Whirlpool gold series dishwasher diagnostic codes [Meaning and fixes]

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Below is how to interpret Whirlpool gold series dishwasher diagnostic codes….

If faults are detected once you run diagnostics on your Whirlpool gold series dishwasher, the machine will display an error code (Example: 6-1) as a way of directing you to the root cause of the current issue.

Here is a list of Whirlpool gold series dishwasher diagnostic codes, what they are likely to mean, and how to troubleshoot each error code.

Table of Contents

Whirlpool gold series dishwasher diagnostic codes – meaning and what to check

Note that in some cases, an error code may have more than one potential meaning.

In such cases, we have listed the recommended troubleshooting procedure for each probable fault.

Whirlpool gold series dishwasher diagnostic codes – Control board error codes

Error code 1-1

Meaning: Pilot stuck on (control has detected that K2 pilot relay is stuck closed).

Troubleshooting steps

Unplug the dishwasher (or disconnect power).
Check all the loads on the K2 pilot relay for potential shorts.
Replace the control and all the shorted components

Error code 1-2

Meaning 1: Corrupted or damaged memory/control board. It could also indicate that there are incompatible software elements inside micro.

Troubleshooting steps

Unplug the dishwasher (or disconnect power).
Replace the control board.

Meaning 2: All LED lights are on.

Troubleshooting steps

Unplug the dishwasher (or disconnect power).
Replace the UI (for models with a numeric display).

Whirlpool gold series dishwasher diagnostic codes – user interface error codes

Error code 2-1

Meaning: Stuck key detected by control.

Please note that if any key(s) are stuck, the stuck keys will usually be ignored and then an error is recorded to the service history but you do not get any alert.

Troubleshooting steps

Check the responsiveness of the keys (each key).

If some keys won’t respond, then:

Unplug the dishwasher (or disconnect power).
Disassemble door then disconnect the keypad connection from the control/LCD display module.
Verify if all other connections (to control) are in place.
Reassemble door but don’t close the door.
Plug in the dishwasher once more (or reconnect power).
Wait 7 seconds (at least) for the control to completely power up.
Now close the dishwasher door and then monitor control response:

Now, if control acts fine once you have the keypad unplugged, it typically turns on drain motor (for like 2 minutes) so you should replace the keypad and console.

But if the control is not fine (can still see stuck keys even while the keypad is unplugged), it won’t turn on the drain motor.

To be sure, wait for 10 seconds (at least) to see if the drain responds.

If it doesn’t, then you will need to replace the control/LCD display module (whichever of the two the keypad has been connected to).

What if the Keys (all of them) seem OK and I have a capacitive touch type keypad?

Here is the thing: If all keys respond fine (or at least intermittently) and your model uses a capacitive touch type keypad, then:

Verify that the tub brackets are properly screwed to the underside of the countertop (and not hanging –sometimes they do- over keys). If a screw head is too close, relocate the screw to an alternate hole.

In addition, check for signs of debris or moisture on the surface (of the keys). If you notice any evidence, clean properly.

Quick Tip: Check the appliance’s error code history. You will be interested in Fan Error code 10-3 as a likely cause of the condensation on UI (You need to sort out this error code by following the steps we have in a subsequent section of this guide to prevent future condensation on UI.

Error code 2-2

Meaning: UI (User interface) is unable to communicate with the main control (perhaps due to a loose UI connection).

Troubleshooting steps

Unplug the dishwasher (or disconnect power).
Check connection between the user interface and control P 1 C connector. If you find the connection(s) loose/wires loose (or damaged), reconnect and repair/replace as needed.
If this has not helped, try to run the troubleshooting procedure indicated for error code 2-1 (stuck key). Just to remind you, replace the console if the drain motor comes on otherwise replace the control.

Whirlpool gold series dishwasher diagnostic codes – Thermistor/OWI error codes

Error code 3-1

Meaning 1: There is an open connector/component in the Temperature Sensing circuit (the temperature sensor or another part might be faulty or there is an issue with the temperature sensor input -on control).

Troubleshooting steps

Check the operation of the temperature sensor during the Service Diagnostics cycle
Unplug the dishwasher (or disconnect power).
Check all the components as well as the connections in the unit’s Temperature Sensing circuit – use a meter. Fix/replace any open connection/component.

