How To Manually Unlock A Front loader Kenmore HE3 Washer

Hi there. This topic addresses the dreaded failed locking mechanism issue in most front-loader units. During long term usage, the door locking mechanisms will depreciate, over time. This will cause the mechanism to fail. When this occurs, the unit may become unstable, thus, preventing the user from removing the loaded garments. This state will suspend the locking mechanism. The door will, essentially, become stuck in the locked position. In an ordinary situation like this, most users will panic. I will instruct you on how to release the door, when this type of failure occurs. The manual unlocking procedure will allow you to release the door, so that you will be able to remove your loaded garments. You will also find a stored tech sheet, which will describe all the trouble codes needed, during diagnosis procedures in the future.

Be sure to use caution when performing this procedure.

First, you must unplug the machine. Next, remove the lower front panel. You will need a star-head driver, which you can get at your local hardware store. It requires a small screw driver. I used an interchangeable handle with swappable parts to match the right size head. You can find my set at Lowe's, or home depot, as well.

The three star-head screws are located along the bottom of the panel. If the washer is sitting on the optional pedestal, be sure to pull the drawer out before proceeding. Then unscrew each of the screws and place them in a plastic bag. This will insure that the screws are not misplaced.

The front panel is now attached by pressure to the rest of the washer.This is achieved by retaining clips. You may use a slim tool to pry open the panel. Cover the end with a thin paper towel to avoid scratching the paint on the washer, or duct tape. Insert the thin end low in the gap between the washer and the panel, and gently twist until the side pops off. Do both sides of the front panel.

Now, once the panel has been removed, look to the right on the side of the inner wall of the washer. There you will find the lost manual pages intended to help the tech interpret error code and fix conditions. It also contains instructions on how to manually unlock the door. I would advise to store the tech sheet with the actual manual that was shipped with your unit. this is where the sheet belongs, don't you agree?

Once you have complete access to the inside of your unit, Look up in the inside where the latch for the door closes. You will see a small plastic black box. Pull the bottom end straight down. Then, open the door.


NOTE_ This procedure is valid for most whirlpool duet units, as well. Use caution when performing this procedure. Always unplug the unit before dissembling the structure. Have a great day:)