Kenmore Washer Repair - How to replace the Lid Switch Assembly

Need help replacing the Lid Switch Assembly (Part 3949238 ) in your Kenmore Washer? Watch this how to video with simple, step-by-step instructions for a successful DIY repair.
Stay safe during your repair! Be sure to check www.fix.com/safety/ for proper safety procedures before you begin. Use of this video is at your own risk, without liability to Fix.com.
Fix Part Number: FIX350431
OEM Part Number: 3949238
Why you might need to replace the Lid Switch Assembly:
Lid switch broke away from top
Washer will not run
Washer will not spin or drain
What tools you need for this repair:
5/16" Nut Driver
Flat Blade Screw Driver
Phillips Screw Driver
The information in this video is specific to Kenmore. To find a Lid Switch Assembly specific to your model, visit www.fix.com
Not what you’re looking for? For more washer repair help click here: www.fix.com/parts/appliance/w...
Where you can buy this part:
www.fix.com/parts/washer/kenm...
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[@looksbooks]

You made this look easy enough for me to try. And so I did! Repair person 'guestimated' me $185. I bought the part for $12.99 and spent a careful hour following each step, cleaning the back and inside of the machine, and the floor behind, so in reality: 15 min of repair. Wonderful! Just ran machine - all is well! You are a good teacher. And I know: I taught health care workers. Sign this 71 year old woman Happy to have had your help!!!

[@conejomalvado6280]

I just used this video to replace the lid switch on my washer. Many thanks, I could not have done this without your help.

[@mariamcdowell651]

A 50 plus widow on a fixed budget. Watched the video lots my machine was a little different but you gave me enough information to get the job done. Thank you.

[@danielconroy8928]

So here's a grateful 71 year old who just rocked this repair thanks to you! Loved the calm, confidence-inspiring vibe and easy pace - well done.

[@rosiebrown7731]

This guy is good!!! What I appreciated about him is that he didn't talk a lot. He tells you what to do simply and clear. I'm sixty-seven years old and a woman who would rather call a repair man. Because of COVID-19 I didn't want anyone coming into my house so I decided to You Tube it. I'm so happy I watched this particular one. He is amazing. My washing machine is working perfect. So Thank you.

[@northernnewsnet]

Perfect step-by-step instructions with no missing video clips. An awesome start-to-finish video. Thank you so much!!! Just saved myself a $200 labor charge.

[@kevinkoop9325]

Awesome video. Plain, simple, step-by-step instructions. No unnecessary "fluff" content to confuse the viewer. Very well done. Thanks!

[@picknngrinn]

Yes indeed! Gettin the old gal apart was a piece o'cake...thanks to your very capable guidance! Thank you!

[@Fender5621]

I REALLY would like to have had the camera pointed to the bolt on the back that secures the front to the back.!!! Beyond this one piece, this was a good instructional video.

[@shannonsimon9213]

Wonderful directions and visuals. I am a 68 year old lady and I just finished repairing the washing machine. Whooo Hooo I also created a bypass (thanks to another KZbin how to) so I could use the machine until the new part arrived.

[@staceyelmore5298]

👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@elisedv7674]

You go girl!

[@martytruelove5026]

Atta Girl,my buddy's wife says she can do anything a man can do and she can...and she is very pretty to boot.You sound like a wonderful lady,have a Dandy day.

[@coutterhill]

THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!! I thought I was going to have to buy a new washer. All it was was the lid switch. I appreciate this video so much. Thanks again!

[@Grissem]

This is the best step by step video on this subject. So easy. The best part was it allowed me an indepth look at the washer. I was also able to clean everything inside that had 10+ years or dirt, grime & dust. Much appreciated!

[@jackevans1298]

78 years young. Followed this video and everything was exactly as presented. Excellent 🥰👏👏👏👏

[@clow1570]

we can only hope the washer outlives us !

[@amandacarden3483]

I really loved this video .the instructions were clear. Helps me. Save and not having to buy other washer. Simple easy fix .. I have a working washer again

[@FixDotCom]

Glad it helped!

[@davidrichardson4277]

Very easy to follow this fellow. Not like half of the automotive videos!

[@wendycloutier-hearns6370]

So helpful and professional! We have already used your video to repair our dishwasher. Thank you so much! I really appreciate that you just get down to business without a whole life story! Lol!

[@MrDarknite26]

Absolutely great detail in video. Ordered the part $14.99. Installed using KZbin video. All done. Saved $100.00.

[@hemants337]

Thanks for doing this video. We were able to replace our lid switch easily.

