How to Replace W11395618 Washer Motor Run Capacitor on Whirlpool Maytag Kenmore — Step-by-Step

Your Whirlpool WTW5000DW2 starts the wash cycle, then makes a humming sound and stops mid-spin. The motor's trying to run but can't get enough power to actually turn the drum. Before you call for service, there's a good chance it's just the motor run capacitor — a small cylindrical component that gives your washer motor the electrical boost it needs to start spinning.

The W11395618 capacitor is one of those parts that fails without warning. It'll work fine for years, then suddenly stop holding a charge. When that happens, your motor hums but doesn't have the starting torque to spin the basket. The fix takes about 20 minutes and doesn't require any special skills.

What You Need Before Starting

This is a straightforward repair that most DIYers can handle in one session. Here's what to gather:

• 1/4" nut driver or socket wrench
• Flathead screwdriver
• Insulated work gloves (capacitors store electrical charge)
• Flashlight or headlamp
• Needle-nose pliers (optional, for wire terminals)

Repair Time: 15-25 minutes
Difficulty: EASY

Safety First

Capacitors store electrical charge even when the washer is unplugged. Before touching the old capacitor, you need to discharge it safely. Once you've removed the wire connectors, use an insulated screwdriver to briefly touch both terminals together. You might see a small spark — that's normal and means the capacitor is now safe to handle. Never attempt this repair with the washer plugged in.

Step 1: Access the Motor Compartment

Unplug your washer and pull it away from the wall so you can work from behind. The capacitor sits near the drive motor at the bottom rear of the cabinet. Remove the lower rear access panel by unscrewing the 1/4" hex screws around the perimeter — most Whirlpool models like the WTW4915EW2 or WTW5800BW0 have four to six screws holding this panel. Set the panel aside where you won't trip over it.

Step 2: Locate and Discharge the Capacitor

Look for a cylindrical component about the size of a AA battery, usually mounted on a bracket near the motor. It'll have two wire terminals on top. Take a photo with your phone before disconnecting anything — this makes reassembly foolproof. Pull the wire connectors straight off the terminals using needle-nose pliers if they're tight. Now discharge the capacitor by briefly touching both terminals with an insulated screwdriver blade.

Step 3: Remove the Old Capacitor

The W11395618 is held in place by a metal mounting bracket or clip. Most use a single screw at the base — remove it with your nut driver. Some models have a spring clip instead, which you can release by squeezing the sides together. Slide the old capacitor out of its bracket. If it looks swollen or has an oily residue, that confirms it was failing.

Step 4: Install the New W11395618 Capacitor

Slide the new capacitor into the mounting bracket in the same orientation as the old one. The terminals should face the same direction — up or outward, depending on your model. Secure it with the mounting screw or clip. Don't overtighten the screw; you're just holding a lightweight plastic component in place. Push the wire connectors onto the terminals firmly until you hear a slight click. They should fit snugly and not wiggle when you tug gently.

Step 5: Reassemble and Test

Replace the rear access panel and secure all the screws. Push the washer back into position and plug it in. Run a short spin cycle without any clothes to test the repair. The motor should start smoothly without hesitation or humming. If it spins the basket normally, you're done. The capacitor replacement has restored your motor's starting power.

Testing After Installation

Run a complete wash cycle with a small load to verify everything works correctly. Listen for any unusual sounds during the spin phases — you should hear only the normal motor and belt noise, no humming or clicking. Check that the washer completes all cycle stages including the final high-speed spin. If the basket reaches full RPM and your clothes come out properly spun, the W11395618 is doing its job.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this capacitor work on my Maytag or Kenmore washer?

Yes, the W11395618 is a direct replacement for multiple brands under the Whirlpool corporate umbrella. It replaces part numbers WPW10625046, W11162560, W10866250, and W10843769. If your model number starts with WTW (Whirlpool), MVW (Maytag), or certain Kenmore 110-series models, and your original part matches one of those numbers, this capacitor will fit. Always verify your model number against the compatibility list to be certain.

How long do washer motor capacitors typically last?

Motor run capacitors generally last 5-10 years depending on usage frequency and operating conditions. Washers in hot, humid laundry rooms tend to have shorter capacitor life because heat degrades the internal components faster. If you do 10+ loads per week, you're more likely to see failure on the earlier end of that range. The good news is they're inexpensive and easy to replace when they do fail.

Can I test the old capacitor to confirm it's bad?

You can test it with a multimeter that has a capacitance function. The W11395618 should read close to its rated capacitance value (usually printed on the side in microfarads). If it reads zero, significantly low, or won't hold a charge at all, it's definitely bad. However, most DIYers skip the testing — if your washer hums but won't spin and the capacitor is the original part, replacement is the logical first step. At $79.99, it's cheaper than a service call to diagnose the same issue.