Product review (5 stars): Perfect replacement switch
This switch is an identical replacement for the original Whirlpool lid switch.

Naturally, when ordering any replacement part, the new part is not on hand when the original part malfunctions and your washer is inconveniently out of service until the replacement arrives.  In this case there is a possible quick repair for the defective switch to keep the washing machine running normally and safely.

The lid switch is accessed by first **unplugging the machine's power cord from the wall electrical outlet** and then removing the top control panel.  Remove two screws on the upper back of the control panel and pry up two concealed spring clips on the front bottom of the panel (one clip on each side) and the control panel will left up and out of the way.  You will see the lid switch on the left side of the top of the washing machine. Unplug the wire connector to the switch and remove the ground screw.  The switch itself just clips into place and will easily lift out.  Raising the washing machine lid is the secret to easy removal (and installation) of the switch.  There is an arm on the lid hinge that engages with the underside of the lid switch.  Opening the washer lid prior to the switch removal (or installation) disengages this arm and allows for easy removal or insertion of the switch.  Remove the switch.

The switch has an obvious top cap held in place by 3 clips and this cap can be carefully removed to inspect the interior parts.  The actual switch part inside resembles an old automobile's distributor points.  If the problem is caused by these contacts just being pitted or corroded (not caused by a broken part), then these contacts can be cleaned by removing the two small metal arms and using a fine grit sandpaper (400 or higher) to lightly sand smooth the faces of the contact points on the end of the arms.  Just be careful to note how the metal parts are arranged and reassemble them exactly as they were making sure the top cap is refastened securely.  (Snapping a photo of the switch interior with your cell phone or digital camera prior to tinkering with the parts is always a good idea.)  Reinstall the switch and the control panel.

If this doesn't solve the problem, then you are only out about 30 minutes of labor and will be familiar with the procedure when the replacement switch arrives.

As a followup, sanding the switch contacts as a repair is holding up fine in October 2013, 15 months later.  The new switch is still sitting on the shelf.