Whirlpool Washer F6 E3 — What It Means & How to Fix It
Also shown as F6E3 on some models.
F6E3 is a washer reboot alert that points to the appliance control unit, user interface or their wiring; unplug for 5 minutes and arrange service if it comes back.
What this code means
Whirlpool calls F6E3 a washer reboot alert and says it indicates an issue with the appliance control unit, user interface, or associated wiring. It is one of a group of F6 codes about the boards communicating with each other. The published remedy is to cycle power.
From Whirlpool's top-load washer help, which gives F6E2 the same description.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Boards out of step after a power interruption | Common | Yes — power reset |
| Wiring or connector fault between control unit and user interface | Occasional | No — technician job |
| Failed control unit or user interface | Occasional | No — technician job |
What you can try yourself
- Note the code, then remove power from the washer for 5 minutes.
- Plug the washer back in.
- Pick a cycle and press Start.
- Should F6E3 return, schedule service and mention that the reset did not hold.
When to call a technician
- F6E3 reappears soon after the reset.
- The washer restarts itself mid-cycle.
- The display goes blank intermittently.
Typical professional repair cost: Typically $200–$400 if a control or user interface board is replaced; less for a harness repair.
Frequently asked questions
What is a washer reboot alert?
It is how Whirlpool describes F6E3 (and F6E2): the alert indicates an issue with the appliance control unit, user interface, or associated wiring.
How do I reset F6E3?
Disconnect the washer from power for 5 minutes and reconnect it.
Is it safe to keep washing if F6E3 clears?
If cycles then complete normally, yes. A code that keeps returning should be diagnosed.
Sources checked
Error meanings can vary by model. This guide was checked against the documentation above; use the manual for the model number on your own appliance when it differs.
Related Whirlpool codes
- Whirlpool Washer F9 E1 The washer took too long to drain — check the drain hose setup and the pump filter; the 'hose pushed too far down the standpipe' mistake causes a surprising share of these.
- Whirlpool Washer F5 E2 The washer tried to lock its door and couldn't — usually an obstruction or grime in the latch, sometimes a worn lock assembly that needs replacing.
- Whirlpool Washer SD Too much foam — the washer paused its cycle to break down excess suds, which almost always traces back to detergent amount or type rather than a fault.
- Whirlpool Washer F8 E1 Your Whirlpool washer isn't detecting water coming in — usually a supply problem (taps, hoses, screens) rather than anything wrong inside the machine.
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