Whirlpool Dishwasher F2 E2 Code: Meaning & Fixes

Meaning
Main control communication error: the dishwasher's main control has lost communication with the control panel.
Can I fix it?
Sometimes, may need a pro
Also shown as
F2E2
Seen on
Whirlpool dishwashers with electronic controls. On models without a display, the Clean light flashes 2 times, pauses, then flashes 2 times. Whirlpool ranges, dryers and washers also show F2 E2, but with different meanings.

F2 E2 on a Whirlpool dishwasher is a main control communication error: the control panel and the main control board aren’t talking to each other, so the cycle can’t run normally. Whirlpool’s fix is to cut power for 30 seconds: unplug it, or switch off its breaker if it’s hard-wired. If F2 E2 comes back, schedule service.

Try this first

  1. Unplug the dishwasher for 30 seconds, then plug it back in.
  2. If it's hard-wired, switch off its breaker for 30 seconds, then turn it back on.
  3. Start a cycle and check whether F2 E2 returns.
  4. If the code comes back, schedule service.

What causes F2 E2

CauseWhat you noticeWhat to check
Temporary control glitch F2 E2 once, then normal after a reset Cut power for 30 seconds
Loose wiring between the control panel and main board Code comes and goes Needs a technician
Failed control panel or main control board F2 E2 returns after every reset Needs a technician

Fix it step by step

  1. Cut the power for 30 seconds

    Unplug the dishwasher, or turn off its breaker at the home electrical panel if it's hard-wired. Wait 30 seconds.

    Safety: Use the breaker for a hard-wired dishwasher. Don't open the junction box or the door panel: the wiring carries mains voltage.

  2. Restore power and test

    Plug it back in or turn the breaker on, then start a cycle. Whirlpool notes that resetting the control, much like a computer, can clear the error.

  3. Schedule service if it returns

    If F2 E2 comes back, Whirlpool says to schedule service. A technician checks the connection between the control panel and the main board and replaces the failed part.

When to call a technician

If F2 E2 returns after a 30-second power reset, the fix is inside the door or control housing. Schedule Whirlpool service.

Questions people ask

Is F2 E2 the same on a Whirlpool range or dryer?

No. The same code on Whirlpool ranges and dryers points to the keypad, user interface or control on those appliances. On a dishwasher, Whirlpool lists it as a main control communication error.

How do I clear F2 E2 on a Whirlpool dishwasher?

Cut power for 30 seconds by unplugging it or switching off its breaker, then restore power. If the code comes back, the dishwasher needs service.

What's the difference between F2 E2 and F6 E1?

Both point to the controls. Whirlpool lists F6 E1 as a user interface error at the main control and F2 E2 as a main control communication error. The reset is the same, and both need service if they return.