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How to Replace Door Latches on a Front-Load Dryer

A front-load dryer closes securely with a door latch to prevent the cutoff switch from engaging if the door should swing open while the appliance is in mid-cycle. Dryers shut off automatically as a safety precaution when the door opens. The latch mechanism may wear out with repeated use, or it can break if the door striker snags on clothes. Replacing the part takes less than half an hour.

Things You'll Need

  • Needle-nose pliers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Open the dryer door to grab the metal clip extending from the inside of the door, using the pliers. Squeeze the clip to remove it from the door. If the original clip is already broken off, skip this step.

    • 2

      Squeeze the new clip with the pliers and insert the edges into the hole in the dryer door. Let go of the clip so it will spring open into the locked position in the door.

    • 3

      Grip the edge of the rectangular door catch in the door frame with the pliers. Pull out this part from the front of the appliance.

    • 4

      Press the new catch into the opening in the door frame until it seats in place.