Burning smell I get a burning smell (smells like burning rubber) that appears to be coming from behind the control panel. This just started today after a load of towels. The dryer works, but the smell made me think that it's on it's way out. I unplugged it for now, and will watch it closely in the future.

hi Alyson.
this is what i found on the internet.
WHAT'S CAUSING A BURNING SMELL IN YOUR WASHING MACHINE? If you notice a burning smell in your washing machine, the cause could be any number of things. Regardless, this is one smell you shouldn't ignore. It's important to quickly diagnose the problem and find the solution.
The Burning Belt Smell Many top loaders are direct drive. This means they do not use a belt. The motor is directly connected to the transmission.
In Whirlpool and Kenmore models there is a rubber coupler between the motor and transmission that takes much abuse. It's very common for the fingers or the rubber itself on the coupler to break. A clicking noise with no spin or agitation along with a slight rubber smell are symptoms of this problem.?DIY repair is possible. Older models may also have belts that can be tighted or replaced
The new Whirlpool or Maytag washer can often be fixed without calling for repair.
To work on a top load HE washer pull the empty unit away from the wall. Drape a small rug or towel over the control to minimize damage to the wall and the panel. Lean the unit against the wall and the bottom will be clearly visible. Lie on the floor and note if there are rubber pieces or shavings under the washer. The belt may be rubbing against a plastic guard attached to the motor. The solution is actually quite simple: If the belt is shredded or worn you need to replace it. You can call a repair person or, if your washer is under warranty, the manufacturer. Or, if you or someone you know is handy, you can do it yourself!
Electrical Problems If your washer smells. The first thing to do if you notice an electrical smell in your washing machine and not a rubber burning smell, is to unplug the machine and call the manufacturer or a repair person.
An electrical burning smell may also be caused by a water leak coming into contact with electrical wiring. Both are major concerns and should be addressed immediately. A water leak can cause structural damage in your home and can short out the electrical wiring in your washer and cause additional damage to the machine.

Other Causes

Another more likely cause of a burning smell in your washer is overloading. Adding too many clothes to your washing machine can stress the motor or transmission, causing them to overheat or malfunction and emit a burning smell. For top load washers, overloading can cause the agitator to freeze or malfunction, stressing the drive belt and causing friction, which could emit a burning rubber smell.
To prevent overloading, know the size of your washer. They are measured in cubic feet. In addition, know how many towels, pants, shirts, and other items you can safely load. When it doubt, do smaller loads. Not only will this prevent overstressing the machine, it will also ensure clothes are thoroughly cleaned and rinsed.
or go to this link might help you to find out more.

washing machine has smell of melted rubber and found black bits on the...

You have something between inner and outer tub remove top cover smell coming from air vents of outer tub then that is were it is
fun job its has to come all apart

Burning rubber smell indicates that you must have a worn out belt that is starting to slip making the burnt rubber smell. I think you need to replace at least one belt, maybe more upon inspection of the rest.

Possible item caught between basket and outer tub. Remove the front panel and tub top ring. Shine a bright light around the semi-transparent tub and look for item. Check the pump pulley - ride the belt off and spin it by hand. If you feel any resistance or grinding replace the pump.

Certainly could be a pinched wire in the door panel. I would remove the panel and see if anything is pinched or being interfered with like the rinse dispenser solenoid.

Dave

if it smell's like rubber it likley is .. smell's like a belt driven and it needs a replacment belt & idler .. remove the two screws at the bottom of front panel an remove .. in the front center at the bottom .is the motor / belt and pump .. if there is black rubber in bottom / wala . the belt is burning . / look for pump leakage / this would get belt wet and slip.. thanks mm .

The motor may be burned out or there may be another electrical issue which would also cause the symptoms you describe. Call around and try to get an estimate, and at the same time look at new ones on sale.............one question is how secure will u feel with that maching......now that it has acted up like this.

first is first ,,, disconnect dryer from plug,, now open bottom panel 2 screws ,, now go and get youre vaccum,shop vac, anything ,, reason for burning smell ,, usually catching on fire ,, we recommend do this 1 as year,,, after cleaning , put about 2-3 fabric sheets inside dryer and let it runn for about 30 minutes to remive smoke from drum,,, thank you

needs a new pressure switch located in control panel are the small rubber hose going from the switch to the tub has a pin hole in it

You have to investigate where the burning smell came from. Start at the timer and then check the main board. Also check the drain pump.