So, your Whirlpool dishwasher is acting up, and you want to figure out what’s wrong? Good news—you don’t need to be an appliance repair pro to diagnose the issue. Whirlpool dishwashers have a built-in diagnostic mode that can help you troubleshoot problems quickly.
Let’s walk through how to activate it and understand what those mysterious flashing lights and error codes mean!
What is Whirlpool Dishwasher Diagnostic Mode?
Diagnostic mode is like a secret tool built into your dishwasher that runs self-tests to check for any malfunctions. It scans the control board, sensors, and other components, then displays error codes if something isn’t working right. Think of it as your dishwasher’s way of telling you what’s wrong!
How to Enter Diagnostic Mode on a Whirlpool Dishwasher
Before you begin, make sure your dishwasher is in standby mode (powered on but not running a cycle). Then follow these steps:
Method 1: Button Sequence (Most Models)
- Press any three buttons in a specific sequence—but there’s a trick: you need to press them in the same order, three times in a row, within 8 seconds.
- Example: Press 1-2-3, 1-2-3, 1-2-3 (where 1, 2, and 3 are different buttons on the control panel).
- Common button choices: Heated Dry, Normal, Heated Dry, Normal or High Temp, Air Dry, High Temp, Air Dry.
- If done correctly, the dishwasher’s lights should flash, and it will enter diagnostic mode.
- The cycle will begin running self-tests—listen for different sounds and note any blinking lights or error codes.
Method 2: Power Reset (For Some Models)
- Unplug the dishwasher for 5 minutes (or flip the circuit breaker off).
- Plug it back in and immediately press the Start/Reset button for about 10 seconds.
- If the lights flash, the unit is in diagnostic mode.
Interpreting Error Codes
Once in diagnostic mode, your dishwasher will flash error codes to indicate what’s wrong. Here are some common ones:
- F2E2 – Control board failure
- F4E3 – Wash motor failure
- F6E4 – Float switch stuck (could mean water leak detected)
- F7E1 – Heating element issue
- F8E2 – Drain pump problem
To clear the codes, try pressing Start/Reset or disconnecting power for a few minutes.
Exiting Diagnostic Mode
- Simply let the cycle finish, or press and hold the Cancel/Drain button for 3-5 seconds.
- If your dishwasher doesn’t respond, unplug it for a few minutes and restart.
What to Do Next?
- If you get an error code, refer to your dishwasher manual or look up the exact meaning on Whirlpool’s website.
- If the diagnostic test doesn’t resolve the issue, you may need a technician’s help.