[@marionwright2773]

Expert, clear, to the point, step by step, and complete instruction. Midaged female and I did it! Thank you

[@jennyerickson8014]

thank you SO MUCH for concise instructions! Your video showed me exactly what to do and saved me the money of having an appliance person fixing it! One suggestion I would like to share is to have video of you removing the part of rear/side locations. Again, THANK YOU for this video. It helped me!

[@chrisallen5295]

Thank you for this straightforward video. Saved me a ton of money and hassle.

[@thomjohnson4101]

This is a great informative video. The gentleman does a great job explaining what he’s doing. I could not get my outside cabinet to go under the front bottom of the base. His instruction was priceless and perfect and I had it back together in no time.

[@parrishblue788]

A $12 part and 30 min of install time... saved me so much $$$. Toughest part was figuring how to align the cabinet back so it sat in those grooves. Also, FYI: if you have pets, you will find a lot of pet hair in the very top of the wash basin. There is a large plastic ring with tabs that you can easily remove, then clean in between the outer tank and the agitation basin. 😝

[@tanyah2524]

You're supposed to tell me this before I put the cabinet back on. LOL

[@georgedavall9449]

GREAT COMMENT

[@mikemotorbike4283]

Always read the comments before attempting repair. Other experienced people may have additional information or shortcuts, etc.

[@christinajohnston9818]

Wow, great video, step by step. I'm 74 & for $15.00 just replaced my lid lock switch. Will look for your videos if I ever need help again.

[@FixDotCom]

Thanks for the vote of confidence, Christina! Good luck with any future repairs, and hopefully we have a video that can help you as well!

[@NyimaWongchuk]

Great video! Exactly what I needed!

[@FixDotCom]

Great to hear!

[@windydrifter7633]

Still excellent in 2021. THANK YOU!

[@jtku4057]

Excellent! I couldn't agree more with the positive comments below. I watched him take a step and I copied him. The only issue I had was with a flooding tray we have under the washer which complicates taking off the housing. Otherwise, it couldn't have been easier. (And, I didn't cuss even once. My wife thanks you.)

[@j.j.dugger3739]

This was one of the BEST videos I & my husband have ever watched! The instructions were so detailed. AND the camera work was outstanding. We'd watched other videos. Please accept our praise for showing how to rock off the end covers for the control panel, showing how to get out those curved/recurved clips that hold the panel to the top, showing how to re-align the housing noting how the control panel would not seat properly if it wasn't ... and all the other close-ups and detailed instructions about what each step entailed.

[@willyumsstudio]

Happy to find an easy-to-follow video with exactly the same washer as what I have(or at least indistinguishable from mine) so everything was in the exact same spot. I especially appreciate that you said what size ground screw it was so I could get the right size wrench the first time.

[@seanavery8637]

Concise and to the point. Great Video!! Didn’t have to wade through a bunch of jargon. I am a plumber and mechanically inclined so all I needed was a few details which were provided right up front. Thank You

[@ellavated7174]

Thank you, thank you, thank you! I purchased a switch replacement part 3 years ago for my Kenmore 80 series (yep, that old). I was able to Macgyver (bypass) the switch for that long -- it was working so why not save myself a couple hundred dollars to have a technician do it. Well, two weeks ago my washer stopped draining/spinning and I decided that now was the time. And what timing! Today, with your instructions both visually and verbally on point, I fixed it all by myself!

[@ab158231]

Thank goodness. Do you know how long and how many stupid things I would have tooken apart on this hand me down just to get to that one part without this video. It would have got cray

[@sharkinstx]

Thanks for this. It had been several years since I had a washer apart (I replaced the pump in ours after a sock got stuck in it), and my mother-in-law’s machine had a broken lid switch. The one thing, though - the screw down low on the left side doesn’t go into anything but the cabinet - it’s a placebo. The only things that really hold it together are the clips on the top, under the control panel.

[@victoriaspadea8085]

Thanks for this info!!

[@l.alongi1544]

Thank you for posting this video. I was able to change the lid assembly unit on my Kenmore .

[@joshderuiter6488]

great video!! my machine died mid cycle, so I did some troubleshooting online, figured it might be the switch. ordered a new one on amazon. It came yesterday, so i found this video this morning, and replaced it. Very easy to follow along! Thank you!

