Dryer Won't Start When You Push the Button? Whirlpool Start Switch WP3395385 – Fix Dryer Start Failures Fast

If your dryer drum is loaded, the door is latched, and the cycle is selected — but nothing happens when you push the start button — the start switch is the most common cause. In most Whirlpool-built dryers, the start switch sends the signal to begin the motor and heating cycle. When it fails, the dryer appears completely dead at the push of a button despite having full power. ⚡ Common failure point in Whirlpool-built residential dryers across the LER, LGR, TEDS, TGDS, and IJ series. Part WP3395385 is the genuine OEM replacement that restores normal start function in a direct plug-in swap.

❓ Is This the Right Part?

This is the correct fix if ALL of the following are true:

• ✔ Dryer has power — display or timer lights up, drum light works
• ✔ Door latch is functioning and door switch tests OK
• ✔ Thermal fuse and high-limit thermostat test OK (not blown)
• ✔ Drive motor tests OK or hums briefly when start is pressed
• ✔ ONLY problem is dryer does not respond when the start button is pressed

Not sure? Send us your model number — we'll confirm before you order.

🔧 Common Symptoms

• Dryer won't start — push button does nothing, no hum, no drum movement
• Dryer starts only when button is held at a specific angle or pressure
• Start button feels loose, mushy, or has no tactile click
• Dryer starts intermittently — works sometimes, fails others
• No error codes displayed — dryer simply does not respond to start input
• Dryer stops mid-cycle if start button is accidentally bumped

✔ If these symptoms match, the start switch is the most likely failed component in the system.

✔ In most cases, replacing this start switch restores normal dryer operation immediately.

📦 Part Details

• Part Number: WP3395385
• Type: Dryer Start Switch — four-terminal push-to-start momentary contact switch for cycle initiation
• Replaces: 3395385, 3395384
• Supersession Chain: 3395384 → 3395385 → WP3395385 (discontinued — no confirmed OEM substitute)
• Availability Note: WP3395385 has been discontinued by Whirlpool with no confirmed OEM replacement. Tested used and remaining new-old-stock units are the practical replacement options.
• Brands: Whirlpool, Kenmore, Estate, Roper

⚙️ Installation

Skill Level: EASY — 15–20 minutes. Disconnect power at the wall or breaker before beginning. Remove the control panel screws to access the start switch, disconnect the wire terminals (photograph positions first), press the new switch into the panel opening until it clicks, reconnect terminals, and reassemble. No soldering required — direct plug-in replacement.

✓ Compatible Models

Confirmed compatible with 8BLGR5636JQ0, 8BLGR5636JQ1, 8LGR5636FQ0, 8LGR5636FQ1, IJ72000, IJ72001, IJ72003, IJ82001, IJ82002, LER5636EZ01, LER5636EZ3, TEDS740JQ2, TGDS740JQ2, YLER5635JQ1 plus additional Whirlpool-built dryer models. Contact us to verify your model number before ordering.

💡 Pro Tip

✓ Model-Specific Repair Pages