My Whirlpool Washing Machine's Knobs Are Loose

Improper Use

• You should only turn the cycle setting knob on a Whirlpool washer clockwise to choose a cycle setting. Although the knob will turn in both directions, the knob could come loose if you continually turn it counterclockwise. It might even pop off eventually. If you pass the cycle setting you want, continue turning the knob clockwise until it reaches the setting you desire rather than reversing the direction of the knob.

Part Malfunction

• If you have to jiggle the knob on your Whirlpool washer to make the knob advance, the knob is broken. The wire that connects the knob to the control console, which directs the washer to perform, is likely experiencing connectivity problems. If you have an ohm multimeter tester, you can gauge the part’s connectivity and its voltage level. A weak or low reading will confirm that the knob’s wiring is faulty. Contact Whirlpool to repair or replace the knob’s wiring.

Wear

• Over time, the knob could become loose from normal use of your Whirlpool washing machine. When this occurs, the part that holds the knob to the timer shaft has probably broken, preventing the knob from maintaining a firm grip of the shaft. A worn knob usually can’t be repaired and must be replaced.

Knob Replacement

• It’s fairly easy to replace a loose knob on most Whirlpool washers. Obtain a new knob from an appliance retailer that sells Whirlpool replacement parts or from Whirlpool. Push the existing knob in toward the control console, and turn the knob counterclockwise until it separates from the console. Place the new knob on the exposed timer shaft and turn the knob clockwise until it’s secure. Contact Whirlpool for additional instructions if you experience problems removing the existing knob or installing the new one.