Quick answer
A dryer that keeps running past the end of the cycle usually has a timer motor that stopped advancing, moisture sensor bars coated with fabric-softener residue so the dryer never reads the clothes as dry, a failed cycling thermostat, or a control relay stuck closed. Clean the sensor bars inside the drum with rubbing alcohol and test a timed cycle. If it runs with the door closed and the knob at off, unplug it or switch off the breaker and call. Angi puts typical dryer repairs at $100–$430. Call (888) 217-0236 to reach an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP; the line is answered 24/7.
Follow the short menu, then your 5-digit ZIP. The line goes quiet for a few seconds while it connects; stay on. If it does not connect, call once more: companies taking calls change minute to minute.
Written & reviewed by Marcus ReedIICRC WRT
Reviewed November 4, 2026· Next review May 2027
A dryer that keeps tumbling long after the clothes are dry is burning energy, wearing the drum bearings, and, if it runs with the knob at off, telling you the controls are no longer in charge. The cause depends on whether you use timed or sensor (auto-dry) cycles.
If the dryer runs with the door open or the knob at off, unplug it or switch off its breaker now. That is a stuck relay or switch, not a setting.
Check These First
- 1Clean the moisture sensor bars. Two metal strips inside the drum, usually near the lint filter, read how wet the clothes are. Fabric softener and dryer sheet residue coat them, so the dryer never decides the load is dry. Wipe them with rubbing alcohol.
- 2Run a timed cycle. If a timed cycle stops on schedule and auto-dry does not, the sensor or its control is the problem.
- 3Watch the timer knob on a mechanical dryer. It should slowly turn as the cycle runs. If it never moves, the timer motor has failed.
- 4Clean the lint filter and check the vent. Poor airflow leaves clothes damp, so auto-dry keeps running. See dryer not drying clothes.
What Usually Fails
| What happens | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Auto-dry runs forever, timed dry works | Coated or faulty moisture sensor |
| Timer knob never advances | Timer motor |
| Runs with knob at off or door open | Timer contacts welded, or a stuck relay on the control board |
| Runs long and clothes are hot | Cycling thermostat, or a vent that restricts airflow |
| Electronic display counts down and resets | Control board or sensor input |
Talk to an appliance repair technician
One call reaches an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP, answered 24/7.
A Word on the Vent
The U.S. Fire Administration counts thousands of home clothes dryer fires each year and names failure to clean as the leading cause. A dryer that runs much longer than it used to is worth a full vent cleaning, not just the lint filter.
What a Repair Costs
Angi puts typical dryer repairs at $100–$430, about $180. Timers, sensors and thermostats are common parts. See dryer repair.
The Call
Call when the dryer runs at off, the timer will not advance, or cleaning the sensor bars does not fix auto-dry. Have the brand and model number ready. (888) 217-0236 is answered 24/7 and connects you to an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP for washers, dryers, ovens, stoves, cooktops and freezers. Follow the short menu, enter your 5-digit ZIP and stay on while it connects; if it does not connect, call once more.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why won't my dryer stop running?
The timer has stopped advancing, the moisture sensor is coated and never reads dry, a cycling thermostat has failed, or on electronic dryers a relay on the control board is stuck closed.
Is it dangerous if my dryer won't turn off?
A dryer running with the knob at off or the door open should be unplugged or switched off at the breaker, because the control is no longer in charge of it.
How do I clean dryer moisture sensors?
Find the two metal strips inside the drum, usually near the lint filter, and wipe them with rubbing alcohol on a cloth. Dryer sheet residue builds up on them.
How much does it cost to fix a dryer that won't stop?
Angi puts typical dryer repairs at $100–$430, about $180. Timers and sensors are common parts.
Sources
Methodology: How we source and verify data · Report an error
Disclaimer: HearthDry is an independent educational resource. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or insurance advice. Consult licensed professionals before making decisions about your property or insurance claims.