Meaning 2: OWI failure (causing failed calibration)

Troubleshooting steps

Run Service Diagnostics and check the OWI operation. Now, OWI should typically see low soil (with clear water) so replace if that is not the case. Otherwise:
Check the OWI lens surface. You should clean it, if needed.
Unplug the dishwasher (or disconnect power).
Check all the connections in the Soil Sensing circuit (with a meter). Fix/replace any bad connection/part.

Quick Note: Run Diagnostics after you have installed the new OWI. This forces calibration on the next wash cycle (which is very important).

Meaning 3: The drain hose’ check valve is not sealing so dirty water is backing into the dishwasher after draining.

Troubleshooting steps

Disconnect the drain hose at the plumbing connection.
Elevate the hose above your dishwasher then fill with water. Now, if you notice water flow into the dishwasher, replace the entire drain loop. Make sure you install it as high as you can and attach it to the underside of the counter top (if possible).

Whirlpool gold series dishwasher fault codes – Wash Motor error code

Error code 4-3

Meaning: Wash motor is not running (this can be caused by loose connection in the motor circuit or/and a faulty wash motor)

Troubleshooting steps

Run diagnostics and check the operation of the wash motor.
Unplug the dishwasher (or disconnect power).
Check the resistances of all the connections in the machine’s Wash circuit.
If the resistances are normal, check for any loose connections (and fix, as needed).
As a last resort, replace the wash motor.

Quick Tip: If the Wash Motor circuit has shown usual resistance once you check it with a meter but no power is getting to the unit’s wash motor, you might need to replace the control.

Whirlpool gold series dishwasher fault codes – Door Switch error codes

Error code 5-1

Meaning: Door stuck open.

This can be occurring because of the following issues:

If you did not latch the door within the recommended 4 secs of pressing “Start/Resume” key).
Either the presence of a loose connection (in the door switch circuit) or door switch contacts becoming stuck open or door switch failing to make contact at all.
A sloppy door-latch assembly.
Door switch having high resistance.

Troubleshooting steps

Check if the strike plate is fully seating (and try to bend it down, if needed, for better engagement).
Make sure the door seal is properly seated.
Check for possible interference between the door and dish racks (there could be obstructing dishes there). Re-arrange dishes, if necessary.
Check if there are any issues in the operation of the latch assembly (don’t forget to check for any broken plastic pieces -on the latch assembly. Replace the latch, if necessary.
Unplug the dishwasher (or disconnect power).
Check resistances of the door switch contacts (plus all connections in door switch circuit) with a multimeter while opening & closing the unit’s door latch. If you find high resistance with the door closed, check/fix any loose connections.

If the error code persist, try this:

With the door open, verify that 13 VDC is present across both P9-5 and P9-6.
If no voltage is found, unplug the dishwasher (or disconnect power).

Replace the control.

Error code 5-2

Meaning: Door stuck closed

Here is what you should know: The control is programmed to fail to start if it is suspecting that the door switch could be stuck closed.

Also, the control usually looks for door switch to be opened between cycles.

So the Error code 5-2 appears if you did not open the unit’s door between cycles (or when door switch contacts are stuck closed for whatever reason).

Troubleshooting steps

Open then close door then proceed to press “Start/Resume” key. If it has worked, be sure to open the door between wash cycles.

Otherwise:

Unplug the dishwasher (or disconnect power).
Measure the resistance of the door switch contacts (while also checking if the latch assembly’s mechanical operation is OK). If you find high resistance with the door closed, check/fix any loose connections. Also, replace latch assembly, if needed.

Whirlpool gold series dishwasher fault codes – inlet water problem error codes

Error code 6-1

Meaning: Low/No water to the dishwasher.

You troubleshoot this depending on the cause of the problem.

So we will look at the probable causes and the required troubleshooting in each case:

Cause 1: Water supply not turned on (or supply line inadequate)

Troubleshooting steps

Verify that you have turned on water supply. Also, confirm if the supply line is adequate.

Cause 2: Bowls/pots loaded (or flipped) and they have captured wash water.

Troubleshooting steps

Make sure you observe the loading instructions as written in your Use and Care manual.

Cause 3: Drain loop is detached from the tub and/or there is an improper drain connection.

Troubleshooting steps

Check if water is siphoning out of the dishwasher as follows:

Allow the dishwasher to complete a normal fill.
Drain it for about 5 – 10 seconds by simply pressing “CANCEL/DRAIN”.
Open the door and verify that water doesn’t siphon out of the dishwasher. If it is, check if the drain loop is properly attached to the side of the unit and that the drain hose is connecting to a drain that is at least 20 inches (50.8cm) off the floor. Correct, if necessary.

