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Whirlpool Fault Codes
Whirlpool washing machine fault codes and spare parts
This set of fault codes for Whirlpool washing machines that have model numbers starting with WWCR or MWA and may not relate to other Whirlpool washing machine models sold outside Europe, especially models sold in the USA. Although we know that these codes are for the WWCR they may well relate to other European and UK model ranges but we do not have a note of the models that these are, you generally only find the codes when you look up a specific model number.
If you are unsure please ask in the forums as well as for all other Whirlpool washing machine fault codes but we think that these codes relate to many of the 6th Sense washing machines from Whirlpool.
Before you start any investigation of the fault or even remove the lid of your Whirlpool washing machine please read and fully understand this article in full and pay particular attention to the safety and information notices at the bottom of this page as they contain extremely important information!
Please remember to support our site by buying Whirlpool washing machine spares from our spare part store and, if you decide that you need a washing machine engineer please support the local washing machine repairers that help make this site possible, you can find a local Whirlpool washing machine engineer using our free engineer search facility.
Whirlpool Washing Machine Fault Codes
These fault codes are written for washing machine repairers and not for the general public by Whirlpool and UK Whitegoods and they assume a certain level of competence on the part of the user in diagnostic routines. We have added some notes to try to assist you in determining the nature of the fault you have but, you will still need to investigate each failure on its own merits. For more help and advice on fault finding on a washing machine please refer to our washing machine fault finding guide from this link before you begin.
Whirlpool Spare Parts
We have purposely not listed any Whirlpool washing machine spares in this article as there is a vast range of spares used by Whirlpool.
For spares, if it isn't glaringly obvious which one is required please contact us and ask and have the 12NC number from the rating plate of the washing machine. The 12NC number is like a VIN number on a car, it tells us exactly what part you need and using any other numbers or sizes can be tantamount to a guess. Using the 12NC ensures you get the correct part every time.
Please, don't guess or assume as spares can be altered on a production run with the same model number having several different alternative components used.
Blanks spacing element
N/C
No Fault Code Displayed: Controller failure or NTC short
This will appear as if the washing machine is completely dead and lifeless with no indication of power at all as well as completely unresponsive but mains power is being supplied to the machine.
Check mains power supply (you did that, right?)
Check mains fuse in plug
Check NTC for short circuit
Check NTC wiring for shorts
If NTC tests okay replace control unit
Blanks spacing element
N/C
No Fault Code Displayed: Door lock failure
Should the controller be unable to lock the door within 20 seconds of the program being started then the machine will revert to program selection. The start/pause LED will be seen to flash.
Check for mechanical issues with the door lock, door handle and door
Check door is fully closed
Check door lock
Whirlpool washing machine no fill error F01
F01
Not filling with water or fill detection error
After six minutes, if the machine does not fill with water, then the water valves will be shut off and the LED with a water tap symbol will be lit.
You can attempt to restart the program by simply pressing the start/pause button again however, the washing machine will only work if the fill issue is resolved.
No Water In Your Washing Machine
Check that the water supply to the washing machine is okay and there is water
Check for kinks in the fill hoses to the washing machine
Check inlet valve filters where fitted, ensure that these are clear
Check water inlet valves
Water In Your Machine But No Fill Error
Check pressure switch hose for holes or blockage
Ensure that the washing machine is not siphoning back to waste water outlet
Check wiring to water fill valves, pressure sensor and control unit
Check all hoses for leaks
Check main control unit
Whirlpool washing machine aquastop filling error F02
F02
Aquastop error detected
If the Aquastop leak detection system is activated then the washing machine will drain for three to six minutes then the program will end and the door will unlock.
The activation occurs when the contact switch in the base of the washing machine inside is closed for more than 30 seconds.
No Water In Your Washing Machine
Check that there is no water in the base of the washing machine
Check for any leaks from hoses
Check for leaks from the tub unit
Water In Your Machine But You Have The Aquastop Error
Check the Aquastop switch for a short circuit
Check the wiring to the Aquastop switch
Check control unit operation and also see error F26, pump triac short
Whirlpool washing machine no drain error F03
F03
Water drain timeout error
This error is displayed when the washing machine fails to drain or, fails to drain in a predetermined time period. Once the allotted time is exceeded the machine will light the "Clean Filter" indicator.
