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Samsung Dryer starts on its own

If your Samsung dryer starts on its own, the most likely culprit is a failing motor relay that is sending power to the motor when it should be off. Next most common are a bad timer or a faulty control board or main control board, which can send incorrect run signals. Less often the problem is the touchpad or the user control and display board if the start button is intermittent or stuck. Start by noting whether the touchpad responds normally; if it does, focus on the motor relay and timer and test them with a multimeter using the wiring diagram for guidance. Control boards are harder to bench-test but look for burned components or signs of shorting, and replace them if inspection or symptoms point that way. If the start button works only sometimes, swap the user control or touchpad assembly. To speed repairs, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement motor relay, timer, control board, or touchpad that fits your dryer.

01 - Samsung 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 - Samsung 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 - Samsung 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 - Samsung 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 - Samsung 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 - Samsung 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?
How do I test the motor relay or timer when the dryer starts by itself?
Can the main control board cause the dryer to start randomly and how can I tell?
My dryer starts when I barely touch the start button. Is that the touchpad or the user control board?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the correct replacement part?

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