While replacing the lid switch on my Kenmore Elite washer, I noticed that the terminal for the white (center) wire was misaligned within the 3-pin connector that clicks into the new lid switch…the male connector that is wired to the machine.

Typically, there is a "secret" process used to be able to pull the metal terminal and attached wire from the plastic connector. This may be a special tool to retract spring tongs on the terminal or something like that.

What is the secret to removing these terminals from the lid switch connector so I can repair or replace it?

Thank you…

Thanks, Eric.

Turns out the plastic connector is a bit melted, split, chewed up, and just not worth saving. I've purchased a replacement and will just hack away at the old one with implements of destruction to rescue the wires and terminals.

I just hope they'll click in the new connector properly…

Of course, the replacement that came had slightly different shape and won't work.

The prongs are square when they should be octagonal and octagonal when they should be square.

The holes in the end of the prongs are shaped like a 'Z' instead of a plus.

Back to the drawing board for the male counterpart to the lid switch 8318084.