Choose Product
Identify Problem
03
Find Solutions

Jenn Air Dryer starts on its own

If your Jenn Air dryer starts on its own, the most likely culprit is a failing motor relay that is feeding power to the motor when it should be off; that's the first part to check because it commonly sticks closed. If the relay checks out, the next things to test are the timer and then the main control board, since a defective timer or a shorted control board can send power at the wrong time. Less commonly the problem is the user interface: an intermittent start/cancel button or a bad touchpad and control panel can make the dryer behave like the start button is being pressed. If your dryer start button not working or your dryer controls not responding look suspicious, replace the user control/display board. Use a multimeter and the wiring diagram to test relays and timers, and visually inspect control boards for burned components before swapping parts. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part that fits your dryer and get step-by-step instructions to complete the repair.

01 - Jenn Air 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.
Enter model number to search for the required part specific to your product
Highly Likely

02 - Jenn Air 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.
Common

03 - Jenn Air 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.)
Common

04 - Jenn Air Dryer Main 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.)
Common

05 - Jenn Air 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.
Less Common

06 - Jenn Air 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 start running. A new board will need to be installed to resolve the problem.
Less Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my dryer start on its own or the start button not work properly?
How can I tell if the touchpad, user control board, or main control board is causing the problem?
Can I test the motor relay or timer myself with a multimeter?
The control board shows signs of burning. Do I need to replace the main control board?
How do I enter my model number to find and buy the correct replacement part on RepairClinic.com?

Shop by Jenn Air Dryer Parts