Whirlpool Washer F5 E3 Error Code: Troubleshooting Guide

Has your Whirlpool washer suddenly started blinking an error code at you? While this is always an unwelcome surprise, error codes are a simple way of helping you pinpoint the nature of the malfunction. If your washer is showing the F5 E3 error code, that suggests there is a problem relating to the door locking mechanism. Although this might sound complicated, there are some simple DIY fixes you can try before calling in a professional—read on to find out what to do. 

This guide applies to all commonly owned models of Whirlpool washers, including:

GHW9100LW1

GHW9100LW2

GHW9150PW0

GHW9150PW4

GHW9200LW0

LSQ8243HQ0

LSR7233EQ0

LSR8233EQ0

LXR9245EQ1

WFW72HEDW0

WFW9150WW00

WTW4800XQ2

WTW4800XQ4

WTW5000DW1

XHPC155XG1

XHPC155XL0

XHPC155XL1

XHPC155XR0

XHPC155XR1

XHPC155XW0

XHPC155XW1

Check that the door is firmly closed

Ensuring the door to the washer is properly closed should be your first step, as it’s possible you failed to close it firmly enough before starting the cycle. Press firmly on the door until you hear a click, then check to see if the error code has disappeared. If the code has gone, run your wash cycle as normal and watch to see if the error comes back. If it doesn’t, it was likely just due to the door not being improperly closed and you can continue using your washer as normal. 

Reset your washer

If you’ve tried the above step and checked the door is firmly closed, a simple reset may be the solution. Sometimes, an error code can appear due to a temporary glitch caused by a software malfunction or power surge, and resetting your washer will fix it. 

• Begin by cutting power to your washing machine. You can either unplug it from the outlet or flip “off” the circuit breaker that corresponds to your washer. 
• Wait for five minutes to allow your Whirlpool washer to fully reset and clear any glitches. 
• Restore power to your washer. 
• Run a quick test cycle to see if the error code still appears. If it is, an underlying cause will likely need to be fixed. Then, proceed to the next step in our guide to help you troubleshoot the problem. 

Check the door and latch for obstructions

If the door appears to be properly shut but the F5E3 error code is displayed, there could be a problem with the door latch. The latch ensures that the door to your Whirlpool washer is firmly closed to prevent leaks, and if something is obstructing the latch, then it may register that the door is open even when it appears to be closed. To check this:

• Carefully inspect the latch area for any blockages. Clumps of lint, dirt, or even stray small laundry items can become wedged in the latch mechanism, preventing it from closing properly. If you see any obvious foreign objects in the latch area, remove and dispose of them, then check to see if the error code has cleared. 
• If you can’t see any obvious blockages but the latch mechanism appears dirty, a thorough cleaning could help. Use a soft cloth and a mild detergent or cleaning spray to remove any mildew, grime, or lint from the latch mechanism. Once it is completely cleaned, try closing the door firmly, then check to see if the error code has cleared. If it persists, move on to the next step in our guide. 

Review the load size

An overloaded washing machine can be the culprit behind an F5E3 error code, and luckily, this is a very easy problem to solve! If you have too much laundry in your washer, the pressure of the clothing will push against the door, which can interfere with the door latch sensors. This can cause your washer to register that the door is improperly closed, even when it is closed firmly. 

If this is the issue, you will find that the error code disappears as soon as you remove the laundry from your washer and close the machine. To ensure proper load size for future loads:

• Review the recommended load size in your Whirlpool manual and ensure you’re following recommendations. Your washing should always have enough space to move during the cycle to ensure optimal cleaning. 
• Do regular small loads instead of waiting for a large amount of laundry to accumulate. 
• Consider hand washing large bulky items such as blankets or comforters if they exceed the recommended load size. 

Inspect the door seal

If you’ve ruled out latch issues, the door seal could be behind the F5E3 error code. In front-loading washers, the seal or gasket ensures that the door closes tightly and prevents water from leaking out during the cycle. Here’s what to do:

• Carefully inspect the rubber seal for any damage, obstructions, or buildup. 
• If the seal is dirty with mildew or detergent buildup, clean it thoroughly with a cloth and detergent. 
• Look around the seal for foreign objects, such as coins or buttons, that might affect its function. 
• If the seal looks damaged, it will need to be replaced. Order a replacement seal directly from Whirlpool, ensuring it is compatible with your washing machine model. Then, remove the faulty seal and replace it according to the instructions in your manual. 

Replace the door latch

If none of the other troubleshooting steps have fixed the error code, the door latch is likely faulty. Fixing this is more complicated than the other solutions in our guide, so only attempt it if you’re an experienced DIYer. 

• Use a multimeter to test the door latch for continuity and confirm that it is faulty. 
• Order a replacement part, ensuring it is compatible with your model of washing machine. 
• Cut power to your washer, then remove and replace the faulty latch. If you prefer, you can get a professional technician to help you with this part, as it will require working with electrical wiring.
• Once the latch has been replaced, run a test cycle to ensure the error code is gone.