popular Whirlpool Dryer Models
Our Story
Family-owned and operated since 1912, Burke America Parts Group is the longest-running genuine appliance, HVAC, and outdoor power equipment parts solution in North America. At Repair Clinic, we're proud to be an international brand trusted by the pros as well as the DIY community.
About Repair Clinic
© 2026 RepairClinic.com