The washing machine will time out on drain after approximately four minutes when it will switch to what is known as impulse draining where the pump will run for ten seconds, then off for ten seconds for a period of around four minutes in an attempt to clear any blockage.
Check drain pump filter on the washing machine for any blockages
Check the drain hose for any kinks or blockage
Ensure the drain pump is running
Check drain pump
Check for excessive foam as this can cause this error, see also code F18
Whirlpool washing machine no heat error F04
F04
Water heating phase timeout
Should the water temperature not exceed 35˚C (on appropriate cycle or settings) after approximately fifty minutes the controller will display this error.
Check the water heating element for continuity
Check NTC for short circuit
Check NTC wiring for shorts
Check operation of NTC as this error can occur where the resistance does not alter
Check control unit
Whirlpool washing machine temperature sensor error F05
F05
Water temperature sensor error
Should the resistance reading for the NTC or thermistor fall out of the expected range then this error will be displayed.
Note that, as above, should the NTC be short circuited it can cause the washing machine to fail to power up, it will appear as if the washing machine is dead.
Check NTC for short circuit
Check NTC wiring for shorts
If NTC and wiring tests okay replace control unit
Whirlpool washing machine motor tachometer error F06
F06
Drive motor tachometer error
This error occurs when the main control unit fails to detect the motor speed from the tachometeric generator fitted to the motor either through an incorrect resistance or the tacho is not correctly fitted into place. The machine will try to detect the reading several times before aborting the program ans shutting down with this error being displayed.
When checking ensure that the drive belt and belt tension are okay as this can cause this error.
Check tacho resistance
check tacho placement
Check wiring for shorts
Check wiring harness connections between motor and main controller
Check drive belt for damage and tension
Whirlpool washing machine motor triac error F07
F07
Motor controller triac error
The main control unit has detected a short in the motor triac.
Check Motor for any signs of damage
Check main control unit by running test program
Whirlpool advise that if failure occurs with universal motor, replace control unit but if the washing machine has a CIM, BPM or Direct Drive motor to change the motor.
Whirlpool washing machine water heating element open circuit error F08
F08
Open circuit error detected on heating circuit
The main control unit in the washing machine has detected that there is an open circuit somewhere in the heating circuit.
The main control unit will detect this error at the start of a program and during the spin phase.
Check wash heating element for continuity
Check the wash heater for earth leakage
Check wiring to the heater
Check the control unit
Whirlpool washing machine motor control unit error F09
F09
Motor control unit low voltage detected
This will fault code only be displayed on washing machines that have a CIM, BPM or Direct Drive motor fitted and an external motor control unit is used.
The motor control unit has detected that the voltage supplied to it is less than 170V AC and this is not a defect of the component itself but of the mains voltage input.
Check mains electrical supply to the washing machine as it is faulty
Whirlpool washing machine motor control unit overheat error F10
F10
Motor control unit detects an overheat
This fault code is only displayed on washing machines that have a CIM, BPM or Direct Drive motor fitted and an external motor control unit is used.
The motor control unit has detected an overheat situation.
Check the drum for any blockage, laundry can stop drum rotation if trapped
Check drum for noise or friction that may indicate a bearing failure
Check that the washing machine was not overloaded, this can cause this error
Check ambient room temperature, if too warm it can cause this error
In all the above cases allowing the machine to cool off with the issue resolved should allow the washing machine to work again. If the fault persists after these issues are addressed then the following will apply:
Check the motor for any defects, see fault code F06
Check the motor control unit for defects or fault
Whirlpool washing machine motor triac error F11
F11
Motor control unit has failed to initialise
This fault code will again only be displayed on washing machines that have a CIM, BPM or Direct Drive motor fitted and an external motor control unit is used.
The motor control unit has failed to initialise during the power on self test process or an error has been detected with the motor control unit. This can be cause by a wiring fault or short as well as loose plugs or poor connection.
When you power on the washing machine and voltage is supplied to the motor control unit it performs a self test sequence automatically. You will hear an audible "click" as the relay switches when power is applied and the self test is completed successfully.
Check harness between the motor control unit and main control unit
Check all connectors
Check motor for any fault, see fault code F06
Whirlpool washing machine motor triac error F12
F12
Heater circuit failure
This error code is displayed when the main control unit detects an error somewhere on the heating circuit, usually a short circuit in this case.
