Washer will not start or stops shortly after starting and displays E31.

Safety First: Unplug the washer before working around the door or lid lock.

• Check door/lid closure: Ensure the door or lid is fully closed and that clothing is not caught in the seal or latch area.
• Inspect strike: Look at the plastic door or lid strike that enters the lock. If cracked, bent, or missing, replace it. A misaligned strike can prevent the lock from engaging.
• Listen for lock: Start a cycle and listen for a click from the lock. If there is no click and E31 appears, suspect the lock or wiring.
• Access lock assembly: For front-loaders, remove the front panel or door boot clamp to reach the door lock. For top-loaders, remove the top panel to access the lid lock.
• Check wiring: Inspect the harness from the lock to the control board for pinched, broken, or burned wires. Reseat the connectors at both ends.
• Test and replace lock: Use a multimeter to check continuity across the lock's main contacts when engaged (refer to wiring diagram). If open when it should be closed, replace the door/lid lock assembly with a GE-compatible part.
• Reassemble and test: Reinstall panels and run a test cycle to confirm the error is cleared.

When to call a technician: If a new lock does not resolve E31, the control board input circuit may be defective.