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RCA Dryer starts on its own

If your RCA dryer starts on its own, start by treating it as an electrical control fault: the most likely cause is a failing motor relay, followed by a defective timer, then a bad main control or control board, with a faulty touchpad or user control/display board less commonly to blame. Check the start/cancel button and touchpad first for sticking or intermittent operation, since a defective button can mimic a bad board. If the controls look OK, test the motor relay and timer with a multimeter and the wiring diagram, and inspect the control board for burned components or shorts before replacing it. Faulty user controls will show as dryer start button not working intermittently or dryer controls not responding, so swap the panel if it’s erratic. RepairClinic carries the replacement relays, timers, and control boards you’ll need; enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part that fits your dryer and get parts and repair guidance for the job.

01 - RCA 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 - RCA 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 - RCA 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 - RCA 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 - RCA 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 - RCA 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?
My dryer controls are acting up — could the touchpad be the problem?
How do I test the motor relay or timer to see if they cause the dryer to start by themselves?
Should I replace the main control board if my dryer keeps starting on its own?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the correct replacement?