Cause 4: Water is leaking from the dishwasher.

Troubleshooting steps

Check for leaks (under dishwasher) and try to identify the cause (and fix it).

Cause 5: Fill valve or the water line plugged (with debris).

Troubleshooting steps

Start by turning off water supply (to the dishwasher)
Next, disconnect the water line/hose to the inlet valve.
Now inspect and clean (if necessary) the inlet screen (of the fill valve).
Reconnect water supply and see if the problem will be resolved.

Cause 6: Overfill switch is stuck in the “Overfill” position (and/or your dishwasher is not level).

Troubleshooting steps

See Error code 6-4 for troubleshooting steps

Cause 7: The fill valve has an electrical fault

Troubleshooting steps

See Error code 6-2 below for troubleshooting steps

Error code 6-2

Meaning: The fill valve has an electrical fault.

You again troubleshoot this according to what is causing the electrical problem (and there are several likely causes).

Here are the possible triggers and potential solutions:

Cause 1: Loose connection in the Fill Valve circuit (and or open Fill Valve Solenoid)

Troubleshooting steps

Unplug the dishwasher (or disconnect power).
Check resistances of the fill valve solenoid (plus all connections in the fill valve circuit with a meter).
Fix or replace the open connection/part.

Cause 2: Open fuse to the fill valve on the control

Troubleshooting steps

Perform a “Fuse Service Check” as explained in the ‘Meter Checking of Loads and Fuses’ paragraphs at the end of the article.

Cause 3: The Fill Valve’s Drive circuit (on the control) faulty

Troubleshooting steps

Unplug the dishwasher (or disconnect power).
Replace the control.

Error code 6-3

Meaning: Suds (or air) in pump)

Causes and what to check:

Cause 1: Too many suds

What to check

Allow dishwasher to fill with water and wash for around 1 minute.
Open the door and inspect for excessive sudsing.
Check if there is an abnormal rinse aid leakage and try to fix it.

Troubleshooting ideas:

Change to a recommended dishwasher detergent (stop using a hand detergent).
Disconnect power then replace soap dispenser if you noticed too much rinse aid leakage.

Cause 2: Bowls/pots loaded (or flipped) and they have captured wash water.

What to do

Make sure you observe the loading instructions as written in your Use and Care manual.

Cause 3: Water is leaking from the dishwasher.

Troubleshooting steps

Check for leaks (under dishwasher) and try to identify the cause (and fix it).

Cause 4: Diverter disk (in sump) is missing

Troubleshooting steps

Remove the lower spray arm, the TurboZone®assembly, the rear feed tube, plus outlet cover and check if the diverter disk (typically red in color) is installed. Install it, if necessary.

Error code 6-4

Meaning: Float Switch Open

Likely causes and what to check/troubleshooting steps:

Cause 1: Overfill switch is stuck in the “Overfill” position (and/or your dishwasher is not level).

Troubleshooting steps:

Remove any items that might be stuck underneath the float.
Verify that float can move freely and you actually hear a “click” sound from the switch contacts.
Check/adjust the leveling of the dishwasher.

Cause 2: Drain hose’s check valve is not sealing so water is probably coming back after draining and elevating the water level.

Troubleshooting steps

Disconnect the drain hose at the plumbing connection.
Elevate the hose above your dishwasher then fill with water. Now, if you notice water flow into the dishwasher, replace the entire drain loop. Make sure you install it as high as you can and attach it to the underside of the counter top (if possible).

Cause 3: Fill valve triac (on control) shorted.

Troubleshooting steps

If it is still filling while the door is open, the fill valve is likely to be mechanically stuck open.

That being so:

Unplug dishwasher (or disconnect power).
Turn off water (to the dishwasher) and replace the fill valve.
Turn water supply back on (and see if the issue is fixed).

But if it is not filling with its door open, you should run a service/diagnostics test cycle.

Once it starts, advance the service cycle until the detergent dispenser opens (the fill valve needs to be off).

Listen if the unit is still filling.

If it is continuing to fill, unplug the dishwasher (or disconnect power) and then replace the control (it is the issue in this instance).

Cause 4: Too many suds

Troubleshoot this as indicated earlier (go back to error 6-3).

Cause 5: Open fuse F9 (to the fill valve & other triac loads).

Troubleshooting steps

Perform a “Fuse Service Check” as explained in the ‘Meter Checking of Loads and Fuses’ paragraphs at the end of the article.

