Easy Fixes for Error F11 on a Whirlpool Washing Machine

Some models of Whirlpool duet washers display a variety of error codes to indicate different issues that may occur in the unit. The F11 Whirlpool washer error code signifies a problem with communication between critical control components in the washer. We’ll explain what causes the F11 code, the steps to diagnose the problem, and how to ultimately fix this error on Whirlpool duet washers.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your appliance while you’re troubleshooting, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

What does error code mean?

The F11 error code deals with serial communication between the washer’s central control unit (CCU) and the motor control unit (MCU). These two electronic boards exchange data to coordinate the various components during a wash cycle. An F11 code implies there is an interruption in this communication connection.

The CCU acts as the main computer and decision-maker. It processes inputs from the control panel and other sensors and activates different parts accordingly – valves, motor, drain pump, etc. The Motor control board specifically controls the drive motor based on commands from the CCU. When these two can’t “talk” to each other properly, the washer ceases functioning and displays F11.

Some common causes of the F11 error code include:

• Faulty wiring connections between the CCU and MCU
• Defective motor control unit
• Bad wire harness
• Failed drive motor
• Bad central control unit

Without addressing what’s causing the communication failure, the washer will be stuck in F11 mode and unable to operate normally.

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of injury from electric shock.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with bare wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check your user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions for your part or appliance. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any heating parts to cool down before working on it. 
• Take pictures or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting to prevent any problems with reassembly.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.

Troubleshooting steps

Follow this troubleshooting guide when your Whirlpool washer shows an F11 error code:

Step 1: Check wire harness connections

The first step is verifying all the wiring harness connections between the CCU, MCU, and drive motor are secure. Check that the connectors are fully inserted and latched. Wiggle them gently to confirm. Inspect the wires for any breaks, damage, or corrosion. Tighten any loose contacts or terminal screws as needed. Additionally, make sure to check there are no circuit breaker errors.

Step 2: Inspect the drive system

With the wiring checked, next, examine the drive system components. The drive belt should not be cracked, excessively worn, or loose. Replace if needed. Check the motor windings by using a multimeter to measure the resistance between the following motor connector test points:

• Pin 1 to Pin 2 – Normal reading is approximately 6 ohms
• Pin 2 to Pin 3 – Normal reading is approximately 6 ohms
• Pin 1 to Pin 3 – Normal reading is approximately 6 ohms

If the resistance readings between the motor connector pins deviate significantly from 6 ohms, it likely indicates a problem with the motor windings. Readings of infinity or wildly abnormal values point to a defective drive motor that requires replacement.

Step 3: Test the MCU

The next logical culprit is the motor control unit itself. First, check all wiring connections to the MCU board. Then do a diagnostic self-test on the MCU. If it fails the test, replacement is required. Here are the steps to perform a diagnostic self-test on the Motor Control Unit (MCU:

1. Put the washer control in the OFF state by pressing the Power/Cancel button.
2. Access the MCU by removing the lower front toe panel and opening the small access door on the plastic MCU housing.
3. Locate the test point pins on the MCU control board. They will be labeled “VCC”, “IN/OUT”, and “GND”.
4. Connect a jumper wire from the VCC pin to the IN/OUT pin. This initiates the self-test mode.
5. Check the following while in test mode:
   • – LED1 should turn on solid. This indicates +5V power supply is OK.
   • – LED2 should be blinking. This shows the onboard microcontroller is operating.
   • – The motor should be ramping up and down repeatedly from 0-100% speed. Listen for the motor pitch changing.
6. If any of those checks fail, it indicates a failure of the MCU that requires board replacement.
7. To exit the self-test mode, remove the jumper from the test pins. Reattach the MCU access cover and toe panel.
8. Verify proper MCU operation by running a full diagnostic cycle test.

Step 4: Replace wire harness

If connections are secure and components check out OK, the issue may be a damaged wire harness. Replace the harness that connects the motor, MCU, and CCU.

Step 5: Replace the drive motor

As a last resort, if the error code F11 remains after all other troubleshooting, replace the drive motor. Though less likely, a bad motor that sends irregular tachometer signals back to the MCU can potentially disrupt serial communication.

Following this sequence for diagnosing an F11 error should lead you to the root cause in an orderly and cost-efficient manner. Taking time to check each part will pay off in resolving the communication breakdown between those two key control boards.

Step 6: Resetting after fixing the error

Once any parts have been replaced, you’ll need to reset the washer:

1. Unplug the washing machine from the power source for 1 full minute. This gives time for the controls to reset.
2. Plug the washer back in and power it on.
3. Clear any error codes by pressing the Pause/Cancel button twice.

The washer should now be able to operate and advance through wash cycles normally without the F11 code appearing. 

Additional information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your washer working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos. 

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more.

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