Kenmore Washer Troubleshooting - How to Find Error Codes & Recalibrate to Fix Your Washer

If you have a Kenmore Washer that has problems like it won't spin, this video is to help you "Open Up" the washer and put this washer into diagnostic mode. These style washers (made from 2009 to 2016 and still today with other brands) have a powerful error code mode that will show you how to solve stuff like your Kenmore Washer won't spin - or at least isolate why that's an issue. Using these systems should help you pin down why a Kenmore Washer won't spin, or other issues like a Kenmore washer won't drain. These steps can be done on many other styles of VMW washers (which all have the green oval lights and go under brand names like Maytag, Kenmore, Amana, Roper, Whirlpool, Inglis, Admiral and others).
In this video, we're showing you the 4 primary mode of the Kenmore Washer Diagnostic system:
Error Code modes to help isolate why a Kenmore Washer's Not Spinning or your Kenmore Washer Not Draining
Automatic Test Mode to test all Kenmore Washer Parts & Components
Manual Test Mode (IMPORTANT!) to test all Kenmore Washer Parts individually
Kenmore Washer Recalibration and Kenmore Washer Reset - this mode is NEEDED when you install a new Kenmore Washer Part!
My hope is this video helps you to identify what's going on with the washer. This doesn't show you how to install parts, buy parts, or diagnose the part via multimeter, but at least points you in the right direction. I plan on doing future videos on this.
Parts Links for Major Failure Points:
Shift Actuator (F7E1, F7E5): bit.ly/3eMD4BK
Washplate Hub: bit.ly/3zoWhB8
Lid Lock (Maroon-Colored): bit.ly/2W9m2qJ
Join our Appliance Discord Community! / discord
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.
Affiliate Link & Earnings Disclosure: bit.ly/3oXeu3B
If you need to buy an appliance part to fix your washer, make sure to use Appliance Part Pro's model lookup system to get the EXACT part you need, to ensure it works - plus, you can return it if it doesn't fix your issue: bit.ly/3pVxWyX
Tools I use in all videos can be found at my Amazon Idea Page: www.amazon.com...
Did this video help you out? Send me a tip, and help me make more Appliance Repair videos for people to watch for free!
PayPal: paypal.me/Bens...
CashApp: $BenjaminSchlichter

[@PapaGleb]

After watching several videos wasting time, it’s a good feeling to find someone who can make a clear video with clear good information. Kudos buddy :)

[@dooshbag45]

3 years later and you're out here saving people from so many headaches! Thank you! 👍

[@michaeldichiara5121]

Thank You for this well documented video. Just knowing where the service manual is located alone is a huge help. But your step by step guidance fills in the holes the service manual leaves out. After checking error codes and nothing came up I ran the Recalibration - no parts needed and washer is back doing the laundry. No question your video saved me some $$.

[@raulmarin1544]

Very good content. Thank you. just fixed my washer not working after I replaced the main board. When through manual mode test then recalibration,ran a cycle and it's working as I'm typing. Thanks againg. Keep the good work.

[@JaydeSerich20]

This video saved me a maintenance call! Thank you! I checked and no error codes. Moved on to recalibration and that did the trick. 👍

[@shandelleonard8661]

Thank you, I reset the codes (deleted the codes). Then waited about five minutes before unplugging the machine for 2 minutes (this part I saw on another video)- once plugged in, I closed and opened the door six (6) times, selected a cycle and it start working :) The sensing process take anywhere from 2-4 mins, so be patient and don't touch or change the cycle type while it's sensing. NOTE: The problem I was having was the machine never stopped sensing along with a flashing door locked light.

[@thegarcias1817]

Same with mine. I'm going to try at it again today.

[@CoachJHayesCHayes]

Reset or recalibrate?

[@qtdeshina]

I have F5E2 (lock/switch malfunction) and am going to try this method

[@sonyajones8581]

​@@CoachJHayesCHayesis

[@PapaGleb]

Had similar issue, took 10-15m to sense then spun so slow literally an 20 rpm’s but a calibration fixed all of it. Seems to be fine but still testing. Will report back if anything new is discovered. This video is so great and the guy the explained it all is too :)

[@WillRose3]

Thanks so much, helped me fix my problem! Washer was stuck on Sensing. Used the trick to fake the machine in thinking the lid was closed, found the F7E1 error code, recalibrate, and everything was good to go! So glad because it's 1am here and I needed those clothes clean for the morning!