The other reasons why the error code is appearing is flowmeter problem or an electrical problem with Regen Valve.

Here is how to troubleshoot for these two possible causes:

Disconnected/damaged flowmeter issue

Troubleshooting steps

Disconnect power/unplug unit.
Check connections at the salt level sensor as well as at flowmeter.
Use meter to test if the flowmeter switch is closed.
Use multimeter to check if the switch to the salt level sensor is open when the unit’s salt reservoir has been filled and closed once salt reservoir is running low/empty.
Disconnect the flow meter and leave the salt sensor connected.
Apply a magnet (to the side of salt tank and close to the sensor connection). This forces the switch to close.
With the magnet still in place, run a service diagnostics cycle. Check if sanitized LED will turn on in interval/step 3. If yes, the control is OK so what you need to replace is the flowmeter assembly. Otherwise, the control input is not working and the control needs to be replaced.

Regen Valve Electrical issue

Troubleshooting steps

Three things you should focus on here:

A loose connection in the entire Regen valve circuit (The Regen valve solenoid can also be open)
Open fuse (on the control) to the Regen valve.
Faults in the Regen valve’s drive circuit (on the control).

For the first issue:

Unplug dishwasher/disconnect power.
Check resistances of the Regen valve solenoid (as well as all Regen Valve circuit connections). Fix/replace the open connection/component.

For the second fault:

Perform a “Fuse Service Check” as explained in the ‘Meter Checking of Loads and Fuses’ paragraphs at the end of the article.

For the final problem:

Unplug dishwasher/disconnect power.
Replace control

Whirlpool gold series dishwasher diagnostic codes – heating issue error codes

Error code 7-1

Meaning: No Heat

Now, the control is programmed to typically disable the heater but continue to run cycles once a water heating issue is detected.

Fortunately, running service diagnostics should clear the control and allow the heater to once again turn on.

However, the water heating problem need to be fixed or the heater will be disabled again soon.

So you need to address the true causes of the issue ASAP.

These are either:

#1- A heater circuit fault

Here we are looking at an open connection in the heater circuit or a bad component somewhere in the heater circuit.

To fix this:

Unplug dishwasher/disconnect power.
Measure the resistance of the heater (and all components plus connections in the Water Heating circuit as well as the Heat Dry circuit). Fix/replace open connection(s)/part(s).

#2- Defective Heater Drive circuit (on the control).

To fix that:

Unplug dishwasher/disconnect power.
Replace the control.

Error code 7-2

Meaning: Heater Stuck On

The culprit is often the heater drive circuit (on the control).

Troubleshooting steps

Unplug the dishwasher/disconnect power then replace control.

Quick Tip: Also inspect the heater (and all the nearby connections) for overheating/shorting. Replace if you see any signs of overheating/shorts.

Whirlpool gold series dishwasher diagnostic codes – drainage fault error codes

Error code 8-1

Meaning: Slow Drain

There are two causes here..

An obstructed drain hose/path
Drain pump impeller is fractured

For issue #1 above:

Unplug dishwasher/disconnect power.
Check for any blockages starting at the sump check valve all the way to the plumbing.

Potential results: Plugged garbage disposal/plug was not knocked out/ plugged hoses/ stuck drain loop’s check valve. Fix, as necessary.

For issue #2:

Unplug dishwasher/disconnect power.
Remove the Drain Pump.
Check impeller (you should feel some noticeable uneven resistance). If not, replace Drain Pump (it is likely to be stripped).

Error code 8-2

Meaning: Electrical Problem in drain motor

There are 4 probable reasons why this is occurring. Here they are and the necessary troubleshooting steps:

Reason #1: Loose connection in the Drain Motor circuit (Drain Motor winding could also be open).

What to do:

Unplug dishwasher/disconnect power.
Check resistances of the drain motor winding (and all other connections in drain motor circuit). Repair/replace open connection(s)/part(s)

Reason #2: Debris stuck in the drain motor impeller

What to do:

Unplug dishwasher/disconnect power.
Remove drain motor then dislodge all debris from impeller.
Return the drain motor and see if there will be a change.

Reason #3: Open fuse (on control) to the drain motor

What to do:

Perform a “Fuse Service Check” as explained in the ‘Meter Checking of Loads and Fuses’ paragraphs at the end of the article.

Reason #4: There is a problem with the Drain Motor Drive circuit (on the control)

What to do:

Unplug dishwasher/disconnect power.
Replace control.

