Whirlpool Top Loader Washing Machine Broken Latch

Our Whirlpool top loading washing machine (model WTW8127LW) refused to run with the message “Close the lid” (even though the lid was closed). Upon closer inspection, we found the latch (a.k.a. the strike) had broken.

How to Fix

Thanks to this video from repairclinic.com it became we clear we needed to order a replacement W11457841 Washing Machine Door Strike (we’d been using the wrong term “latch” when searching for information).

Temporary Fix

While we waited for the new Whirlpool washing machine door strike to arrive, we were able to use a piece of tape to create a temporary handle on the strike and manually insert it to run the washing machine.

I do not recommend doing this.

Side note: We ordered an extra door strike and now have a backup.

Sal Ferrarello (@salcode)

Sal is a PHP and JavaScript developer with a focus on the WordPress platform. He is a conference speaker with a background including Piano Player, Radio DJ, Magician/Juggler, Beach Photographer, and High School Math Teacher. Sal can be found professionally at WebDevStudios, where he works as a principal engineer.