[@jillclancey357]

Thank you, thank you! I ordered my $10 part which came in the mail two days later and easily followed your step-by-step instructions and my broken Lid Switch Assembly has been replaced and I am back in the business of washing clothes! Appreciate anyone who explains so easily these "how to's"! Saved us the money and waiting time of a repairman. Blessings to you! -Jill

[@gloriacapistrano803]

Great tutorial. Thank you very much. I fixed my washer the first time in 2018 following your very clear instructions. The lid switch is broken again this time so I’m back watching your tutorial again to guide me through it. Good thing I ordered extra lid switch from amazon then so I have one available right away

[@codyhaviland9650]

Excellent video! Well lit, clearly narrated, good audio. Wish all the how to videos I utilize were as well done.

[@aprildnewsom5105]

My husband & I just followed this video, it was very, very helpful. Our replacement part was about $35 & aside from putting it back together it wasn’t that bad. Thank you very much!

[@maryloulake6980]

Thank you a million times. We two old people just put in the new lid switch. For a $10 part and your video, we might get some more mileage out of this washer.

[@hadarmom]

Thank you for making this video. The directions are clear and concise. You saved me a bunch of money!

[@jamesbarringer451]

I did the job myself quickly and easily thanks to this video. Excellent work!

[@777dingo]

It works great with the new switch, I ordered 2 switches so when it breaks again, I have one ready to go! I taped the spare part on the back of the washer so I don't misplace it.

[@caroltaylor4690]

Great video, great teacher. Very to the point & precise. Easy to understand. Thank you so much!

[@sonofthe80s]

MANY MANY times what happens is, the switch mechanism doesn't break - it's the switch case that splits. Two tiny plastic tabs that keep the 2 parts of the case together ultimately bear the force of the lid closing repeatedly. The tabs break, the switch separates, and when the lid pin comes in contact with the switch arm, instead of actuating the switch it simply pushes the two pieces of the switch case apart. This can be "fixed" by removing the two screws that hold the switch in place (drop a towel in the drum first, in case you drop a screw), working the switch assembly out above the drum (push drum to right slightly - switch comes right out) and inspect the seam of the switch for separation. If separated, tightly ZIP TIE the case tightly back together. Be sure the zip tie head or "block" is on the right or rear side so it doesn't interfere with reassembly. Now put it back together and the switch is stronger than before. Oh yeah while out, wipe the switch off and optionally spray some electrical contract cleaner inside the tiny holes near the switch hinges (give a minute or two to dry).

[@0rlandocottman994]

Thanks for the video. My lid switch went up yesterday replaced it after watching your video this morning had the job done in less than an hour. Thanks 👍

[@fredburton5190]

Nicely done! I followed the steps and the machine is working again. Thank you!!

[@MrAjzetting]

Very good how to video by a professional done professionally.

[@jimmason7353]

Thank you! That's exactly the video that I was looking for. - Jim

[@slaughterhound8793]

Very clear & easy to follow directions & your camera work illustrated the procedures that needed to be followed very well. Thanks!

[@grantgiller2064]

Thank you so much for this, wouldn't have known where to start.

[@timsharonstine8063]

Easy to understand and follow video. Thank you so much!

[@kennie9304]

This video really helped me!! I followed every step and my washing machine is working! I’m so happy lol

[@jeanlouisroederer5140]

Thanks for an excellent explanation and video. Gives me the confidence to tackle our washer.

[@anthonyrcontreras]

It worked! Nice step-by-step instructions and pacing. Thanks.

[@marilynread424]

Thanks so much. After watching your video a few times, the repair was straightforward. Made it possible for me to do it myself.

[@sarathgunawardhana5427]

Fantastic.. Ordered the parts and follow the instructions.Job is Done! Thank you!

[@VR-ne8ec]

Thank you very much for your help,after I watched your video it was very easy for me to repair my wash machine,thank you again !

[@EdwardKinney-dy1wh]

Great instructions. It took me longer to move things out of the way then it did to repair it.

[@diannadeel2366]

This is a wonderful video on replacing this part on a washer. Step by step and so easy to follow. Thank you. 🙂

[@dboyledboyle1]

This was great! Made the project VERY EASY for me. Thank you!!!

[@emilianapiorkowska2758]

follow his instruction , replaced the motor and all works perfectly , thank you

[@619onmine]

Thank you, knocked that out in 25 minutes. You made it look too easy.

[@mmann1961]

Thank you so much! Although I also am not sure what the bolt on the back was secured to, as it currently doesn't seem to be secured to anything. That being said, I was able to successfully replace the lid switch on my Kenmore washer for less than $9.00. For that, I am forever grateful.

[@bradbohler8514]

Excellent step by step instruction. Made the process easy and rewarding.

[@SJDevenney1]

Thank you so much. You just saved me $350........ your work is greatly appreciated!

