Dryer timer replacement typically costs $150-$350, including the part and service labor; a basic repair may be less, while an uncommon or high-priced timer can push the bill above $450. The dryer’s brand and model, timer type, local labor rate, and diagnostic or service-call fee are the main price drivers.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Timer part | $40 | $110 | $250 | Aftermarket or OEM part; model-specific |
| Labor | $75 | $140 | $250 | Usually 1-2 hours, including access and testing |
| Diagnostic or service call | $0 | $90 | $150 | May be waived or credited toward repair |
| Typical total | $120 | $250 | $450 | Before tax; access and parts availability affect price |
What a dryer timer replacement usually costs
A straightforward replacement on a common electric or gas dryer often totals $150-$350. That estimate generally assumes a standard mechanical timer, normal access, and a locally available part. Basic aftermarket timers can cost around $40-$90; brand-specific OEM parts commonly run $80-$250.
The total can exceed $450 if the timer is discontinued, requires special ordering, or is part of a more expensive electronic control assembly. Prices vary by region and service company, so a quote should identify whether it covers diagnosis, the timer, installation, and testing.
Assumptions: U.S. residential dryer, standard access, one replacement part, and no additional wiring or control-board repairs.
How timer parts and labor appear on the repair quote
Ask for a written breakdown rather than comparing total prices alone. A low part price may not include the diagnostic visit, while some companies combine the trip charge and labor into one repair fee.
| Quote item | Typical range | What can change it |
|---|---|---|
| Timer or control part | $40-$250 | OEM availability, model, and mechanical versus electronic type |
| Labor | $75-$250 | Hourly rate, access, and time spent diagnosing |
| Diagnostic or trip fee | $0-$150 | Company policy and distance to the home |
| Delivery or special order | $0-$40 | Shipping speed and local inventory |
| Taxes and incidentals | $0-$35 | Local tax rules and small wiring or connector needs |
For example, 1.5 labor hours at $100 per hour adds $150 before parts or fees.
Brand, timer type, and model number shift the price
Mechanical timers, which use a dial and internal contacts, are often less expensive than electronic controls, although the exact design depends on the dryer. Some electronic models use a control board rather than a separately replaceable timer. Confirm the failed component before authorizing a part swap.
Part prices can vary substantially between dryer models, even within one brand. A common timer may be available for $40-$100, while an OEM assembly for a less common model can cost $150-$250 or more. Parts for discontinued models may require used or refurbished components, with limited warranty coverage.
Provide the complete model number before requesting a parts estimate. It is usually on a label inside the door opening or around the door frame. That detail helps prevent quotes based on a similar but incompatible timer.
How much time does a technician need to replace it
When diagnosis is clear and the part is on hand, replacement often takes about 1-2 hours, including removing the console or control panel, installing the timer, and checking dryer operation. A technician may charge a minimum service amount even if hands-on work takes less than an hour.
A separate diagnosis can add $75-$150, though many companies apply that fee to the repair if the customer proceeds. A second visit may add another trip charge if the timer needs to be ordered. Ask whether the estimate includes both visits and whether the diagnostic fee is credited.
Timer repair compared with an electronic control replacement
A timer replacement is generally more economical when the timer is independently available and the dryer is otherwise in good condition. If the actual fault is a control board, the part alone may cost roughly $150-$400, and the complete repair can reach $250-$600 depending on labor and model.
Before approving either repair, compare the full quote with the cost of a replacement dryer. A repair near half the price of a comparable new machine may be harder to justify for an older dryer with other wear. Age alone does not prove the dryer needs replacement, but drum, motor, heating, and vent issues can make a timer repair part of a larger expense.
Have the technician verify the timer fault rather than assuming a stopped dial means the timer failed. Door switches, wiring, thermal fuses, and control components can produce symptoms that appear similar.
Three example quotes for common dryer repairs
These examples show how part price and service charges can produce different totals. Actual quotes depend on model, local rates, and whether diagnosis is billed separately.
| Scenario | Part | Labor and fees | Estimated total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic mechanical timer, common model | $60-$90 | 1 hour at $85-$110, plus $0-$90 diagnosis | $145-$290 |
| OEM timer, midrange dryer | $110-$180 | 1.5 hours at $90-$125, plus $75-$125 visit | $320-$493 |
| Hard-to-find timer, second visit | $180-$250 | 2 hours at $100-$140, plus $75-$150 service | $455-$680 |
Assumptions: Parts are available for the listed model; totals exclude unusual wiring repairs and sales tax.
Ways to lower a dryer timer repair bill
Check the model number and request the part price, labor, diagnostic charge, and any second-trip fee before scheduling. Compare at least two local quotes on the same scope, and ask whether the company uses an OEM or aftermarket timer and what warranty applies to each.
Keep the control area accessible and clear the dryer’s surrounding space before the visit; this may reduce setup time, although it will not change a shop’s minimum charge. Avoid ordering a timer based only on a symptom or online parts lookup, since a mistaken purchase can add return costs and delay repair.
When a repair quote approaches $400-$500, compare it with the price of a suitable replacement dryer and any other known repairs. A low-cost timer does not guarantee a low total if the appliance also needs a motor, heating component, or control board.