A Whirlpool washer error code E01/F06 indicates that the washer’s motor control unit (MCU) is having trouble communicating with the washer’s central control unit (CCU). In most cases, the issue is caused by a damaged MCU circuit, usually caused by an overload. If you heard an electrical popping sound when the washer stopped working, the MCU (or CCU) likely needs to be replaced. However, in some cases, the error code may just be a glitch, which is fixable by resetting the washer (disconnecting the power).
Follow the steps below to diagnose and resolve the E01/F06 error code.
This guide applies to most Whirlpool washer models, including the following:
2LA5700XMW0
2LA5700XMW1
2LSR5233BN0
2LSR5233BQ1
2LSR5233BW0
2LSR5233BZ1
3CA2000XMW0
GHW9100LW1
GHW9100LW2
GHW9150PW0
GHW9150PW4
GHW9200LW0
LSQ8243HQ0
LSR7233EQ0
LSR8233EQ0
LXR9245EQ1
WFW72HEDW0
WFW9150WW00
WTW4800XQ2
WTW4800XQ4
WTW5000DW1
1. Reset the Washer
If your Whirlpool washer has an E01/F06 error code, the first thing to try is to reset the washer by disconnecting it from the power for 10 minutes. After you reconnect the electricity, if you do not see the error code, you can run a quick test using the washer’s diagnostic mode to make sure the error has been resolved.
Follow these steps to reset the washer:
- Press pause/cancel twice to cancel the error code.
- Unplug the washer from the power source.
- Wait ten minutes.
- Reconnect the power to the washer.
- Put the washer into diagnostic mode by pressing any three keys except power one after the other; then press the three keys again. Make sure you press the same three keys in the same order. When the washer is in diagnostic mode, it should show 888 on the display.
- Select an express test by pressing and releasing the second button that you pressed above.
- After the LED begins blinking, press start to begin the test. If the E01/F06 error code returns, the issue has not been resolved, and you will need to continue to troubleshoot the problem.
2. Access the Washer
The next three steps will require accessing the CCU and MCU. With most Whirlpool washers, you will need to remove the top of the washer to access the CCU and the washer’s rear panel to access the MCU.
The tools required can vary depending on the model, but with most Whirlpool washers, you will require a 1/4 inch socket or nut driver and a small slotted (flathead) screwdriver.
Both the top and rear panel should be secured with screws, which you should remove with the relevant screwdriver.
Make sure to disconnect the power to the washer before removing the access panels. For safety, the water to the washer should be turned off as well. To protect against cuts and electric shocks, it is recommended that you wear appliance repair work gloves.
3. Check the Connections
With most Whirlpool washer models, the CCU is located at the top of the washer, in the front right corner. The MCU is usually located at the bottom of the washer, in the back right corner (when facing the front of the washer). Both components will be housed inside an assembly that is secured to the side of the washer.
Once you have located the CCU and MCU, check that all the wires are securely connected to the CCU and MCU. Follow the instructions below to access the MCU and CCU assemblies. If you find that a wire is not connected, plugging it in should resolve the E01/F06 error code.
4. Check the MCU for Damage
In most cases, damage to the MCU is responsible for the E01/F06 error code. Once you have located the MCU, inspect the board for signs of burning or damaged wires. If there are burn marks or the MCU is damaged, replacing the MCU with a new one should resolve the E01/F06 error.
Follow these steps to remove and replace the MCU:
- Make sure the power is disconnected.
- Remove the rear access panel.
- Locate the MCU assembly box attached to the side of the washer (back right corner).
- Open the small door to expose the wire connectors.
- Take a photo to remember how to reconnect the wires.
- Disconnect the three wire connectors.
- Use a slotted screwdriver to lift the tabs at the bottom of the MCU assembly that secure it to the washer.
- Remove the MCU assembly from the washer.
- Reinstall a new MCU by following these steps in reverse order.
The MCU can be tested with a multimeter. However, testing the MCU with a multimeter is best left to a trained technician, as the wiring may differ depending on the model, and the washer’s power may need to be turned on, which increases the risk of electrocution.
5. Check the CCU for Damage
If the MCU is in good condition and not defective, the error may be caused by the CCU. Like the MCU, the CCU is difficult to test with a multimeter, and so it is best to get a trained technician to check it. However, like the MCU, you can inspect the CCU for signs of burning or damaged wires. If you notice burn marks or damage, replacing the CCU with a new one should resolve the E01/F06 error code. Replacing the CUU can be expensive, so again, it is best to get it checked by a trained technician before replacing it.
Follow these steps to check and replace the CCU:
- Make sure the power to the washer is disconnected.
- Remove the top panel from the washer by removing the screws that secure it.
- Locate the CCU attached to the side of the washer in the front right corner.
- Use a slotted screwdriver to release the locking tab that secures the CCU to the side of the washer.
- Use the slotted screwdriver to help release the wire covers so that you can see the wire connectors.
- Take pictures to remember how the wires connect.
- Disconnect the CCU wires.
- Remove the CCU assembly from the washer.
- Replace the CCU with a new one by following the steps above in reverse.
CCU and MCU issues are some of the more difficult appliance repairs to perform, especially without washer repair training. If you have followed the steps above and the E01/F06 error code remains, it is time to call a trained technician.