Unlock the Right Part
for Your Repair
Find the exact part you need
Enter your model number to see parts that fit your machine.
Price Match Guarantee
In-stock parts ship the same day
365-Day Return Policy
Price Match GuaranteeChoose Product
Identify Problem
03
Find Solutions
HomeRepair HelpTappan Washer RepairTappan Washer door or lid won't lock/unlock Repair
Tappan Washer door or lid won't lock/unlock
Won’t your Tappan washer lid lock or your washing machine door won't lock or unlock? Inspect the parts that align and secure the door first. A damaged or missing boot seal retaining ring can pull the door boot seal away from the front panel, preventing the door from closing correctly. On top-load models, a damaged or misaligned washing machine lid may keep the lid strike from lining up with the latch. On front-load models, a damaged or displaced door boot seal can also block the door from locking. If the washer still will not lock, the door or lid lock may have a mechanical or electrical failure, which can also keep the washer from starting or spinning. A bent or misaligned door hinge is another likely cause, followed by a defective door lock assembly. Inspect the lid strike, door strike, lock, hinge, boot seal, and retaining ring for damage or poor alignment. For electrical testing, use the wiring diagram and a multimeter to check lock-switch continuity. Enter your Tappan washer model number to find the exact replacement part for your specific washing machine.
01 - Tappan Washing Machine Boot Seal Retaining Ring
A washer door boot seal retaining ring is the component that secures the door boot seal to the front panel on front-load washing machines. If the retaining ring is damaged or missing, the boot seal can become detached from the panel and prevent the door from closing and locking properly. If the retaining ring is missing or broken, you should install a new one.
Enter model number to search for the required part specific to your product
Top Solution
02 - Tappan Washing Machine Lid
If the washing machine's lid is damaged or misaligned, the lid strike won't be able to line up with the lock or latch when you attempt to close the lid. Inspect the lid for damage and replace if necessary.
Top Solution
03 - Tappan Washing Machine Door Boot Seal
If the door boot seal on front-load washers is damaged or becomes misaligned, it can prevent the door from closing and locking properly. Inspect the door boot seal for any damage and replace the seal if required.
Top Solution
04 - Tappan Washing Machine Lock
The door or lid lock secures the washer door or lid during operation. Once the door or lid is closed, the washer can begin operating. If the door or lid is not latched shut, the door switch will prevent the washer from operating. If the lock is defective, the washer will not spin or start. The lock can fail either mechanically or electrically. Inspect the lock for damage. If the lock is damaged or does not latch properly, replace it. To determine if the lock has failed electrically, consult your washer’s wiring diagram and use a multimeter to test each of the lock switches, if applicable, for continuity.
Top Solution
05 - Tappan Washing Machine Door Hinge
If the washing machine's lid strike or door strike does not line up with the lock or latch when you attempt to close the lid or door, it's likely the lid hinge or door hinge is bent or misaligned. This can prevent the door or lid from locking. Inspect the hinge for damage and replace if necessary.
Highly Likely
06 - Tappan Washing Machine Door Lock
The door lock assembly might be defective. Inspect the door lock for damage. If the door lock is damaged, replace it.
Highly Likely
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won't my Tappan washer door or lid lock?
Can a bad door lock cause my Tappan washer not to start or spin?
How do I fix a Tappan washer door that won't unlock?
How do I test a Tappan washer lid lock or door lock with a multimeter?
How can I find and purchase the correct Tappan washer door lock or lid part?
Shop by Tappan Washing Machine Parts
Shop by Popular Tappan Washing Machine Models
Our Story
Family-owned and operated since 1912, Burke America Parts Group is the longest-running genuine appliance, HVAC, and outdoor power equipment parts solution in North America. At Repair Clinic, we're proud to be an international brand trusted by the pros as well as the DIY community.
About Repair Clinic
© 2026 RepairClinic.com