Whirlpool Top Load Washing Machine Lid Lock Replacement

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Introduction

Use this guide to replace a newer-style Whirlpool top load washer lid lock assembly (W11307244) when the washer won’t start, won’t lock the lid, or shows lid lock-related flashing lights. Newer models use a snap-in lid lock design with no mounting screws, and the lid striker may not drop into the new lock without a quick fit procedure covered here.

What you need

Step 1 Prepare for the repair

Unplug the washer from the wall outlet.
Turn off both water supply valves to reduce the risk of leaks while you work around the cabinet.
Wear cut-resistant gloves because sheet metal edges under the console can be sharp.
Gather a drill or driver with a 1/4 inch hex driver, a putty knife, tape, and a small flathead screwdriver.
Keep needle-nose pliers nearby in case a wire connector is tight.

Step 2 Remove the rear and side screws to free the console area

Use a 1/4 inch hex driver to remove the screws across the back of the washer to expose the control area.
Locate the lid lock harness at the back of the washer near the control area.
Use a 1/4 inch hex driver to remove the screw on each side of the cabinet near the console seam to loosen the cabinet top.
Remove the additional small metal cover piece by the power cord and pressure hose if your model has one.
Apply tape across the lid and top panel to keep the lid from flopping open if the washer gets tilted or rocked.

Step 3 Open the console

Insert a putty knife under the left front corner of the console seam and push straight in until you feel or hear a click.
Roll the putty knife handle upward to pop the console loose.
Repeat the release on the right front corner of the console.
Rock the console back to expose the wiring and harness connections.
Note: The console is held by spring clips under the two front corners, and the putty knife releases each clip from the seam.

Step 4 Disconnect the lid lock harness at the control

Trace the lid lock wiring to the upper right corner of the control area and unplug the connector.
Disconnect the three-prong connector in the harness path.
Use needle-nose pliers if a connector won’t pull free by hand.
Set the console back onto the washer and press it down until it clicks into the clips.

Step 5 Remove the washer lid assembly

Lift the lid and slide it forward.
Lift the lid upward and guide it back toward the rear of the washer to free it.
Set the lid in a stable position so the lid lock opening is fully accessible.

Step 6 Release and remove the old lid lock

Use a small flathead screwdriver to reach into the gap by the lid lock and press the release tab back.
Pry upward while holding the tab released to pop the lid lock out of the top panel.
Remove the lid lock assembly from the opening.
Note: Some wider putty knives and paint scrapers won’t fit into the lid lock gap on this newer style.

Step 7 Install the new lid lock W11307244

Transfer the lid lock harness connection from the old assembly to the new assembly.
Insert the new lid lock into the opening starting on the right side.
Push the lock down so the white striker housing sits fully seated.
Slide the assembly to the left until it locks into place.
Note: This newer lid lock style snaps in and doesn’t use mounting screws like many older designs.
Note: Orientation reference is “insert on the right, slide to the left” to engage the snap features.

Step 8 Reconnect the harness and refit the lid

Reconnect the lid lock harness plugs at the control area, including the three-prong connector.
Reinstall the washer lid by positioning it forward, lowering it down, and sliding it back until it seats.
Press the console down to confirm it’s clipped in place before testing.

Step 9 Fix a lid striker that won’t drop into the new lock

Plug the washer back in so the lid lock can actuate during the fit procedure.
Lift the lid so you can access the lid striker area.
Press down on the lid striker while holding up on the bar by the lid lock to trick the washer into thinking the lid is open.
Start a cycle while keeping steady pressure on the lid lock and striker area.
Listen for the lid lock to engage, and let the striker settle into the correct position once the lock actuates.
Lower the lid and confirm the washer recognizes the lid as locked.

Step 10 Reinstall screws and remove the tape

Unplug the washer again before reinstalling exterior screws.
Reinstall any rear screws and the two side screws that were removed to loosen the cabinet top.
Reinstall the optional metal cover near the power cord and pressure hose if your model used one.
Remove the tape securing the lid.

Conclusion

Restore power and run a brief test cycle to confirm the lid locks and unlocks normally and the striker enters the latch cleanly. If the lid still won’t lock, recheck that the new lid lock is slid fully left into its snap position and that all harness plugs, including the three-prong connector, are fully seated.