GE Washer – Intermittently Stops Working and Starts Sanitize Cycle by Itself – Troubleshooting Guide

Problem:

GE washer randomly stops during normal operation and/or starts the Sanitize cycle on its own, without user input.

Possible Causes:

1. Faulty or stuck control panel buttons (esp. “Sanitize” or “Cycle Select”)

2. Intermittent user interface (UI) board failure

3. Moisture, corrosion, or loose connection in UI or main control board

4. Power supply instability (voltage fluctuations)

5. Software glitch or corrupted cycle memory

6. Control board misinterpreting button signals (phantom presses)

Tools Required:

• Screwdriver

• Multimeter

• Flashlight

• Rubbing alcohol + cotton swab (for cleaning contacts)

Step-by-Step Procedure:

1. Perform a Hard Reset

• Unplug the washer from power for 5 minutes.

• Plug back in and observe behavior.

• If issue is gone temporarily but returns later, suspect UI or software.

2. Inspect Control Panel for Stuck Buttons

• Gently press all buttons, especially “Sanitize”, to check for:

  • Physical sticking

  • No tactile click

  • Repeated activation without pressure

• If any button is physically stuck or damaged, replace the UI board.

3. Run a Diagnostic Mode (Error Check)

• For top-load models:

  1. Unplug the washer.

  2. Plug it back in.

  3. Within 30 seconds, rotate the cycle knob as follows:
     Left → Right → Right → Right → Left → Right

  4. Washer will enter diagnostics mode and flash stored fault codes.

• For front-load or touch models, refer to service manual or use button combo like Power + Start or Start + Delayfor 3–5 seconds.

• Look for error codes related to:

  • Control input errors

  • UI communication failures

  • Button faults

4. Inspect and Clean UI Board Connection

• Disconnect power.

• Remove control panel housing (usually a few screws at rear or front).

• Disconnect ribbon cables from UI board and main control board.

• Clean contacts with rubbing alcohol and a soft cloth or swab.

• Reseat connectors firmly.

5. Check for Water or Moisture Intrusion

• Examine UI board and cable connections for:

  • Corrosion

  • Signs of water drip (from dispenser, humidity, or leaking gasket)

  • Rust or green discoloration on contacts

• Dry all affected areas and clean as needed.

6. Check Incoming Power Quality

• Use a multimeter to test outlet for stable 120V AC.

• Avoid shared power strips or long extension cords.

• Fluctuating voltage can cause software glitches or false triggering.

7. Replace UI or Main Control Board If Needed

• Replace UI board if button malfunction or ghost commands persist.

• Replace main control board if washer still behaves erratically despite known good UI.

Notes:

• This issue is commonly caused by moisture-damaged UI boards or buttons stuck due to wear.

• On some models, firmware updates (via technician tools) may address phantom cycle selection.

• If washer is under warranty, contact GE for authorized service.