[Sarah Schell]

My Maytag dryer was set in auto mode last night and was started before bed. It was still running when we got out of bed this morning. I think the moisture sensor is shot. How difficult is it to replace? Are there some step by step instructions available somewhere? The last time I tried to open up my dryer it was a major fiasco, but I had no instructions......

[rickdmclaughlin]

Originally Posted by Sarah Schell

My Maytag dryer was set in auto mode last night and was started before bed. It was still running when we got out of bed this morning. I think the moisture sensor is shot. How difficult is it to replace? Are there some step by step instructions available somewhere? The last time I tried to open up my dryer it was a major fiasco, but I had no instructions......

It may not be what you think it is. The same thing happened to me the other day with my whirlpool so I stopped using the auto mode. Then, I noticed my clothes weren't drying at all. I popped out the element and viola! it was bad. I'm ordering a new one, but I'm sure auto mode will iron itself out once I replace it.....unless my moisture sensor is shot and the element burning out was a symptom of that.......now look what you've done!!! back to the utility closet.....

[kliet123]

I had the same problem and found the fabric softener sheets leave a residue behind and this gets baked on over time blocking the signal from the moisture sensor. This can be cleaned using scotch brite pads or fine sandpaper. Locate the two parralel metal strips inside the drum and polish them with the sandpaper. This should fix the problem. If you still need to open the cover for some other reason insert a credit card between the top and the front cover about 3 inches from the corner to release a spring clip and lift up. There is a clip on both front corners. The top will pivot up. There are two screws inside (one at each corner) to release the front cover.