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How to Run Diagnostics and Recalibrate a Whirlpool Washing Machine

Video Guide
This guide was transcribed from a YouTube video.

Introduction

Use this guide to enter the hidden diagnostics mode on a Whirlpool-style top-load washer, run an automatic component test, and perform a recalibration cycle after replacing parts. These steps generally work on many Whirlpool-made brands, including Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, Kenmore, Roper, and Admiral, but not GE or Hotpoint.

What you need

  1. Edit

    • Unplug the washer before removing any screws or bypassing any safety devices.

    • Remove any clothes or loose objects from the basket before running diagnostics or calibration.

    • Keep fingers, hair, and tools away from moving parts whenever the washer is powered on.

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    • Open the lid and locate the lid lock striker on the underside of the lid.

    • Use a Torx T15 screwdriver to remove the two screws securing the striker to the lid.

    • Note the striker orientation before removing it, because it only fits into the lock one way.

    • Insert the striker into the lid lock mechanism to trick the washer into thinking the lid is closed.

    • Do not reach into the basket or under the lid while any test is running, even though the lid can open.

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    • Rotate the cycle knob counterclockwise at least one full turn.

    • Rotate the knob clockwise three clicks, counterclockwise one click, and clockwise one click.

    • Confirm diagnostics mode by checking for five green lights flashing in parallel.

  4. Edit

    • Look for the technical manual or tech sheet inside the washer cabinet for model-specific test descriptions.

    • Open the lid and look inside the washer casing to locate the tech sheet.

    • Tip the washer backward to create enough room to reach underneath and grab the tech sheet if needed.

    • Get help when tipping the washer, and don’t let it fall or pinch fingers.

    • Use the tech sheet if the lights or sounds don’t match what you expect, because patterns can vary by model.

  5. Edit

    • In diagnostics mode, rotate the knob until the Spin selection light is illuminated.

    • Press the Start button to begin the automatic component test.

    • Watch for the red lid lock light to turn on and for a sequence of green lights showing test progress.

  6. Edit

    • Observe agitation, spinning, and any unusual noises while the automatic test runs.

    • If the motor doesn’t agitate as fast as expected, the motor or the capacitor may be failing.

    • If the basket speeds up extremely fast, the capacitor, shifter, and motor may be working properly.

    • Stop the test immediately if anything binds, grinds, or looks unsafe.

  7. Edit

    • Wait for the spin cycle to slow down and brake until the lid lock is ready to release.

    • Allow 20 to 30 seconds for the braking process before the lid lock releases.

    • Confirm the automatic test is finished when the green Done light illuminates.

  8. Edit

    • Make sure no selection lights are illuminated on the control panel.

    • Rotate the cycle knob counterclockwise at least one full turn.

    • Repeat the diagnostics entry sequence to return to diagnostics mode.

  9. Edit

    • Select the fourth mode labeled Spin.

    • Press the Start button to begin calibration.

    • Wait for the washer to activate the lid lock and cycle the selection lights during calibration.

    • Keep the washer empty during calibration, and don’t leave clothes or extra objects inside.

  10. Edit

    • Wait for the washer to flash all green lights and release the lid lock to indicate calibration is complete.

    • Remove the striker from the lid lock mechanism.

    • Reinstall the striker on the lid using the two Torx T15 screws.

    • Do not operate the washer long-term with the striker removed from the lid, because the lid lock is a safety device.

Conclusion

If the automatic component test or calibration doesn’t behave as expected, use the tech sheet inside the washer to match the light patterns and test descriptions for the exact model. Reinstall the lid lock striker before returning the washer to normal use.

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Ben Schlichter

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