Step-by-step fix
Step 1: Make sure the timer knob is really the problem
- Unplug the washer before touching the control knob or panel area.
- Look at the timer knob closely for visible cracks, a split center, missing pieces, or a knob that spins without turning the timer.
- Try turning the knob gently. If the knob feels loose but the timer shaft behind it does not move normally, the knob is likely stripped.
- If the knob is missing, remove any loose broken pieces from the shaft area so you can inspect what is left behind.
If it works: You have a clear reason to replace the knob and the problem appears to be at the knob itself.
If it doesn’t: If the knob feels solid and turns the timer normally, the washer may have a different problem and replacing the knob may not help.
Stop if:- The timer shaft itself is cracked, bent, or broken.
- You smell burning, see melted plastic, or notice signs of electrical damage behind the control area.
Step 2: Remove the old timer knob
- Pull the knob straight off the timer shaft with steady pressure.
- If the knob has a center cap, gently pry the cap off with a small flat screwdriver and check for a clip or fastener underneath.
- If a retaining clip is present, remove it carefully and set it aside where it will not get lost.
- Use needle-nose pliers only if broken plastic is stuck on the shaft, and pull carefully so you do not damage the timer stem.
If it works: The old knob is off and the timer shaft is exposed.
If it doesn’t: If the knob will not come off, check again for a hidden cap, clip, or fastener before forcing it.
Stop if:- The timer shaft starts pulling out, twisting abnormally, or feels loose in the control panel.
- The control panel trim or surrounding plastic begins cracking while you remove the knob.
Step 3: Inspect and clean the timer shaft
- Use a flashlight to inspect the shaft for rounded edges, cracks, or stripped splines.
- Wipe away dust, detergent residue, and loose plastic bits from the shaft and the area around it.
- If the old knob left plastic packed into the shaft grooves, remove it gently so the new knob can seat fully.
- Compare the old knob to the new one and make sure the center opening and shape match.
If it works: The shaft is clean, intact, and ready for the new knob.
If it doesn’t: If the new knob does not match the old one or will not line up with the shaft shape, pause and verify the replacement part before installing it.
Stop if:- The shaft is visibly damaged or too worn to hold a new knob securely.
Step 4: Install the new washer timer knob
- Align the new knob with the timer shaft so the center opening matches the shaft shape.
- Push the knob straight on until it seats fully. Do not hammer it or force it at an angle.
- If your knob uses a retaining clip or fastener, reinstall it the same way the old one was secured.
- Reinstall any center cap after the knob is fully seated.
If it works: The new knob sits straight, feels secure, and turns with the timer shaft.
If it doesn’t: If the knob wobbles, sits crooked, or pulls back off easily, remove it and check for a mismatch or debris blocking a full fit.
Stop if:- The new knob cracks during installation.
- The shaft resists normal installation because it appears bent or damaged.
Step 5: Check the knob through the full timer range
- With the washer still unplugged, turn the new knob through its normal settings slowly.
- Make sure the pointer lines up reasonably with the cycle markings and the knob does not slip while turning.
- Pull or push the knob only if your washer normally uses that motion for starting or stopping, and make sure it moves as expected.
- Listen and feel for smooth timer movement instead of free-spinning or grinding.
If it works: The knob turns the timer normally and feels engaged across the full range.
If it doesn’t: If the knob still slips or does not control the timer, the timer shaft or timer assembly may be the real issue.
Stop if:- The shaft binds hard, grinds, or feels like it may break if turned further.
Step 6: Restore power and test a real cycle selection
- Plug the washer back in.
- Set the timer to a normal wash cycle using the new knob and start the washer the way you normally would.
- Let the washer run long enough to confirm the knob stays engaged and the timer advances during use.
- Turn the washer off and try one more cycle selection to make sure the repair holds in normal operation.
If it works: The washer starts, the timer knob stays secure, and the timer responds normally during real use.
If it doesn’t: If the washer still will not start or the timer does not advance, the knob replacement was not the full fix and the timer or another control problem should be checked next.
Stop if:- The washer trips power, sparks, or shows signs of overheating during the test.
Replacement Parts
Repair Riot may earn a commission from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.
FAQ
How do I know if the timer knob is bad or the timer itself is bad?
A bad knob is usually cracked, stripped, or loose and may spin without moving the timer properly. If the shaft behind the knob is damaged or the timer does not respond even with a good-fitting knob, the timer itself may be the problem.
Can I use glue to fix a cracked washer timer knob?
Glue is usually a short-term fix at best. Timer knobs take repeated twisting force, so a cracked center often fails again quickly. Replacing the knob is the more reliable repair.
Why won't my old timer knob pull off?
Some knobs pull straight off, while others hide a center cap, retaining clip, or fastener. Check for those parts before forcing the knob off and risking damage to the timer shaft or control panel.
Do I need to open the washer cabinet for this repair?
Usually no. Most timer knob replacements are done from the front of the control area. You only need deeper disassembly if the shaft or timer behind the knob is damaged.
What if the new knob feels loose after installation?
First make sure you ordered the correct replacement and that no broken plastic is still stuck on the shaft. If the correct knob still will not grip, the timer shaft may be worn or damaged.