Buyers typically pay a mix of parts, labor, and service call fees when replacing a Kenmore washer control board. The main cost drivers are board type (OEM vs aftermarket), model year, and whether additional components or diagnostics are needed. Cost awareness helps compare quotes and avoid surprise charges.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Control Board (OEM) | $210 | $320 | $520 | Model-specific part; higher for newer or high-end models |
| Control Board (Aftermarket) | $150 | $250 | $400 | Often lower warranty coverage |
| Labor & Diagnostic | $120 | $180 | $280 | Includes diagnostics and installation time |
| Service Call Fee | $60 | $90 | $120 | Some regions waive with same-day repair |
| Additional Parts (Harness, connectors) | $20 | $60 | $120 | Could be needed for compatibility |
| Total Range | $560 | $1,000 | $1,440 | Estimates vary by model and region |
Assumptions: region, Kenmore model, warranty status, and technician availability.
Overview Of Costs
The typical project ranges for replacing a Kenmore washer control board span $560 to $1,440, depending on the exact board, labor rates, and any needed ancillary parts. Most customers fall in the $900–$1,200 range when opting for an OEM board with standard labor. For those choosing aftermarket boards or smaller service areas, costs can cluster toward the lower end. The per-unit price for the control board itself usually runs $150–$520, while labor plus diagnostics commonly adds $180–$280. When a service call is required, the combined bill can push toward the higher end of the spectrum.
Cost Breakdown
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $150 | $260 | $520 | Includes control board and any needed harnesses |
| Labor | $120 | $180 | $280 | Clocked by 1 technician; typical 1–3 hours |
| Diagnostics | $0 | $40 | $80 | Often bundled with labor; may vary by shop |
| Service Call | $60 | $90 | $120 | Distance-based or minimum visit fee |
| Permits & Codes | $0 | $0 | $0 | Typically not required for residential washer repair |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0 | $20 | $60 | If old board is disposed separately |
Assumptions: model compatibility confirmed; region varies for hourly rates
What Drives Price
Board type and compatibility are the primary price levers. An OEM Kenmore control board that precisely matches the model will cost more than an aftermarket equivalent. The exact model year and series matter; newer designs with added features or microcontrollers typically command higher prices. Labor costs and travel time also shift the total; urban areas commonly see higher hourly rates and longer wait times. If diagnostic steps reveal a non-communication fault on the main PCB or a damaged wiring harness, price rises to cover additional parts and more labor.
Common drivers include the control board’s logic processor type, number of channels, and whether a motherboard-style assembly includes related components. Warranty status can cut costs if the repair is covered under a home appliance plan or a parts warranty, while out-of-pocket expenses rise without coverage.
Ways To Save
Compare OEM and aftermarket boards to determine whether the price delta is justified by warranty and longevity. In some regions, technicians offer bundled diagnostic and installation labor discounts that reduce the overall spend. If a source provides a same-day replacement, ask about a bundled service fee waiver. A minimal approach—replacing only the necessary boards or fixing a faulty harness—can reduce material costs. Request written estimates that itemize parts and hours to avoid surprise charges at the end.
Regional Price Differences
Pricing varies by region due to labor markets and shipping costs. In the Northeast, service calls and labor rates often exceed the national average, while the Midwest tends to be more affordable. The West Coast typically shows higher board prices due to carrier costs and parts availability. Rural areas may offer lower hourly rates but longer travel times, offsetting savings. Expect a regional delta of roughly ±15% to ±25% from the national middle, depending on city size and service provider network.
Labor & Installation Time
Typical installation time for a replacement control board is around 1–3 hours. Labor rates commonly range from $70 to $150 per hour, with some shops charging a flat diagnostic or service call fee. Heavier markup occurs when a technician must dismantle multiple panels or test the board’s function with specialized tools. If repeated trips are needed due to intermittent faults, the total cost can rise significantly.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate how costs can shift with board type and job complexity.
Basic scenario: OEM board, standard labor, single trip, no harness replacement. Specs: 1 model year, standard 2–3 hour window. Parts: $210; Labor: $140; Service: $70; Total: $420.
Mid-Range scenario: Aftermarket board, labor plus diagnostics, minor harness swap. Specs: newer model year, 1–2 extra hours for testing. Parts: $160; Labor: $190; Diagnostics: $40; Service: $90; Total: $480.
Premium scenario: OEM board with expanded warranty, multiple harness repairs, on-site service in a high-cost market. Specs: complex model, 4 hours on-site. Parts: $320; Labor: $260; Diagnostics: $60; Service: $110; Total: $750.
Assumptions: region, model compatibility, and labor hours.