Whirlpool Washer Error Codes List: Every Code Explained

Every Whirlpool washer error code we could verify against Whirlpool's own documentation — what it means, what usually causes it, and the first fix to try — in one table. Codes differ between model series, so treat your model's tech sheet as the final word.

How to read and retrieve error codes on Whirlpool washers

Whirlpool platforms have a well-documented diagnostic mode. On front-load (Duet and later) models: with the machine in standby, press and hold any one button for 3 seconds, release for 3 seconds, repeat for a total of three holds — the display lights up and shows stored fault codes (F-codes with E-suffixes), which you step through with the same button. On top-load VMW models (most Maytag/Whirlpool/Kenmore top-loaders since ~2010): turn the cycle knob with a specific left/right sequence (commonly counterclockwise once, then clockwise three, counterclockwise one, clockwise one) until all status LEDs light, then use the knob to read fault codes as LED blink patterns. The tech sheet inside the cabinet lists the exact sequence and code chart for your model — use it rather than a generic chart, because code meanings shifted between Duet, Cabrio/Bravos and VMW generations.

The complete Whirlpool washer error code list

How to reset / clear error codes on Whirlpool washers

Whirlpool-built washers clear most codes with a power reset: unplug for 1 minute (top-load models with a cycle-status display sometimes need the lid opened and closed 6 times within 12 seconds after power is restored — the well-known lid-sequence calibration/clear procedure on VMW top-loaders). Codes stored in the control's fault history remain readable in diagnostic mode even after they stop showing on the display, which is why a code that 'went away' can still be found by a technician.

How to diagnose any Whirlpool washer code

Work the problem in this order: (1) write the code down exactly as displayed — photograph it, because opening the door or pressing pause can clear it; (2) ask what the machine was doing when the code appeared — filling, washing, draining, spinning or heating points straight at the fault family; (3) run the external checks for that family first: taps and inlet screens for fill codes, the pump filter and drain hose for drain codes, load size and levelling for balance codes, the door seal and latch for lock codes — these cure the majority of washer codes without a single part; (4) clear the code and run the shortest cycle that exercises the same function (a rinse-and-spin for drain faults, a small wash for fill faults) while you watch — a code that returns in the same phase is an active fault, not a glitch; (5) only then test or replace the component the code monitors, and re-test under the same conditions that produced the fault. Skipping to step 5 is how good parts get replaced for a clogged filter.

The most searched Whirlpool washer codes, in detail

5D — Suds detected

On Whirlpool's segmented displays, the suds code Sd is widely read — and on some panels effectively shown — as 5D. The meaning is identical: the control detected oversudsing and is running (or ran) a suds-reduction routine. It is a detergent condition, not a parts failure: dose, non-HE detergent, soft water, or tub build-up.

Most likely cause: Too much detergent — HE machines need ~1–2 tbsp.

First check: Foam visible at the door/tub? Bottle check: HE? Dose?

If it keeps coming back: Build-up or dosing — see Sd page for the full suds playbook.

E01 — Part of a split F-code display

Whirlpool Duet-era displays alternate between the F-half and the E-half of a fault code: the panel shows 'F9', then 'E1', and owners understandably search 'E01' alone. E01 by itself is not a complete code. The pairings that end in E1 include F9E1 (drain pump system/long drain — the most common), F8E1 (long fill) and F7E1 (motor speed signal). The fix is to watch the display for a full alternation cycle and diagnose the complete code.

Most likely cause: An incomplete reading of an alternating display — The F-half scrolled past unnoticed.

First check: Watch the display for 10–15 seconds to catch both halves (e.g. F9 → E1).

If it keeps coming back: If the display truly never shows an F-half, the display/board may be dropping segments — photograph it for a technician.

E1 — The E-half of an alternating Whirlpool F-code (see E01)

Like E01, a lone 'E1' is an incomplete read on Whirlpool's alternating displays: the fault is the F-code it pairs with (F9E1 drain, F8E1 fill, F7E1 motor are the E1 pairings). On a minority of Whirlpool-built machines, E1-style codes appear in sensor contexts — which is exactly why the full display and the model number matter more than the fragment. This page routes you: capture the complete code, match the symptom, then use that family's guide.

Most likely cause: Partial display reading — The dominant cause of 'E1' searches.

First check: Watch the display through a full alternation to capture the F-half.

If it keeps coming back: If only fragments ever show, suspect display segment failure and photograph it.

F21 — Long drain

F21 means the control ran the drain pump and the water level didn't fall fast enough. On Whirlpool front-loaders the pump filter (behind the lower front panel on most, or at the pump on others) is the leading cause, then hose/standpipe restrictions, then the pump. The machine stops with water in the tub and the door locked until it can drain or be drained manually.

Most likely cause: Clogged pump filter/trap — Coins, lint mats and small garments collect at the pump trap.

First check: Drain via the pump trap (tray ready, slow) and clean it — on models without an access door, the trap is at the pump from below/rear.

If it keeps coming back: F21 returning with a clean trap points downstream (house line) or at a weakening pump under full-load head.

F3E1 — Water level system error

F3E1 indicts the level-sensing system: the pressure sensor's signal is out of range or implausible. The sensor reads tub air pressure through a thin hose; hose faults (water in it, splits, disconnection) beat sensor faults statistically, and a suds event can hold a false reading long enough to set the code.

Most likely cause: Air hose compromised — Blocked, waterlogged, kinked or off its nipple.

First check: Inspect the hose end-to-end; confirm it's dry inside and firmly seated at both ends.

If it keeps coming back: Returning F3E1 after a sensor swap = hose routing re-trapping water, or board-side connector corrosion.

F5 — Door/lid lock fault family

On Whirlpool's F##E# system, F5 covers the door (front-load) or lid (top-load) lock system. The display usually adds the E-suffix that matters: F5E2 = door lock fault, F5E3 = door unlock fault. A bare F5 search lands here because owners catch the family before the suffix. Physically it's one system: the latch/lock assembly, its switches, the door/lid alignment, and the wiring to the board.

Most likely cause: Door/lid not fully closed — Fabric in the seal; lid not clicked.

First check: Note the full code including the E-digit — that suffix is the diagnosis shortcut.

If it keeps coming back: Intermittent faults under spin vibration = dying lock switch contacts.

Less common and model-specific codes

Search data shows owners also meet these codes on Whirlpool washers: CL, D5, DRN, E3, F6, F9, H2O, IE, OE, OOB, P1, PE, S5, SC, SE, U4, U6, UB, UD, UE. They are not part of the core code list Whirlpool publishes for most models — several are series-specific, abbreviated display readings, or codes carried over from a sister platform — so we do not publish meanings for them rather than guess. Treat them by symptom: note what the machine was doing when the code appeared (filling, draining, heating, spinning), run one full power cycle (5 minutes off), and if the code returns, match the symptom to the closest documented family in the table above and check the tech sheet stored inside your machine for the model-specific definition.

Deep-dive guides for the most searched codes

Frequently asked questions

Related guides

Facts on this page were checked against manufacturer documentation: manualowl.com · manualowl.com · producthelp.whirlpool.com · producthelp.whirlpool.com · producthelp.whirlpool.com · producthelp.whirlpool.com · producthelp.whirlpool.com · producthelp.whirlpool.com · nelihome.com · nelihome.com