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HomeRepair HelpKenmore Dryer RepairKenmore Dryer controls don't work Repair
Kenmore Dryer controls don't work
If your dryer controls are not working, the usual culprits are simple mechanical failures first: cracked or stripped selector, timer, or control knobs that slip on the switch stems and fail to engage the controls. Next check the power cord and its terminals for breaks or burn marks if the entire display or timer is dead. If the start button is the only thing misbehaving and the door switch tests good, a blown thermal fuse is a common cause; you can verify it with a multimeter for continuity and replace it if it reads open. For many models the same knob part is sold under several names, so if a knob is slipping or the dryer knob not working, replace it to restore function. If you need the exact replacement, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the right part for your specific dryer and get step-by-step guidance for swapping it out.
01 - Kenmore 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.
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Highly Likely
02 - Kenmore 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 - Kenmore 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 - Kenmore 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 - Kenmore 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 - Kenmore 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 won't my dryer start when I press the start button?
My dryer knob just spins and won't change settings, which part is bad?
The whole display or timer is dead, could the power cord be the problem?
How do I test a thermal fuse or start-related parts with a multimeter?
How do I use my model number to find the right replacement part on RepairClinic.com?
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