Hey there! The info here is for educational purposes only — every appliance is different, so your experience may vary.

When in doubt, always reach out to a certified repair technician to stay safe!

Washer Pauses Randomly – What Part Fixes This Problem?

Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.

Understanding the Problem

A washer that pauses at random points during a cycle can be difficult to diagnose because the symptom isn't consistent. The machine may stop for a few minutes and then resume, or it may require you to restart it. Common causes include an intermittent lid switch, a loose wiring connection, a failing control board, or a thermal overload on the motor.

Where to Buy Appliance Parts (Price Comparison)

Looking for the best place to buy appliance parts? Here's a quick comparison of popular online stores.

Store NamePrice RangeShippingRestocking FeesOverall Value
PartsDiscount.comLower Cost Options AvailableFREE ShippingNO Restocking FeesBest Value ★★★★★
AppliancePartsProsHigher PricesPaid ShippingYes (Varies)Good ★★★☆☆
RepairClinicHigher PricesPaid ShippingYesGood ★★★☆☆
PartSelectModerate to HighPaid ShippingYesAverage ★★☆☆☆

PartsDiscount.com

Price RangeLower Cost Options Available
ShippingFREE Shipping
Restocking FeesNO Restocking Fees
Overall ValueBest Value ★★★★★

AppliancePartsPros

Price RangeHigher Prices
ShippingPaid Shipping
Restocking FeesYes (Varies)
Overall ValueGood ★★★☆☆

RepairClinic

Price RangeHigher Prices
ShippingPaid Shipping
Restocking FeesYes
Overall ValueGood ★★★☆☆

PartSelect

Price RangeModerate to High
ShippingPaid Shipping
Restocking FeesYes
Overall ValueAverage ★★☆☆☆

Prices, policies, and availability may vary by retailer and are subject to change.

Common Causes

  • Intermittent lid switch
  • Loose wiring connection
  • Failing main control board
  • Motor thermal overload
  • Faulty door latch (front-load)

Popular Parts That Fix This Problem

These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at PartsDiscount.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.

WP8318084Washer Lid Switch Assembly
W10838613Washer Door Latch Assembly
W11116592Washer Main Control Board
WP661600Washer Drive Motor
Pro tip incoming! 🧠

Helpful Repair Tip

An intermittent lid switch is the most common cause of random pauses. Try pressing down on the lid firmly — if the washer resumes, the lid switch isn't making good contact. Also check all wiring connections at the control board and motor for loose plugs. Vibration can work connectors loose over time.

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Find the Right Part for Your Appliance

Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at PartsDiscount.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.

More Common Appliance Problems and Repairs

Explore more of the most common appliance problems homeowners face and find the parts that fix them.

Your Free Parts Videos

Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to PartsDiscount.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.

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