Timer, would be my guess from what you described.

But reading further, you identified the deadman's lid switch. They're a little tricky to install, I've needed one replacement on my washer in 20 years of operation, but they're not much money. Putting them in is a bit tricky, but anyone who wrenches on their MB can do it. Good luck.

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'06 E320 CDI
'17 Corvette Stingray Vert