How to Check if a Kenmore Dryer Timer Is Bad

Unplug the Kenmore's power cord.

Take out the screws on the back of the control console where it attaches to the top of the rear panel, using a screwdriver.

Remove the screws on the left and right sides of the control console. Save all hardware.

Tip the control console forward onto the top of the dryer to expose the wiring and controls inside the console. When facing the open console from the rear, the timer is on the left.

Pull the wires off the timer terminals by holding the metal connector on the end of each wire. Make notes of where the wires attach so you can reconnect them.

Set the multimeter to test circuit resistance, which is usually labeled "RX1" on the selector knob.

Hold the multimeter test rods against the two terminals on the timer. A normal reading for Kenmore dryers will fall in the range of 2,000 to 3,000 ohms, as displayed on the multimeter. The precise reading depends on your particular Kenmore model; however, any reading outside the range means the dryer timer is defective and must be replaced.