How to change a washing machine button yourself?

The vast majority of modern washing machines are controlled by buttons, so if one of them stops working properly, it needs to be replaced. This is especially true if it's the on/off or cycle start button. Let's learn how to replace a washing machine button yourself.

What could have happened to the button?

So, there are several types of problems that the buttons on the CM control panel are susceptible to.

• A key is stuck, meaning it remains pressed continuously. If there's an indicator, the light will be on all the time.
• The key may fall into the groove.
• The button may fall out of the groove.
• Sometimes a button appears to be working properly, but does not perform the commands it is responsible for.

According to statistics, broken washing machine buttons are a rare occurrence. If this happens in the first few days or weeks of use, you should contact the service support center, as the problem is most likely a manufacturing defect.

If we exclude manufacturing defects from the list of reasons for breakdowns, the following factors can cause problems:

• Careless handling of keys. If you press them too hard or hit them, it's no wonder they break;
• Dirt and dust accumulate under the keycap. When the layer of dirt becomes too thick, it can prevent the key from making contact with the control board, causing no response after pressing the key;
• Control lever wear. This is purely a wear-and-tear process, so it's almost never seen on units less than 5 years old;
• There is a problem with the control board itself (the machine does not respond to commands, not because of the button).

The only thing a user can do to extend the life of their washing machine's keys is to handle them with care and periodically clean the keyholes. This is especially true for the keys that are used most frequently (power, start, and mode selection).

If an unimportant button on the panel stops working, in principle this makes further use of the unit still possible. However, it is necessary to identify the “root of evil”, since the problem may lie in the control module, which means that sooner or later it may spread to other keys and even elements of the CM. If the module breaks down, repairing it yourself is impossible and will be expensive.

Is it possible to restore the button myself?

If you're unsure about repairing your washing machine's buttons, it's best to leave it to a professional. Cleaning and replacing the buttons involves several steps.

• We disconnect the machine from the water supply and electricity.
• There are screws on the back wall that hold the top cover of the washing machine in place. Unscrew them and remove the cover.
• We disconnect all the wires and terminals, having first recorded their original position using a photo.
• We release the control unit from its mountings and move it away from the front wall of the washing machine. This allows unimpeded access to the keys.

Important! First, thoroughly clean the socket of dust and debris and check whether this affects the key's operation. A quick test is to ring the key.

If cleaning doesn't work, you can replace the button. To do this, you'll need to desolder the old button and solder a new one in its place.

Also, inspect the board for any bulges, dark spots, or other unusual parts. If any are found, it's best to replace the board rather than the buttons. Reassembly is done in reverse order.

   

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