July 15, 2022

How to remove a GE front-load washer control panel and control board

Introduction image for article and video showing DIY step-by-step instructions for removing the control panel and main control board on a GE front-load washer.
Introduction image for article and video showing DIY step-by-step instructions for removing the control panel and main control board on a GE front-load washer.

You may need to replace the main control board in your GE front-load washer when you see the E57, E58 or E71 error codes on the control panel display. You may also need to replace the main control board after conducting the troubleshooting shown in the error code chart for other codes.

If you’re unsure whether the main control board needs replacing, have a Sears Technician visit your home to diagnose and repair your GE washer.

When you know that you need to replace the control panel or the main control board in your GE front-load washer, follow the step-by-step instructions in this video to complete the repair.

Here are the steps shown in the video.

  1. Unplug the washer to disconnect electrical power.

  2. Remove the 3 screws on the back of the front washer panel.

  3. Remove the 3 screws on the back of the control panel trim.

  4. Slide the detergent dispenser drawer out so you can remove the control panel trim.

  5. Lift the control panel trim off the top of the washer.

  6. Slide the top washer panel back and remove it from the washing machine.

  7. Remove the 4 control panel mounting screws.

  8. Slide the detergent dispenser drawer completely out. Press the dispenser lock lever down and remove the dispenser drawer from the washer.

  9. Remove the control panel mounting screw beside the detergent dispenser opening.

  10. Release the locking tabs across the top of the control panel and fold the control panel down.

  11. Disconnect the wires from the main control board.

  12. Place the control panel on a padded surface.

  13. Remove the cycle selector control knob.

  14. Remove the control board mounting screws.

  15. Release the control board locking tabs and remove the main control board from the control panel.

  16. Lift the button systems off the front of the main control board.

Reverse the procedure to install a new main control board or control panel on your GE front-load washing machine.

The washer shown in this video is GE front-load model WCVH6800J2WW. This repair procedure will work for many similar models of GE front-load washing machines.

If you're not completely confident that you can safely complete the procedures shown in this video, schedule a Sears Technician to visit your home and repair your GE washing machine.

Symptoms for front-load washers

Main causes: leaky water supply hoses, clogged drain system, torn door boot, cracked outer tub, overfilling…

Main causes: garments left in the washer, damaged spin basket, worn outer tub bearing, faulty drive motor, bad electroni…

Main causes: bad door lock assembly, wiring failure, bad electronic control board, drain system failure, bad water-level…

Repair guides for front-load washers

How to replace a motor control board on a front-load washer

How to replace a motor control board on a front-load washer

The motor control board makes sure the motor spins in the right direction and at the right speed. You can install a new …

Repair difficulty
Time required
 30 minutes or less
How to replace the machine control board in a front-load washer

How to replace the machine control board in a front-load washer

If the machine control board is completely dead or won't activate the washer components properly, replace it by followin…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 45 minutes or less
How to replace the drain pump on a front-load washer

How to replace the drain pump on a front-load washer

Follow these steps to replace the drain pump if it's not removing water from the washer.…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 45 minutes or less

Articles and videos for front-load washers

How to use your washing machine efficiently

How to use your washing machine efficiently

Find tips for using your washing machine efficiently to save energy and help reduce utility bills.…

How to enjoy all the online benefits we offer on our Sears PartsDirect website

How to enjoy all the online benefits we offer on our Sears PartsDirect website

Learn about all the convenient features on our Sears PartsDirect website that make your parts purchases easier.…

Cleaning the drain pump filter on a front-load washer with no access door video

Cleaning the drain pump filter on a front-load washer with no access door video

See how to access and clean the drain pump filter on a front-load washer without an access door.…