Buyers typically pay a mix of parts and labor for Kenmore washer control board replacements. The main cost drivers are the replacement part price, labor hours, and any needed diagnostics or subsequent repairs. The price range reflects common models and regional labor rates.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Control Board Part | $60 | $110 | $180 | OEM or compatible, model-dependent |
| Labor & Diagnostic | $70 | $140 | $230 | 1–2 hours typical; varies by access |
| Additional Parts | $5 | $25 | $60 | Fuses, connectors, harnesses if needed |
| Travel/Service Call | $0 | $25 | $60 | Local service areas may add |
| Estimated Total | $135 | $260 | $530 | All-in, before tax |
Assumptions: region, model year, access, and needed diagnostics.
Overview Of Costs
Cost estimates for replacing a Kenmore washer control board typically fall in the following ranges: a low around $135, a common average near $260, and a high near $530 depending on parts and labor. Per-unit pricing for the control board itself is usually $60–$180, while labor and diagnostics add $70–$230. Warranty status can affect the total if the unit is under coverage.
In most scenarios, a repair is more economical than replacing the entire washer when the control board failure is isolated and the drum and motor are healthy. For older units, consider component wear beyond the control board in a full diagnostic.
Cost Breakdown
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $60 | $110 | $180 | Control board, potential adapters |
| Labor | $70 | $140 | $230 | Technician time, typically 1–2 hours |
| Equipment | $0 | $10 | $20 | Tools or testing gear, often included |
| Permits | $0 | $0 | $0 | No permit required for consumer repair |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0 | $5 | $15 | Tray, packaging, or old board disposal |
| Warranty | $0 | $0 | $0 | Ask about parts/labor warranty |
| Contingency | $0 | $10 | $25 | Unforeseen fixes or updates |
| Taxes | $0 | $0 | $0 | Depends on locale |
Pricing Variables
The key price drivers for a Kenmore control board replacement include model compatibility, SEER-equivalent or control type specifics, and the appliance’s accessibility. Board compatibility with the exact Kenmore model is critical, as is the labor rate in the technician’s region. Typical regional labor prices range by market: urban areas may see higher rates than suburban or rural markets.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Labor costs depend on the technician’s hourly rate and the time required to access and test the control board. A standard replacement usually takes 1–2 hours; in tighter cabinet layouts or with older wiring, it can stretch longer. Expect $70–$230 in labor charges depending on locale and difficulty.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary across three broad U.S. regions. In coastal urban markets, expect the higher end of ranges; in Midwest suburban areas, mid-range pricing is common; in rural markets, lower labor rates can reduce totals. Regional delta approximations: Urban +15–25%, Suburban baseline, Rural −10–20%.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Basic scenario: 1) OEM board, 2) standard access, 3) no add-ons. Specs: model compatible board, 1 hour labor. Parts $80, Labor $100, Total ≈ $180.
Mid-Range scenario: aftermarket board, moderate access, diagnostic test included. Specs: $110 parts, $150 labor, Total ≈ $270.
Premium scenario: OEM board, tight access, extra wiring harness, expedited service. Specs: $180 parts, $230 labor, Total ≈ $410.
Assumptions: region, model year, access, diagnostic extent.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Some service calls include a diagnostic fee even if the repair is not completed. In homes with hard-to-reach panels or large appliances, access fees can add $20–$60. Hidden costs may appear as required tests or post-repair calibration.
What Drives Price
Two niche-specific drivers: (1) control board type (OEM vs. aftermarket) and (2) compatibility with model-specific firmware or diagnostic ports. For Kenmore units, board part numbers must match the exact model family to ensure correct operation; otherwise, a mismatch can necessitate a second board replacement and added labor.
Ways To Save
- Ask for a diagnostic-only visit first to confirm failure mode before replacing parts.
- Check if your washer is still under a parts warranty that covers the board.
- Request pricing for OEM vs. aftermarket boards and compare relative reliability.
- Combine service with a routine maintenance visit if due, to minimize travel charges.