Check water heating element for continuity
Check water heater for earth leakage
check heater resistance
Check all wiring and connectors to the heater and from there to the main controller
Check main control unit
Whirlpool washing machine motor controller error F13
F13
Controller fails to detect door lock triac correctly
This error code is displayed if the main control unit fails to detect the door lock triac correctly. Also, if the controller cannot unlock the door after 240 seconds after the cycle is completed then this error will be shown.
If displayed switch the washing machine off completely, we recommend disconnecting it from the mains supply for a few seconds. Switch it back on and the controller will attempt to unlock the door once more but, if it fails to do so in the same 240 seconds the error code will be displayed once more.
Check all wiring and connectors between the main controller and the door lock
Check main control unit, probably requires to be replaced
Whirlpool washing machine EEPROM error F14
F14
EEEPROM error
The main controller gets all its instructions from an EEPROM that is fitted onboard the main controller PCB, if there is an error reading this software then you will see this error appear.
It is worth noting that this is uncommon and to damage the EEPROM permanently as it is hard coded. We often comment that two things can alter a washing machine's program software, physical damage to the chip or board and an electro-magnetic pulse, which is highly unlikely. These software instructions are designed to remain unchanged and cannot be altered without some form of interference normally. In other words, the problem has been caused by something outside of the washing machine.
On this range of Whirlpool washing machines the error can be show as a result of a mains power glitch, usually a power spike.
You can attempt to reset the washing machine by removing power for a short period and then reconnecting, it may clear the error.
Should that fail to work Whirlpool recommend that the test program is run to check the EEPROM, if this fails then you must replace the main electronic control board.
Run test program
Check control unit
Whirlpool washing machine drum error F15
F15
Drum Up circuit missing
This error code will only apply to Whirlpool top-loading washing machines that are fitted with the Drum Up circuit.
The main control unit has detected that the Drum Up switch is closing during the wash process.
This error code should only be displayed when running a test program.
Check the positioning of the electromagnetic device on the drum
Check the reed sensors position
Check the resistance of the reed sensor
Check the wiring and all connections between the reed sensor andf the controller
Whirlpool washing machine foam error F18 or FoD
F18
FoD
Excessive foam detected during wash cycke
If the main electronic control unit is unable to detect that water has been drained out of the washing machine or unable to spin after several attempts then this fault code will be displayed.
The presence of excessive foam can cause the pressure sensor to be held open, tricking the electronics into thinking that the washer has failed to drain when water has in fact been emptied from the machine. Often, when left for a while to allow the lather to dissipate, the washing machine will work normally after a few hours.
Excessive lather can also cause spin errors as well as leaks.
Poor quality detergents and conditioners do have a tendency to foam or lather more than leading brands in our experience.
In virtually all cases, other then where there is an obvious fault, this will be a use related issue.
Customer is overdosing detergent and/or conditioner - Advise on use
Check detergent being used is suitable for automatic washing machines
Check that concentrated elements are not being used excessively
Check drain pump for any blockage or foreign objects
Check operation of the drain pump
Check operation of the pressure sensor or switch
Check that the machine is not siphoning to the drain
Whirlpool washing machine control board relay error F19 or F20
F19
F20
Control relay for motor controller faulty
This fault code is only displayed on washing machines that have a CIM, BPM or Direct Drive motor fitted and an external motor control unit is used.
The main electronic control unit has failed to detect the relay that switches the motor control unit on and off has operated correctly. This relay is fitted on the main electronic controller and it is highly unlikely that there is an issue with the electronic board that controls the drive motor.
Check wiring and all connectors between the motor and main electronic control units
Replace main electronic control unit
Whirlpool washing machine user interface error F21
F21
User interface error
This fault code will only be seen on washing machine models that Whirlpool say have a Smart User Interface.
Essentially it is the main electronic control unit reporting that it can't talk to the user board for some reason. The error should be displayed using the status LED because the control unit canot contact the user board to display it there.
Check all wiring and connectors between the main electronic control unit and user board
Check display module (most likely sue to damage or spillage etc)
Check main control unit
Whirlpool washing machine communication error F22
F22
Motor control unit communications failure
This fault code is again only displayed on washing machines that have a CIM, BPM or Direct Drive motor fitted and an external motor control unit is used.
