Whirlpool, Maytag, and Amana washers share the same control platform, so they use the same fault codes — and many are simple, do-it-yourself fixes rather than a reason to replace the machine. Here’s what each code means, what to try first, and when to call a technician.

Whirlpool & Maytag washer error codes at a glance

Code What it means What to try
F21 / F2E2 / F02 Won’t drain (long drain) Clean the drain-pump filter; clear the drain hose; check standpipe height
LF / F8E1 Won’t fill (long fill) Open both taps fully; unkink inlet hoses; check water pressure
Sud / Sd Too many suds Use less detergent — HE only; run a rinse/drain
F5E3 / Lid / dL Lid or door won’t lock Close firmly; clear obstruction; unplug to reset
oL Overloaded Remove some items and restart
dU / Ld Door or drain not clearing Make sure the lid closes and the washer can drain
F7E1 Motor speed-sensor fault Needs service (motor / wiring)
F9E1 Drain-system fault Check drain hose and pump; may need service
PF Power failure mid-cycle Restore power; restart the cycle

Codes vary slightly by model — check your manual if yours isn’t listed.

The most common codes — and how to fix them

F21 / F02 — won’t drain

The most-reported Whirlpool code: the washer couldn’t empty the tub in time. Try first: clean the drain-pump filter (behind the lower front panel), clear the drain hose, and make sure the standpipe isn’t too high. Still stuck? The drain pump may be failing — see washer won’t drain.

LF — won’t fill (long fill)

The washer couldn’t fill with enough water in time. Try first: open both taps fully and straighten the inlet hoses; low household water pressure can also trigger it. Still stuck? See washer won’t fill.

Sud / Sd — too many suds

The machine detected excess suds and paused to clear them. Try first: use only HE detergent, and less of it (1–2 tablespoons per load). It should clear on its own after a rinse/drain.

F5E3 / Lid — lid or door won’t lock

The lid lock didn’t engage. Try first: close the lid firmly, clear anything in the way, and unplug for a minute to reset. Still stuck? The lid-lock assembly is a common, affordable replacement.

F7E1 — motor fault

A motor speed-sensing error. This one isn’t a DIY fix — it usually means a wiring-harness or motor issue that needs a technician.

The bottom line

Most Whirlpool and Maytag washer codes come down to an inexpensive part or a simple blockage — repairing is almost always cheaper than replacing. If a code won’t clear, we repair Whirlpool, Maytag, and Amana washers (and every major brand) across DFW, usually same-day. Not sure yours is worth fixing? See our washer repair-or-replace guide.

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Washer showing an error? · Appliance repair FAQ