How To Test and Replace the Control Board on a Whirlpool Washer

Have you noticed your Whirlpool top-load washer refusing to start, stopping mid-cycle, or displaying error codes? These could be signs that the main control board needs attention and we’ll help you diagnose and address the issue yourself!

If you need any replacement parts for your Whirlpool top load washer, 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 you need

• Phillips head screwdriver
• Putty knife
• Multimeter

Safety tips

Your safety should always be the top priority when performing any appliance repair.

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it. 
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• 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.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.

How to test and replace the main control board on a Whirlpool top-load washer

Step 1. Access the main control board

1. Move the washer away from the wall to access the rear panel.
2. Remove the screws securing the rear panel of the control panel.
3. Use a putty knife to release the spring clips by sliding it into the front corners of the control panel.
4. Roll the control panel up from the front and lift it off.

Step 2. Test the main control board

LIVE VOLTAGE WARNING: For this test, the washer needs to be plugged in and powered on. Please be very careful to protect yourself from electric shock, which has the potential to cause serious injuries. Don’t ever test live voltage if you’re uncomfortable using a multimeter.

1. Locate the J12 connector on the main control board where the power cord connects.
2. Set your multimeter to AC voltage and test between the black and white wires on the J12 connector.
3. Check for 120-volt AC at the J12 connector. If absent, the power cord is faulty.
4. If 120 volts AC is present, observe the diagnostic LED on the control board.
5. If the LED is steady on, replace the main control board.
6. If the LED is off, unplug the washer or disconnect power and remove the J18 connector from the board.
7. Plug the washer back in and recheck the diagnostic LED.
8. If the LED is flashing, inspect the keypad and encoder.
9. If the LED is not flashing, set your multimeter to DC voltage.
10. Place the black probe on pin 3 of the J18 connector and the red probe on pin 1 to measure for 5 VDC.
11. If 5 VDC is not present, replace the main control board.
12. If 5 VDC is present but the LED is not flashing, replace the main control board.
13. If the diagnostic LED is flashing and 120 volts AC is present, test the keypad and encoder for issues.

Step 3. Remove the main control board

1. Disconnect the pressure switch hose and unplug all wiring from the main control board.
2. Remove the two ¼” screws securing the control board and lift it out.

Step 4. Replace the main control board

1. Install the new control board by positioning it on the unit and securing it with screws.
2. Reconnect all wiring and the pressure switch hose to the new board.
3. Reattach the control panel to the washer and secure it with screws.
4. Replace the rear cover of the control panel.
5. Reconnect the washer to power by plugging it in or switching on the circuit breaker.

Need more help?

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you swap out the main control board in your Whirlpool top-load washer. If you still need a replacement part, just grab your model number and head to AppliancePartsPros.com, where we have over two million parts ready to ship. Most orders arrive in just two business days! For help tracking down the right part, give us a call at 1 (877) 477-7278. While you’re waiting, check out our DIY blog and explore our video tutorials on YouTube. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram for all the latest tips and repair guides!