How to Install a Jumper Wire to Bypass the Lid Switch on a Whirlpool Washer

Once installed, the jumper will make the washer think that the lid is closed, allowing you to perform a complete diagnostic while the lid is open. Other than the obvious dangers of running a washing machine with the lid open, this is not a difficult process.

1. Remove the two Phillips-head screws from the front corners of the control panel. Pull the control panel slightly forward, and then flip it up over the back of the washer. Let the control panel hang by its hinges.

2. Locate the lid-switch connector on the top of the washer body, under the control panel. It is the only connector that goes into the top of the washer body. Squeeze the locking tab on the harness and pull it out of the connector.

3. Insert a jumper wire into the lid-switch connector that attaches to the control panel. The connector has two wires attached to it, one violet and one gray. Bridge these two wires by inserting the bare ends of a jumper wire into the connector. You can now operate the washer through a full cycle.

4. Remove the jumper wire, and connect the lid-switch harness after completing the diagnostic of the washer.

5. Flip the control panel forward, and push it slightly back to seat it against the rear panel of the washer. Install and tighten the two Phillips-head screws in the front corners of the control panel.