Choose Product
Identify Problem
03
Find Solutions

Whirlpool Dryer starts then stops

If your Whirlpool dryer starts then stops or runs briefly then stops, the most likely causes run from a faulty moisture sensor to control and timing parts. Start with the moisture sensor, which tells the machine when clothes are dry but rarely fails; next check the motor relay, then the control board and main control board for signs of burning or shorts. Intermittent start button or touchpad problems point to a bad user control and display board, and a defective timer can also make the dryer stop mid-cycle. Before replacing parts, check the door switch and start button, and use a multimeter and the wiring diagram to test relays and the timer if you’re comfortable doing so. If you prefer to replace a part, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to pull up the exact replacement for your dryer. This approach saves guessing, gets the right parts fast, and gives you clear next steps whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or repairing a dryer for the first time.

01 - Whirlpool Dryer Moisture Sensor

The moisture sensor monitors the clothing’s moisture level and sends a signal to the control board when the clothes are dry. If the moisture sensor is malfunctioning, it could inaccurately report that the clothing have sufficient dried, causing the drum to stop spinning. However, this is rarely the case. Before replacing the moisture sensor check all the more commonly defective parts. If you have determined that all of the other components are working properly, replace the moisture sensor.
Enter model number to search for the required part specific to your product
Top Solution

02 - Whirlpool Dryer Motor Relay

If both the door switch and dryer touchpad are working appropriately, it's possible the motor relay is defective. However, this is not that common of a problem. Before replacing the motor relay, check all the more commonly defective parts. If you determine that all of the other components are working properly, you can test the motor relay by using a multimeter and consulting the wiring diagram to help determine if it is malfunctioning.
Top Solution

03 - Whirlpool Dryer Control Board

If both the door switch and dryer touchpad are working appropriately, it's possible the control board is defective. However, this is not that common of a problem. Before replacing the board, check all of the more commonly defective parts. If you have determined that all of the other components are working properly, replace the control board. (The control board cannot be easily tested, but you can try to inspect it for signs of burning or a shorted-out component.)
Top Solution

04 - Whirlpool Dryer Main Control Board

If both the door switch and dryer touchpad are working appropriately, it's possible the main control board is defective. However, this is not that common of a problem. Before replacing the board, check all of the more commonly defective parts. If you have determined that all of the other components are working properly, replace the main control board. (The control board cannot be easily tested, but you can try to inspect it for signs of burning or a shorted-out component.)
Top Solution

05 - Whirlpool Dryer User Control and Display Board

If the dryer's start/cancel button is only working intermittently, it's likely the user control and display board is malfunctioning and causing the dryer to stop running. A new board will need to be installed to resolve the problem.
Highly Likely

06 - Whirlpool Dryer Timer

If both the door switch and dryer touchpad are working appropriately, it's possible the timer is defective. However, this is not that common of a problem. Before replacing the timer, check all the more commonly defective parts. If you determine that all of the other components are working properly, test the timer by using a multimeter and consulting the wiring diagram. If the timer is defective, replace it.
Highly Likely

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my dryer start then stop after a few seconds?
How do I test the motor relay or timer when my dryer starts then stops?
My dryer’s start/cancel button works intermittently and the dryer stops running, what should I replace?
How can I tell if the control board or main control board is bad?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the correct replacement part?

Shop by Whirlpool Dryer Parts