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Tappan Dryer starts on its own

If your Tappan dryer starts on its own or seems to run by itself, the most likely culprit is a faulty motor relay, so check that first and test it with a multimeter against the wiring diagram if the touchpad seems to be working. Next on the list are the timer and the main control board or control board assemblies, which can send power to the motor at the wrong times if they fail. Less commonly, a worn or intermittent touchpad, start/cancel button, or user control and display board will make the dryer start unexpectedly — if the start button only works sometimes, that control board is a prime suspect. Before you swap parts, verify the user interface is responding and rule out obvious wiring or short issues; when you do need a replacement, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact motor relay, timer, control board, or touchpad that fits your dryer. If you want, we have parts and step-by-step guidance to walk you through the repair.

01 - Tappan 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 - Tappan 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 - Tappan 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 - Tappan 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 - Tappan 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 - Tappan 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

Dryer controls not working: Why does my dryer start on its own?
Dryer won't stop: dryer starts on its own and keeps running — what should I check?
Dryer starts then stops: dryer starts on its own then shuts off — what causes that?
Dryer controls not working: How do I test the timer, motor relay, or control board?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the correct replacement?