Diagnosing and Repairing Amana Washing Machines

Overview

• Presentation by Chip
• Focus: Diagnosing and repairing Amana washing machines (and similar models)
• Applicable to machines with a large timer cycle knob and six LED lights
• DIY approach using common household tools

Tools Needed

• Common household tools
• Service manual (found inside the washer)
• Masking or duct tape (optional for securing the lid)

Finding the Service Manual

• Likely taped to the inside top left corner of the washing machine
• Sealed inside a plastic bag, glued to the cabinet
• Steps to access it:
  • Remove two screws from the back of the machine
  • Remove wiring harness and pressure hooks cover
  • Slide top forward ~2 inches and lift front edge while wiggling
  • Keep lid secure to prevent it from flying open (use tape if necessary)
  • Retrieve the manual

Entering Diagnostic Mode

• Refer to page 2 of the manual
• Ensure machine is in standby mode (all LEDs off)
• Steps to enter diagnostic mode:
  • Turn cycle selection dial counterclockwise any number of detents, stop at 12 o'clock
  • Turn dial clockwise three clicks, stop at 3 o'clock
  • Turn dial counterclockwise one click, stop at 2 o'clock
  • Turn dial clockwise one click, stop at 3 o'clock
  • If successful: all LEDs except lid lock will flash
  • If unsuccessful: repeat the steps with a half-second pause between clicks

Entering Manual Test Mode

• Refer to page 4 of the manual
• Steps to enter manual test mode:
  • Turn dial clockwise until Spin and Done LEDs are on (2nd and 3rd light from the right)
  • Press Start button, all LEDs will go out
  • Follow instructions for sequential testing

System Tests

Lid Lock Test

• Press Start button (lid should lock, red LED illuminates)
• If LEDs flash: lid lock failed (replace it)
• To cancel: press Start button again

Cold Water Valve Test

• Turn dial clockwise one click (Done LED should illuminate)
• Open lid, press Start button (observe water flow)
  • If insufficient water: valve may be plugged or faulty (replace or clean)
• Stop water flow: press Start button again

Hot Water Valve Test

• Turn dial clockwise again (Spin light should illuminate)
• Open lid, press Start button (observe water flow)
  • If insufficient water: valve may be plugged or faulty (replace or clean)
• Stop water flow: press Start button again

Drain Pump Test

• Turn dial clockwise five clicks (Rinse, Spin, Done LEDs illuminate)
• Press Start button to activate drain pump
  • If no draining: investigate drain pump issues (possible replacement)
• Stop draining: press Start button again

Spin and Agitate Functions

• Lock the lid: turn dial counterclockwise until all LEDs off, press Start button
• Turn dial clockwise back to test position
• Turn dial two clicks clockwise (Wash, Done, Lid Lock LEDs illuminate)
• Press Start button (enter low spin mode)
  • Observe machine (may take a minute to start)
  • Issues: possible faults in shift actuator or splutch mechanism
• If successful, move to agitation test after basket stops spinning
• Turn dial clockwise until Wash, Spin, Done LEDs illuminate
• Press Start button (observe agitation mode)
  • Issues: agitator and tub should move independently (if not, check shift actuator and splutch)

Common Issues and Fixes

• If all tests pass but issues persist, likely a control board problem
• Symptoms of control board issues:
  • Washer stops mid-cycle, refuses to advance
  • Water valves open after cycle completion
• Control board replacement may be costly compared to machine value

Conclusion

• Chip's YouTube channel offers more repair tutorials
• Encouragement to like and subscribe if the video was helpful