How to test & replace the user interface control panel on a front-loading Whirlpool washer

The user interface control panel on your Whirlpool front load washer is what allows you to interact with the machine, it’s how you select wash cycles, adjust settings, and keep track of your laundry’s progress. If this panel stops working or fails, it can make it impossible to control your washer. We’ll walk you through how to test the user interface control panel and, if necessary, replace it to get your washer back to working as it should.

If you need any replacement parts for your appliance, 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.

Important: The error code information provided in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. The disassembly information is based on models starting with WFW95HEXW. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

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.

Read more: How To Replace A Washer’s Spider Arm Assembly

Tools and materials needed

• 1/4 inch nut driver
• Flathead screwdriver
• Multimeter
• T25 torx driver

Important: The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it. Always consult the user manual or refer to any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the recommended tools for your appliance model.

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Testing and replacement steps

Step 1: Access the user interface control panel

1. Unplug the washer or turn off the breaker to ensure there’s no power running to the machine.
2. Using a 1/4-inch screwdriver, remove the screws at the back of the top panel. Once the screws are out, slide the panel back and lift it up.
3. Place the top panel to the side for now, giving you access to the washer’s internal components.

Step 2: Test the user interface control panel

LIVE VOLTAGE WARNING: For this test, the appliance 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. Plug the washer back in. 
2. Set your multimeter to measure DC Volts (the setting that looks like a “V” with a dotted line).
3. Move to the user interface control panel and find connection C2, which should have several blue wires.
4. Place your multimeter probes on the blue wire at pin 5 and the blue wire at pin 2. You should see 7 Volts DC.

If there is correct voltage but the control panel does not respond, the user interface control panel has failed and needs to be replaced.

Step 3: Replace the user interface control panel

1. Disconnect the power before replacement.
2. Using your 1/4-inch nut driver, remove the two 1/4-inch screws from each corner of the user interface control panel.
3. Slide out the detergent drawer to access the screws behind it.
4. Using a T25 Torx driver, remove the two screws behind the detergent drawer.
5. Use a flathead screwdriver to lift the locking tabs holding the user interface control panel in place. Rotate the panel up and out.
6. Unplug the wire connection between the user interface control panel and the washer.
7. Plug the wire connection back into the new user interface control panel.
8. Set the new panel into the front of the washer, aligning it properly. Push it back until it locks into place.

Step 4:  Reassemble the washer

1. Secure the user interface panel with the two 1/4-inch screws and the T25 screws behind the detergent drawer.
2. Place the top panel back on the washer behind the user panel. Slide it forward and secure it with the 1/4-inch screws removed earlier.
3. Slide the detergent drawer back into place.
4. Reconnect the power cord or turn the breaker back on.
5. Run a test cycle to ensure the user interface control panel is functioning properly.

Read more:  FH Error Code: How to Resolve on a Whirlpool Duet Washer

Additional information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your Whirlpool front load 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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