[@EJFXxx]

its important not to remove the switch screws until the cabinet is pulled away ... dropping screws in the wash tub is a mood killer

[@darsiestefania57]

I've watched the video multiple times now I will attempt to do it. Love that the video has great quality and is extremely detailed.

[@darsiestefania57]

Getting the washer cover/ cabinet back on was much harder than expected.

[@ryanhanson3083]

Thanks for the help and getting right to the job!

[@lewisl.szerecz2273]

You came through when most needed. Thank you!

[@apsaravideo]

Very detailed step by step. Thank you for sharing.

[@l.s.c.9113]

Very Good instructions. Remember to take the silver piece off the old switch and attach it to the new one

[@stoney139]

Excellent, excellent video!!! Straight forward and concise. Thanks.

[@teepeerocks1]

Yep, I just finished the job. Thank you so much

[@mikesturkie6621]

Great Video and made my repair job as easy as it could possibly be. Thanks for posting this

[@piratefancarrie]

Thank you! Your instructions were easy to follow.

[@YLC-uz6sr]

Sir, you literally saved me today! Thanks for posting this!

[@suzannerussell6109]

Thanks for the excellent instructions. That fixed the problem.

[@tsprucerd9120]

Excellent information and step by step video. Thank you for saving me time and money!

[@gregjobe4880]

Made the job very easy to perform. Thorough directions and great visuals. Bought the part on-line for $9 and an hour later was doing laundry. Thanks for taking time to make the video👍

[@nandaglick9067]

where did you get that for $9? I only see it for $35!!!

[@gregjobe4880]

@@nandaglick9067 If you Google Sears Kenmore Washer Lid Switch 3949238 you will see it on amazon.com or walmart.com for $9.00. Your owner's manual should have a parts list for your washer. I would check there first to make sure it's the same part number. My washer model was 110.24862300

[@erics5022]

Thanks for the video. Ten minutes and $28 part and my washing machine works again!

[@Lrover16]

It is a great step-by-step and connecting the new switch was a total breeze. One problem... the reassembly of the cabinet was too easy. It took me more than an hour to reassemble JUST the cabinet. What you didn't take in consideration was how constraint some spaces can be to disassemble and reassemble the cabinet, removing the water hoses and the debit hose. Still a good video.

[@richsaladin3178]

Thank you! What a blessing!

[@frankfitzpatrick5168]

Thank you. Your instructions were clear and concise. And now to do some wash!

[@MarkM-xd2zo]

This video was EXTREMELY HELPFUL! Thanks so much! I got my washer going again promptly with your assistance. I wish only the best to you in the future. :)

[@cassandrarichardson5999]

i'm thankful for this video....went to Bob appliances, purchased the lid switch for my kenmore washer....easy, and it works thanks!!!

[@FixDotCom]

Your very welcome Cassandra. Have a great day :)

[@69camaroholic]

Spot on the only thing I did different was lean the front part with the lid back just enough as to not have to line it up to put it back together and the whole process took under 10 min. Oh and I had to vacuum and clean the dirty floor. One other thing I got the part for $9 on amazon

[@EricMuench1]

Thanks for great instruction!

[@MarkSmith-pt7rz]

Very well done video. Saved hundreds of dollars doing this simple repair myself. Thank you!

[@FixDotCom]

Great to hear! Thanks for watching!

[@egres234]

Thank you!!!! Perfect directions!!!

[@chemcody5119]

Thank you very much for this video. I ordered the part and it went exactly how you described it!

[@martytruelove5026]

Very Professional video...uniform and all.I would let you into my house to fix appliances,sir.

[@richardshultz1176]

Very GOOD video. Helped me immensely!!

[@giantessmaria]

thanks my friend. these machines are such a pleasure to work on. the only part that takes a little time for me at least, is getting the frame back on in the first shot. usually one side pops off while i'm lining up the other side....and then that side pops back off when i'm lining up the first side again...

[@niloisabelo]

Thank you sir. You’re a good help.

[@latashaallen6819]

Very informative.... I really appreciated this video, it helped me so much! Thank you.

[@joerysmittick3803]

Great video saved me a ton of money. Thanks

[@AlaskaOutdoor]

Amazing!!! Thank you! Works great now!!😁

[@piscis12]

Thank you for showing.

[@davidwebsteriii]

Lifesaver! Thank you for the great information. Keep up the videos

[@charlesthomas1142]

Video is spot-on. FYI, my 90 series washer did not have the screw in the back (the one folks complained was not shown clearly).