[@rholbrook0587]

So helpful!! My stupid washer stopped mid-cycle and I was dreading the troubleshooting and repair, however, your clear instructions and the ability to CLEAR the code saved the day! I can't send you the money that I saved but you earned my respect and a subscription too. I had already seen a few of your videos but they were less about appliances I have, and more about what I was shopping for in stores. Many thanks from your friend in Tennessee!!

[@wrenchhead525]

This video was so detailed and so full of information… information that I never want to know.. so I dragged the machine outside.. I bought an old school 100% refurbished washing machine with 2 knobs.. for 300 bucks… bye-bye computerized junk!!! But thank you. Very nice video.

[@kevinpugh9780]

Thanks! I did codes and tried all morning. When you told where the manual was I took apart my machine to get it. I had replaced the shock absorbers and putting back the lid I saw something black hanging< It was the component that the lid shuts into to lock door and activate for machine to run! I popped it into its place and the machine started right up. Would have not known it had come loose except when I saw it when getting the manual. Thanks!!!!

[@seanweck]

Excellent info. You tube out ads in at the absolute worst timd

[@ritawashere5787]

Great video, so helpful. I shared it on a Pinterest board. I hope that helps your channel.😊 I was going to ask you a question but then I forgot it, I'll get back to you when it comes to mind.😂

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

Yep, make sure to post it as its own unqiue comment so I can see it hopefully!

[@LaceeHagerMcCracken]

👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 fixed my washer with this. Thanks so much

[@johnbbernardo9060]

Very clear explanation 👍🏼 thank you so much you’re Great 👍🏼

[@ronhanna3514]

Very good video and easy to understand it helped me a lot thank you.

[@billmcveagh1680]

First let me thankyou for your outstanding videos. I have a Kenmore Series 500 and I have replaced the speed sensor twice it worked for 1 year. This time it stopped the recalibration after a minute plus and the lid lock started flashing any ideas are welcome. Thanks so much for your help.

[@wookieefaced1595]

Thanks! You saved me from having to call a repair man!

[@theresakassa4889]

Ben, thank you so much for this video. My Maytag down and did same two years ago. Doesn’t want to fill! I’m on disability and repair costs just not in budget if you get what I mean. Last time repair gentleman twisted knob a few times, charged me $100 and it worked. Wasn’t here more than 2 minutes! So thank you more than I can express. Now gonna go see what’s wrong. Pray for me😉

[@666awesome666]

subbed...absolute legend

[@Me-ew8uh]

I have the exact same machine and I can't enter diagnostics with this method. Any idea why? thanks

[@sylvia2692]

Thank you so much for this presentation and the other one as well - you explained it so well, that I can do this on my own - I truly appreciate. I would've have to wait a month before someone could come for a repair. So I truly appreciate.!. Sylvia

[@gabrielcorrea1668]

So helpful thank you so much. The real mvp!!!!

[@jeffreyhastings1683]

Thank you so much, hopefully it helps

[@trickser24]

As a maintenance tech by trade this helps a lot

[@johnbbernardo9060]

Thank you for this really big help 👍🏼

[@brianwalsh6818]

What if the start button doesn’t work? It’s not stuck or anything, just no response when pushed. Works sometimes, others nothing happens when pushed. Thanks!

[@JewelzPositano]

Great Video!! I have a Kenmore 500 top loader and no green lights. Most of the time when my washer changes cycles, nothing happens. But the motor hums and if I get to it in time, I have to push the tub and it starts the cycle. What's wrong?? Thanks 💞💞💞

[@shannonwhite3721]

Hope you figured it out. Mines doing the same thing.

[@julionanpr4158]

Thanks. Excellent training.

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

You're welcome!

[@williamhanna5224]

Excellent !

[@reliefmango6]

Good vid

[@djmydlack]

WOW! Excellent!

[@danielrivera1686]

Thank you my friend!

[@dlay165]

Just found this video, our washer isn't changing from the sensing mode. Hopefully a reset will fix this.

[@a-kintero]

Thanks for this Video Ben!!!!!

[@chrisfaub4071]

very clear instructional video, unfortunately after several attempts i could not access the modes, reset, test, etc.

