Dryer Front Panel is Broken? Replace it in 15 Minutes!

Unplug the dryer from the power source and disconnect other supplies. Then, remove the door from the front load dryer before detaching the panel. Unscrew the door hinges to remove the door and carefully place it aside. Now, unbolt or unscrew the old panel and replace it with the new part.

How does the dryer front panel wear out?

Wear-outs to the front panel can be caused due to multiple factors such as corrosion, accidental dents, or multiple scratches over its surface.

Dented or worn-out outer panels may not have any impact on the overall functionality of the dryer. However, it may affect the overall look of your appliance and may make it look old.

When should you replace the front panel on your dryer?

Replacing the front panel is mostly a cosmetic repair.

You may choose to replace the panel if it is severely worn out or damaged.

In most cases, your dryer will function without any issues even if the front panel is dented or scratched.

However, if the damage is severe, it’s wise to get it replaced.

How to replace the front panel in a dryer?

Here are the steps you’ll need to take in order to replace the front panel of your dryer.

Step 1: Unplug the dryer

Unplug the dryer and disconnect all other supplies, including vent hoses and gas supplies (for gas dryers).

If required, move the dryer away from the back wall.

Step 2: Detach the door 

You will need to detach the door from the front panel to fix the replacement panel.

Start by unscrewing the door hinges, and make sure to have someone hold the door during this process.

Once the door is unscrewed, carefully place it aside.

Step 3: Unbolt or unscrew the old panel

Now, find the screws that hold the old panel in place.

There are usually four of them, located at the corners of the panel.

Unscrew the screws or bolts that hold the panel in place, then lift it off.

Finally, place the old panel and its retaining screws aside.

Note: Gently pull the panel away from the dryer and be careful not to damage the wires that connect the panel to the dryer.

Step 4: Prepare the new panel

If necessary, remove any protective film or tape from the new panel.

Step 5: Install the replacement panel 

Align the replacement front panel in its place.

Screw or bolt the panel according to its fixture.

Make sure to reconnect the electrical wires properly.

Step 6: Fix the door 

Lift the door and place it in its proper position.

Tighten the screws to fix the hinge bracket firmly.

Check if the door closes properly.

Also, ensure that the door latch is in place and aligned like before.

Step 7: Test the dryer

Test your dryer by running a normal load of laundry and seeing if everything is working as expected.

Replace Top load Dryer Panels

• Depending on the make and model, the top panel of a top-load dryer may or may not need to be removed.
• In case it requires disassembling the upper panel then first remove the control panel followed by the door.
• Do not forget to disconnect or reconnect the running electrical wires throughout the process.

Final Thoughts

The front panel of your dryer is easy to replace, and you don’t need any special skills to do it.

It’s just that you need to figure out the screws that hold the panel in place and follow the instructions accordingly.

Simply get the right replacement part, locate the screws, unscrew it, get the old panel off, and screw on the new one.

In most cases, it just takes around 30 minutes to less than an hour to get the job done.

For any confusion on replacing the front panel, contact a service professional for help.

Frequently Asked Questions