The main electronic controller ha failed to communicate with the electronic motor control unit.
Check wiring between motor control unit and main electronic controller
Check all connectors are secure and connections are good
Check motor control unit functions
Check main control unit
Whirlpool washing machine pressure switch error F23
F23
Pressure switch failure
Should the main electronic control unit detect that the wash level contact (or level) is on and the switch level for wash heater safety is off for any more than ten seconds during a wash this error code will be displayed.
Resetting the program may clear this error but unlikely.
Check the pressure switch or sensor for operation and electrically
Check the wiring from the main electronic control card to the level sensor
Check all connectors between the main controller and pressure switch
Run test program
Also see F08 and F12 as heater failure can cause this error to occur
Whirlpool washing machine overflow error F24
F24
Water overflow detected
As with many washing machines the Whirlpool washers using this software have an overflow sensor built into the level switch or sensor, sometimes called a pressure switch. This is a safety measure to prevent flooding but it can be activated for a number of other reasons and, most commonly, by user error.
When activated the machine will close the water inlet valves if they are open and switch the drain pump on. The overflow level must have been reached for more than five seconds for these events to happen.
Once again, overdosing of detergents or conditioner can cause this error to manifest as excess lather or foam can travel up into the pressure sensor causing the level to be falsely reported to the electronics. Poor quality detergents also tend to foam more than leading brands.
Check detergent quality and dose
Check water outlet or drain hose for kinks or any blockage
Check drain pump filter for foreign objects and/or blockages
Check drain pump
Check that the water inlet valve is closing correctly
Check pressure switch for operation
Check pressure switch wiring and connectors
Check harness and connectors from the pressure switch to the main controller
Whirlpool washing machine drain pump error F26
F26
Drain pump triac failure
This error code is displayed when the main electronic controller fails to detect the triac that controls the outlet drain pump during the wash cycle.
Check pressure switch contacts and connectors
Failure of the pressure switch or level sensor can also give rise to this fault code
Run test program
If failure persists after test and verification of pressure switch, replace main controller
Whirlpool washing machine reverse relay error F27
F27
Reverse relay failure
This fault code will only be shown when the test cycle is in operation.
The electronic controller has detected that the main drive motor can only run in one direction.
Check the motor field windings
Check the motor connectors
Check harness and connectors between main controller and motor
Check main electronic controller operation
Whirlpool washing machine motor triac error F28
F28
Tapped field failure
The electronic controller has been unable to switch on the tapped field on the drive motor.
Check that the correct motor is fitted if this has been replaced
Check the motor field windings
Check the motor connectors
Check harness and connectors between main controller and motor
If all the above is okay replacing the main controller is advised by Whirlpool
Whirlpool washing machine door lock error F29 or Fdl
F29
FdL
Door cannot unlock - mechanical issue
This error code indicates that the washing machine cannot unlock or release the door lock for some reason and, in this instance, this will be due to a mechanical issue in most cases.
Check door for mechanical problems
Check door hook, latch or catch for issues
Check door safety interlock
Check wiring from door lock to electronic controller
Wave Washing Machines
On Wave series Whirlpool washing machines the door lock will time out to fail in four minutes however if the error is detected three times in sixteen cycles this error will occur on the third instance of the problem being detected.
The cycle can be restarted but the door will remain locked.
The indication of this problem can only be cleared by running the test program or by reprogramming the electronic card
Wave 2 Washing Machines
As above but:
The door lock time out is increased to six minutes.
The door lock is not locked whilst the failure is displayed.
It is not required to delete the failure as above.
Whirlpool washing machine motor triac error F31
F31
bdd
Blocked drum detected
This error code is only used on Whirlpool top loading washing machines.
Although almost all washing machine manufacturers refer to this as a "blocked drum fault" what they mean in layman's terms is that the drum in the washing machine is jammed and cannot move.
In this instance, because it is used on a top-loader, it can mean as follows but also see error code F06 for other possible causes.
Check that the drum door is closed properly
Check that the belt is positioned correctly
Check for trapped items
Blanks spacing element
F40
Communication failure or low ambient temperature
This fault code will only be shown when the test cycle is in operation.