[@Maria-nl4gt]

Excellent video !! Thank you / do you know how to re set the water filler problem ? Mine does not fill up enough even with a very small load

[@earthmama9597]

We are getting soaked laundry on the bottom and almost dry laundry on top. Then it stops mid cycle! Sometimes we have to do 3+ extra spins. So frustrating!!! I hope this works. 🙏

[@scottchristie2819]

Thank You. Very helpful.

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

Glad it was helpful!

[@spaggard]

dude that was lovely

[@Tom-bm2kt]

My Kenmore (same model) wasn't emptying all the water during the spin cycle. I did the automatic test and all came back well. I did have a load balance and shifter error tho. But now it runs fine and empties water like a champ. I didn't really do anything but run some tests (and stabilize the machine). Maybe that did it...

[@ARC928]

Great video. thank you.

[@joyceforbes-smith8426]

What model # is this washer. Cant find mine.

[@mariaamezquita1983]

Thank you! 👍🤝

[@erikreally2241]

Good video 👍🏽got rte to the point

[@nahahaha875]

I forced the lid open and now it won't "lock" it just keeps clicking, any tips? I also removed the lid striker an manually inserted into the lock but no luck. :(

[@profile_01]

Got a Kenmore Series 300 and its automatic water level sensing appears to be malfunctioning. It never adds enough water. I know these are water saving washer's but it is not adding enough water even on small loads. Is there a way to turn off automatic water level sensing? The clothes on top stay on top the whole wash and do not properly clean.

[@earthmama9597]

One of our issues as well. Getting ready to diagnose, hope if won't be a major overhaul.

[@malliemolly6595]

How do you know if the manual test mode is running cause no sound is coming from the washer

[@centennialsuites5363]

If you ever need a vacation in Colorado let me know I need some washing machines gone through.

[@davidh7339]

Hi Ben, my Kenmore VMW washer seems to be stuck on the WASH cycle. There were no codes stored. When I did the Recalibration mode, my green lights did not move from right to left like in the video. They all lit up at the same time. The Drain pump was also running during the entire time. Do you think my washer has a control board issue? Thanks!

[@mrdingles5107]

I have exact same washer you were doing tests on. It's not drying my clothes completely. No clogs when I took pump out. And not to much water came out.. Any idea? Belt seems fine and motor looks good. No burning smell. Will try the diagnostic after I put it back together and maybe see something.

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

Try diagnostics and see how fast it spins. I have a Maytag video - same style as this Kenmore. Lots of tests for "Won't spin" and in one setting, I jam the door lock and show you how to run it to visually see drum spin. Could be running too slow because of a bad capacitor, or rods, potentially.

[@nancywilliams3481]

Wish I knew if my washing machine is repairable. Overfilled and not Properly loaded. Was being screamed at By my roommate. Returned from the store and the spin Cycle had not Completed and the red Light was flashing I corrected the load and unplugged the washer three times. Is there another sequence or procedures I can try?

[@stevelindsey4095]

I have an F3 and E6 code showing. Washer will not complete the cycle leaving clothes wet but tub drained. Thanks

[@arlyntorres8448]

Do you know what part do I have to replace if the washer is banging like crazy when spinning? It sounds as if the tub is loose. I've tried to search the web but I'm clueless, that's how I stumbled upon your video.

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

Likely the balancing rods. I have another video on an Amana that talks about it. Same style and exact procedure to replace. I'd just make sure washer is leveled perfectly first and isn't slightly off-balance. But over time, the rods WILL get bad to where it bangs around.

[@arlyntorres8448]

@@bensappliancesandjunk thank you so much!

[@nancywilliams3481]

My kenmore he washer was over loaded and not loaded properly. I came home to a red flashing light and found the doin cycle had not completed for obvious reasons. What should I do ? Please help me

[@nancywilliams3481]

Spin cycle has not completed

[@packleader1215]

Is your refrigerator running?

[@moongr3671]

Very good bit it didn't solve my problem 😀

[@carriev3307]

Can I also take it off this way to clean it?!

[@ilovephotos1919]

What if no lights light up after doing the turn the knob to 12, 3 clicks to the right, left once, and right once?

