Dryer starts on its own

If your dryer starts on its own or keeps running when you did not press start, the most likely causes are a bad motor relay, a faulty timer, or a failed control board, with the user control or touchpad less often to blame. Begin by checking the touchpad and start/cancel button for sticky contacts or intermittent operation, since a stuck or shorted control can trigger the machine. If the controls look OK, the motor relay is the top suspect; it can send power to the motor unexpectedly and is testable with a multimeter and the wiring diagram. A defective timer or the main control board can also close circuits at the wrong time, and the board should be inspected for burnt components or replaced if testing is impractical. If the start button is intermittent, replacing the user control or display board typically fixes the issue. Enter your dryer model number at RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement relay, timer, control board, or touchpad that fits your machine and get step-by-step repair guidance.

01 - Dryer Motor Relay

If the dryer touchpad is 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.

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Highly Likely

02 - Dryer Timer

If the dryer touchpad is 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.

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Common

03 - Dryer Control Board

If the dryer touchpad is 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.)

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Common

04 - Dryer Main Control Board

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Common

05 - Dryer Touchpad and Control Panel

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 start running. A new board will need to be installed to resolve the problem.

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Less Common

06 - Dryer User Control and Display Board

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Less Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my dryer start on its own?

Can a bad touchpad or start button make the dryer start randomly?

How do I test the motor relay or timer?

My dryer starts then stops — what parts should I check?

How do I enter my model number to find the correct replacement part on RepairClinic.com?

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