Washer lid sensor

I would say that the lock has failed. Either the lock itself or maybe the pin or latch that fits into it when you close the door may have cracked / broken. If the machine thinks the door / lid is still open, it wont let you start it.

Sounds like lid is locking so that part is most likely good. The lid lock plugs directly into main control in console. Sensors are found in mode shift actuator or hall sensor depending on model. I would try replacing sensor first since it is least expensive. And then control if sensor is not problem.

I put this answer in the comments but re-posting here because I didn't know what I was doing : )
The Magic Chef 2.1 cu ft Portable washer manual says that its a door malfunction and the solution is to open and close the door. That did not work for me so if you're having the same issue that I am it may be that your washer is not level. I had placed mine on top of a few folded throw rugs to stifle noise (I live in an apt, on the second floor) and the rugs were uneven. As soon as i adjusted them, the washer began to work again. I hope this helps.

Check door switch: If the lid switch is bad it will not drain or spin. Try this test: With lid open let it finish wash cycle. Press lid switch down with screwdriver. Washer should begin draining. Release switch. Motor should stop. Press switch a second time. Washer should start spinning as it continues to drain. If motor doesn't come on while lid switch is pressed, replace the switch. OR
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q942xn_2VXY
Pl click if helped.

Kenmore top load washer 21302, the sensor light is on and the lid lock light is on with a clicking noise. What could be wrong with it and how do I fix it?

It could be a lid sensor issue, due to the fact that pressing on the door seem to temporarily fix the problem. Then again, honestly im really not familiar with washers that old, so i don't even know if it would have a lid sensor, much like older cars don't have seat belts, so im not exactly sure when they started introducing lid safety switches on washers. In any case, i would try and check for a lid switch/sensor and if so, try finding a replacement for it.

I had the same problem.... There was a part that I had to replace lid sensor. Aparently, the lid sensor was bent and it was telling the washer that the lid was still up. I has an appliance repair persn to fix it, and the bad news was, it was expensive $150.

hi thanks for the question you say you activated the washer with screw driver . is the striker on the lid there ,.you could have a broken striker. check that if its there . replace the lid switch the appliance doc

If you still require assistance, follow these instructions. If you open and close the lid, you should hear a "clicking" sound as the lid switch is activated. If you do not hear the switch, check to make sure the lid strike in still intact. This is a small plastic piece mounted on the lid that pushes down on the switch through a slot on the wash tub opening on the right hand side. If this piece breaks off, it will give the same symptoms of a broken lid switch. Next, check the two mounting screws on the right side of the wash tub opening to make sure they are tight. These are the mounting screws for the lid switch. Sometimes they come loose and the switch does not make proper contact. If you attempt all these preliminaries, and the switch still does not seem to be working properly, replace it. A replacement can be found at searspartsdirect.com. Just type in your model number and the part will be located under the "Top and Cabinet" heading. For instructions on how to replace a lid switch, click on the following link:

http://www.fixya.com/support/r385198-replacing_lid_switch

I hope this helps you. If you require assistance in locating parts, or need further advice, please let me know.

The problem is the SENSOR switch under the top of washer where the lid closes , it could be loose or dirty , simple to fix , hopes this helps AJ