[@Webendowed]

On my unit (100 series) rotate selector one or more clicks to the l to clear sequence. r one click wait 1/2 second then right again wait .5 seconds then a third time to the right and wait again. 1 turn to the left wait .5 second then 1 click to the right then success. Note you have to do the series in less than 6 seconds to be successful. It auto clears after 5 minutes or you hold the start button for three seconds to clear the sequence to try again or if you are done.

[@donellhall4215]

How do I drain the washer when lod is locked?

[@raeganwalsh2071]

How do I get the lid lock off the washer kenmore

[@talvengardner7159]

Kenmore washer switch not coming on and agitate mode

[@Tata-iu3fy]

Hello. I have this exact washer. I am disabled and can't take it apart. What is the model of this? The washer is not advancing cycles on its own. I have to cancel load, then move the dial manually. Im thinking it needs a timer. I just bought it from Facebook market place yesterday. Seller ripped me off. Told me it worked with no issues.

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

This has an electronic control board, not a timer. You'd need to make absolutely sure it's a model with the green lights, which confirms it has an electronic control board

[@Tata-iu3fy]

@@bensappliancesandjunk okay. It is this exact model. Looks identical with same writing and lights. Knobs too.

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

@@Tata-iu3fy On a quick inspection, it would suggest the machine is not getting cold or enough cold water for the rinse cycle to properly activate. In this video, at 6:50 I show you how to get into manual testing. You'd want to activate the cold valve test and see if any water comes in. If no water comes in on cold water mode, you either have a bad water valve, the water input to your washer is bad (you'd want to turn cold water off, unplug the hose, and verify water can come out by opening the washer lid and trying to put cold water in it - if you get no cold water, the valve you turn on/off to get water is bad). There's a few things you can do to resolve this: check the filter on your water valve or replace it if the filter isn't totally clogged, again, assuming you get no water into the washer during the cold water test. Check that part and let me know what you find.

[@nataliedhmygvgkxmonsodgybh178]

I can't put my machine in diagnostic mode because the sensing light and lid lock light keep flashing in unison with one another

[@Amy-ce7op]

Try holding down the start button

[@jesswhite6249]

I have a problem. . I have a Kenmore elite 500 series model 110 .. it has a code that says an open circuit on motor . My issue is it doesn't agitate as aggressively as it should . I read the techs Manuel

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

Sounds like either the motor is going bad or the capacitor is bad, and won't shoot the right voltage to motor.

[@tamarasmith9922]

My washer works when it wants to.

[@cute_cat1715]

I have the same washer and it won't drain. It will still wash and spin and when I manually drain it it will rinse and spine. It just won't drain it hums like it can't drain. I did the test it and says the drain but I don't know where I find the parts for the washer, can you please tell me where I can find them?

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

Whats the model# of the washer?

[@geraldhynes8160]

I have lent in my washer and I can't see where it is coming from what do I do Ser 100 kenmore

[@cynthiabelle8016]

This was very confusing and long process??? Anyway this could be quick to check..?

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

No. Since there's no LCD display, it has to use the light values for display. It's this way on virtually all Whirlpool a d GE products.

[@alexhassen4027]

So I can not get to the trouble shoot process because the sensing light comes on right away when plugged in and I can not get passed it. What should I do?

[@Amy-ce7op]

Hold down the start button

[@paulperez3013]

I have a Kenmore Series 600s washer. It stop working. The instrument board turns on, it has a chime when it turns on, that's normal, the Cycle Knob spins and turn light on it are normal, But the problem is the lid door does not lock when closed, and all buttons like water temperature and options buttons, like 2nd rinse, do not respond when pressed. Those button don't make light, or sound. Help me

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

What did the error code mode show you?

[@burhanudinali483]

Can i ask,why my washer machine, can't spin process after rinse

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

If its this style it may be the shift actuator

[@Yash-jo8hv]

Will this work for all washer

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

Any Vertical Modular Washer (with the green oval lights on it): Whirlpool, Kenmore, Maytag, Crossley, Roper, Amana, and such.

[@dremungin63]

I tried this so many times but it want work

[@pamjohnston2095]

I dont have and light codes

[@mycleaningfairyishiding3020]

Do you happen to have a video for the reapair manual? Mine does not have that Manuel . or do you know a web link to that particular washer manual? this is my exact washer it will agitate and spin but when it goes to spin mode it wont spin but I can unlock it and go to drain/spin it will spin it?

