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Whirlpool Dishwasher Error Code F6E1: Meaning and Fix

F6E1
How F6E1 appears on a Whirlpool dishwasher display.
Whirlpool dishwasher Facia Control Panel (part number 99002521), the component to check for code F6E1 (shared reference photo for this part type)
Product photo courtesy of AppliancePartsPros.com

Reading the dishwasher display

A dishwasher reports its fault in the display window, or by blinking a cycle light a set number of times with a pause between groups. Count the blinks and pauses before opening the door. Whirlpool-family codes are usually read as a letter and number pair, with an E sub-code after it.

Whirlpool is the parent platform for Maytag, KitchenAid and Amana, so many of its control boards and fault codes reappear across those brands. Its panels typically report two-part codes such as F5 E2 or flash sequences on the keypad. The codes apply to model numbers such as GU980SCGB2, GU980SCGQ2 and GEW9200LW0; check the label on your unit to confirm yours.

What causes F6E1

How to fix it

  1. Cycle the power: switch off the dishwasher breaker for about a minute (or unplug it if you can reach the cord), restore power and run a short cycle.
  2. Disconnect power for the recommended time, then restart and press each key to see if one sticks.
  3. Clean the panel with a barely damp cloth and check around the keys for spills or swelling.
  4. With power off, reseat the ribbon cable or harness between the panel and the main control.
  5. Replace the user interface or touchpad if the code returns, then confirm every key responds.
  6. Run a full short cycle or function again and confirm the code stays gone before putting the appliance back into normal use.

Parts you may need

PartPart no.Buy
Facia Control Panel99002521Find part
Assembly Control KnobWP9706648Find part

Part numbers are OEM references; confirm fit by your model number before ordering. Some links are affiliate links; we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Questions

What does F6E1 mean on a Whirlpool dishwasher?

It is a fault code from the Whirlpool control. It indicates a problem with the control panel, specifically the user interface. A power reset is the first thing to try.

Can I keep using the dishwasher while it shows F6E1?

You can try it after a power reset. If the code returns, the affected function may not run properly, so it is worth fixing soon before it causes a bigger failure.

Do I need a technician to clear F6E1?

Many owners can fix it themselves. Start with the reset and the inspection steps, and only call a technician if the part tests bad and you do not want to replace it.

Other Whirlpool dishwasher codes

Whirlpool dishwasher Facia Control Panel (part number 99002521), the component to check for code 1 Pause 1 Pause1 Pause 1 PauseControl Module faultWhirlpool dishwasher Valve Inlet (part number W11175771), the component to check for code 10 Pause 5 Pause10 Pause 5 PauseDiverter Leak faultWhirlpool dishwasher Facia Control Panel (part number 99002521), the component to check for code 6 Pause 1 Pause (shared reference photo for this part type)6 Pause 1 PauseUser Interface faultWhirlpool dishwasher Valve Inlet (part number W11175771), the component to check for code 8 Pause 1 Pause (shared reference photo for this part type)8 Pause 1 PauseNot Detecting Water faultWhirlpool dishwasher Valve Inlet (part number W11175771), the component to check for code 8 Pause 4 Pause (shared reference photo for this part type)8 Pause 4 PauseWater fill circuit faultWhirlpool dishwasher Valve Inlet (part number W11175771), the component to check for code 8 Pause 5 Pause (shared reference photo for this part type)8 Pause 5 PauseFill Valve Stuck Open fault

Sources

Part numbers are OEM references; confirm fit by your model number before ordering. Meanings compiled from manufacturer and parts-retailer documentation; see sources below. Unplug the appliance before opening it.

Applies to models including GU980SCGB2, GU980SCGQ2, GU980SCGQ3, GU940SCGQ2, GU940SCGB2, DU943PWKQ0, GU1200XTKB0, GU980SCGB3.