Error code 8-3

Meaning: Drain Stuck On

Here you should focus on the drain motor drive circuit (on the control).

Specifically, try this:

Unplug dishwasher/disconnect power.
Replace control.
Finally, inspect the drain motor and all the connections for potential overheating/shorting. Replace if you come across signs of overheating/shorting.

Whirlpool gold series dishwasher fault codes – diverter error codes

Error code 9-1

Meaning: Diverter can’t find position

Likely causes and troubleshooting steps

#1- Corroded/loose connection in the diverter sensor or motor circuit or shorted/open sensor/motor

What to do:

Check operation during service diagnostics cycle.
Listen for the cam “clicking” (as it is rotating) or check the shaft (with mirror) to confirm whether it is rotating during the diverter interval. If it’s rotating, the issue could be the sensor circuit.
So, Unplug dishwasher/disconnect power.
Next, check connections in the Diverter Sensor (and Motor circuit) with meter. Fix and replace any open connections and parts.
Now inspect the diverter sensor for signs of contaminants or water. If there, replace.

#2- Mechanical binding of the diverter shaft/disc.

What to do:

Check operation of the diverter motor during service diagnostics.
Inspect the diverter shaft (with mirror). If the motor seems to be on (it is vibrating or humming) but you notice limited rotation, replace the diverter and seal.

#3- Open fuse on the control to the diverter motor

What to do:

Perform a “Fuse Service Check” as explained in the ‘Meter Checking of Loads and Fuses’ paragraphs at the end of the article.

#4- Problem with the Diverter’s Motor Drive circuit (on the control).

What to do:

Unplug dishwasher/disconnect power.
Replace control.

Error code 9-2

Meaning: Diverter stuck on

Troubleshooting procedure

Unplug dishwasher/disconnect power.
Inspect the diverter motor and all connections for potential overheating/ shorting. Replace the culprits (where you have seen signs of overheating/shorting).

Error code 9-3

Meaning: Diverter disk (in sump) is missing

Troubleshooting procedure

Remove the lower spray arm, TurboZone® assembly, the rear feed tube, and the outlet cover. Check if the round diverter disk exists and install one, if necessary.

Other Whirlpool gold series dishwasher diagnostic codes

Error code 10-1

Meaning: Dispenser electrical problem

Likely causes and troubleshooting steps

#1- Loose connection in the Dispenser circuit (dispenser solenoid could be open too)

Troubleshooting procedure

Unplug dishwasher/disconnect power.
Check resistances of the dispenser solenoid (and all the connections in dispenser circuit). Fix/replace all open connections/parts.

#2- Open fuse on the control to the dispenser

Troubleshooting procedure

Perform a “Fuse Service Check” as explained in the ‘Meter Checking of Loads and Fuses’ paragraphs at the end of the article.

#3- Dispenser drive circuit (on control) issue

Troubleshooting procedure

Unplug dishwasher/disconnect power.
Replace control.

Error code 10-3

Meaning: Drying fan error

This can be caused by:

#1- Loose connection in the fan circuit (fan motor could be open too).

How to troubleshoot for this

Unplug dishwasher/disconnect power.
Check resistances of the fan motor (and all the connections in fan circuit). Fix/replace all open connections/parts or the fan itself.

#2- Fan drive circuit issue (on the control)

How to troubleshoot for this

Unplug dishwasher/disconnect power.
Replace control.

Meter Checking of Loads and Fuses

Fuse Service Check:

Note: F8=Motor Fuse while F9=Small-triac Load Fuse.

The first thing to do is check the operation of loads as the service diagnostics cycle runs.

Now, if any (of the) triac loads work, then F9 Fuse is fine.

On the converse, if no triac loads work, F9 Fuse might be open (So proceed to the “Fuse Resistance Check” below to verify).

Moving on, if the Wash Motor doesn’t work, F8 Fuse might be open. Again proceed to the ‘fuse resistance check’ below to confirm.

Fuse Resistance Check

Unplug dishwasher/disconnect power.
Measure the resistance of the F9 Fuse and/or F8 Fuse.

NOTE: Fuses are found on the bottom (of the unit’s control board) but you can check them from the machine’s top side.

Now, if resistance is less than 3, then the fuse is OK (and if resistance is more than 3, then fuse is probably open)

Steps to take if a fuse is open:

Inspect and check the resistance of all the loads on fuse. If you find any loads to be open (or shorted), or you can see evidence of overheating/pinched wires, go ahead and replace them.

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