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

Please check for error codes and see what code pops up. They're going to be the same on almost every Kenmore like this, and that should narrow down what it is.

[@carmac1652]

Hi Ben can you help me out .I sold a Kenmore top load washer direct drive . when it's on washer and it's agitating . it's making a knocking sound I don't know where it's coming from ? This is the first time I have encounter this . would you know what it could be ? Thanks Ben

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

Likely something in transmission or basket drive. Its rare, but once in awhile there'll be something in either that can cause a knocking noise. I'll ask my other techs.

[@carmac1652]

@@bensappliancesandjunk ok thanks I have never had this problem . it's weird because the transmission is dry no oil leak s ?

[@moongr3671]

So I've been trying to reset it but the sensing light it's on and the lock lid ..red light it's on too and does not let me do the rest because the green lights don't show..what can I do😭😭😭

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

Unplug, let it rest for 15min, plug back in. Wait about 1min, then input code to get to diagnostics and re-calibrate/ect

[@Amy-ce7op]

After u plug it back in, hold down start button

[@AtHomeWithTia]

What’s the cu ft of this washer?

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

3.5cf

[@russmeister2853]

Videos are always so old by the time I need them lop. But I'll ask anyway. I dknt understand the codes. F0E5. I read that as F5. I'm missing something

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

I have like 5 videos dealing with these diagnostic codes on these Whirlpool-built machine, so theres a few other videos in which I explain the codes for more understanding(s). F0E5 is an unbalanced load which would prevent the machine from spinning the clothes out properly. Is that your issue? F5E0 doesn't exist, but the F5 E1-2-3 codes are all lid lock related.

[@therealrollaz]

Discord link isn't working....

[@beckerle9732]

I am retired veterans I need help I had the same problem lid locked blinking all the time ,kenmore washer machine I need to ask if you have phone numbers please

[@DennisGender]

Kenmore washer that runs for 15 seconds and then shuts down for 5 minutes and then repeats this pattern .

[@burhanudinali483]

Can i ask,mu washing machine can't spin mode after rinse process

[@pitpat74728]

i want to no how to calbrate only

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

It's on the video

[@TheDogggrecords]

@@bensappliancesandjunk Unbelievable! You can lead a horse to water...😂

[@tricerank9792]

Can anything be done if the washer will not power on?

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

Unplug machine, wait 30sec then plug in. Listen for a very low click on control board. If you don't hear it, the board isn't powering up at all. If you hear the click, its another issue.

[@zinasager5205]

This is not Kemnore Elite < 5yrs old.

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

Did we mention it was a Kenmore elite?

[@quiquetupper]

Look

[@kennyjohns8847]

I have replaced the water inlet valve, lid lock, drain pump and actuator and still can not get it to actuate and drain. I did the recalibrate and there is no codes showing. Any suggestions it only 5 years old kenmore series 500

[@Ub3rNo0ber]

Did you ever come to a solution? I’m running into this EXACT issue as we speak.

[@kennyjohns8847]

@@Ub3rNo0ber NO I have not after 2 weeks still can not get it do. Just went got a new one. Sorry not any help good luck on yours if you figure it out please let me know

[@joeyg-smallengine1116]

Its hard to get my washer spinning. Sometimes it spins, sometimes it doesint. It's like the computer is mest up or something. What do u recommend?

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

I'm working on a video soon to deal w/ spinning modes and how to troubleshoot them. Did you find any error codes?

[@joeyg-smallengine1116]

@@bensappliancesandjunk no error codes popped up. I ended up just re setting it I think and now we are going to test it.

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

@@joeyg-smallengine1116 ok. Reset and see whats up. Within a week I'll have my video out thats pretty exhaustive on the issue

[@joeyg-smallengine1116]

@@bensappliancesandjunk thanks that's great 👍

[@airomu0]

When I wash clothes it smells bad. What can I do?

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

I have a recent video about cleaning them. Watch it for formula :-)

[@wertyfor]

One word: ''Overengineered''.

[@LouiseGravley-jo2ty]

No sound

[@bensappliancesandjunk]

No sound where? Works fine for me

[@rosana8697]

Not helpful at all. I'm not familiar with any of this. Time for a pro. 👀