The main electronic controller fails to be able to communicate with the Myst Extension Board (MEB).
It is possible that this code is also displayed in the ambient (room) temperature is lower than 5˚C where the washing machine is positioned although it has been reported to occur where the temperature is a little higher than this therefore, greater than 10˚C should be regarded as a minimum ambient temperature.
Check that the ambient room temperature meets requirements
Check for power at CU2 on the MEB
Check that the communication cable is secure to the user interface board
If the code is displayed at the start of a test cycle:
Run drain cycle and allow this to fully complete to reset
Restart test program
If all above is okay, replace the MEB
Blanks spacing element
F41
MEB board failure
This fault code will only be shown when the test cycle is in operation.
The MEB has been detected as being faulty.
Check for power on CU2 on the MEB
If no power, replace MEB
Blanks spacing element
F42
Stem unit failure
This fault code will only be shown when the test cycle is in operation.
If there is any failure detected in the steam generating unit or the control NTC for the steamer then this error code will be displayed on the test program.
SAFETY NOTE: Before working on the steam unit ensure that the washing machine is disconnected from the mains!
Check the wiring harness between the steam unit, NTC and MEB
Check all fuses and/or resettable thermostat are not open circuit
Check the resistance of the steamer (see below)
Check the NTC is not open or shorted
Check all hoses are connected
Check that the steamer tube is not blocked
Check water heater NTC (see F04 and F05)
If all above is okay, replace steamer
To check the steamer resistance measure across pins one and three, you should get a reading of 48-57 Ohms (Ω), if it is outside of this reading then it is likely faulty.
Blanks spacing element
F43
Steam valve failure detected
This fault code will only be shown when the test cycle is in operation.
If there is no water supply or a restricted supply from the likes of a low mains water pressure then this error code will be shown.
Check water supply is present and adequate
Check cables between the MEB and water inlet valve
Check power supply to the water valve from the MEB, should be 230VAC
Check hoses are secure and not holed
If above is okay, replace the water valve
If the problem persists after a new valve is fitted, replace MEB
Whirpool Washing Machine Test Sequence
To get into and operate the test sequence please follow these instructions in order exactly as laid out and allow the test to full complete. Aborting the test sequence or cutting the power during it may cause problems.
Do not have any laundry in the washing machine when you operate the test sequence - this is important!
Running the Diagnostic Test
Step 1: Switch on the washing machine
Step 2: Close the door of the washing machine
Step 3: Select the first available program on the timer dial to the left of the OFF position, usually this will be drain or spin
Step 4: Press the push button Reset four times within five seconds
Step 5: To advance through each phase of the test press the reset button twice, you must do this manually
Below is a chart that explains what is happening and what is being tested at each phase of the testing sequence.
Whirlpool washing machine test sequence details
Get Whirlpool Washing Machine Parts
Getting the correct spare part to repair your Whirlpool washing machine can be very confusing as there are many variants, even with the model number it is sometimes the case that a 12NC number will be required to ensure that you get the correct spare part. You can find that on the rating plate inside the door.
Apart from that there are often lower cost compatible spares available that we may be able to recommend that can offer you a considerable saving.
We recommend that you contact us with the model information and we will give you guidance on pricing, availability and any lower cost alternatives that can be used. Simply fill out the form below and we will get back to you quickly.
More Whirlpool Washing Machine Help
Should you need more help and guidance please use the links from this article as most of them will help you to understand your Whirlpool washing machine a lot better and probably very much help you in diagnosing the fault you have. Of course there are many other articles on the site that will also help you do this.
In addition you can post in our washing machine forum after registering but please do pay heed to the information below before doing so and read the guides, they are there to help you.
You must understand certain things before you begin or attempt any repairs on your own and we want to make these points very, very clear to anyone that decides to investigate one of these or any other washing machines:
We are not responsible for your safety, you are and by using this guide you accept that and accept that any damage that you may cause and work undertaken is entirely at your own risk.
We will advise the common causes of the fault codes but we cannot guarantee that any parts or work recommended will resolve the issue. It is entirely your responsibility to diagnose your particular problem and resolve it.
We are not responsible for you buying spares that do not resolve the problem, this is down to your own diagnosis not ours.
No warranty is inferred, implied or given.
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