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Whirlpool Washer Error Code F3 E2: Meaning and Fix

F3 E2
How F3 E2 appears on a Whirlpool washer display.
Whirlpool washer Cntrl Board Dryer (part number WPW10476828), the component to check for code F3 E2 (shared reference photo for this part type)
Product photo courtesy of AppliancePartsPros.com

Also shown as: F3E2, F3-E2

Reading the washer display

On a washer the code appears on the digital display or as a pattern of flashing cycle lights. Note it exactly, including any dashes or sub-codes, then unplug the washer for five minutes and run a short drain cycle to see whether it returns. 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 F3 E2

How to fix it

  1. Cycle the power: unplug the washer (or switch off its breaker) for five minutes, restore power, then start a short cycle and see whether the code returns.
  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
Cntrl Board DryerWPW10476828Find 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 F3 E2 mean on a Whirlpool washer?

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

Can I keep using the washer while it shows F3 E2?

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 F3 E2?

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 washer codes

Whirlpool washer Cntrl Board Dryer (part number WPW10476828), the component to check for code 1h, 2h, 3h....up to 12h1h, 2h, 3h....up to 12hControl panel faultWhirlpool washer Pump Assembly (part number WP3363394), the component to check for code A09A09Drain system faultWhirlpool washer Pump Assembly (part number WP3363394), the component to check for code A10 (shared reference photo for this part type)A10Drain system faultWhirlpool washer Cntrl Board Dryer (part number WPW10476828), the component to check for code Err (shared reference photo for this part type)ErrControl panel faultWhirlpool washer Pump Assembly (part number WP3363394), the component to check for code F0 E2 (shared reference photo for this part type)F0 E2Drain system faultWhirlpool washer Cntrl Board Dryer (part number WPW10476828), the component to check for code F0 E3 (shared reference photo for this part type)F0 E3Control panel 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 GHW9100LW1, GHW9150PW0, GHW9200LW0, GHW9100LW2, LSQ8243HQ0, GHW9100LW0, LSQ8543JQ0, LSR7233EQ0.