Troubleshooting Whirlpool Front Load Washer Error F4E0

Struggling with the F4E0 error code on your Whirlpool front load washer? We’ll guide you through why this happens, what needs to be replaced, and how to troubleshoot it so you can get your washer back in action.

If you need any replacement parts for your Whirlpool front 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.

Necessary supplies

• Multimeter
• 1/4 inch nut driver
• T20 Torx driver
• 10mm socket

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 troubleshoot the error 

Below are the steps to identify and resolve the issue causing the F4E0 error code, including testing and replacing faulty parts.

Test the heating element

1. Remove the two screws at the back of the washer’s top panel using a 1/4-inch nut driver.
2. Slide the top panel back, lift it off, and set it aside.
3. Locate the double pink wire connector labeled HE2 and disconnect it.
4. Set your multimeter to resistance mode, indicated by an upside-down horseshoe symbol.
5. Test the resistance between the pink wires.
6. Verify the heating element has a resistance reading between 10 Ohms and 20 Ohms.
7. If the reading is outside this range, identify that the heating element is faulty and must be replaced.
8. If the heating element tests within range, conclude that the main control board is likely the problem.

NOTE: Generally, for every 1 degree in temperature difference, 2 Ohms could be added or subtracted. If the temperature in your home is cooler, resistance would be subtracted.

Remove the faulty heating element

1. Remove the back access panel screws using a 1/4-inch nut driver.
2. Disconnect the wires leading to the heating element.
3. Remove the heating element cover using a T20 Torx driver.
4. Loosen the tension nut on the heating element using a 10mm socket.
5. Pull the heating element out of the washer.

Install the new heating element

1. Insert the new heating element into the tub and position it correctly.
2. Tighten the 10mm nut to secure the new heating element.
3. Reconnect the wires to the new heating element.

Reassemble and reset

1. Reattach the heating element cover using the T20 Torx driver.
2. Reinstall the back access panel and secure it with the screws using a 1/4-inch nut driver.
3. Reconnect the wire to the HE2 terminal on the main control board.
4. Slide the top panel back into position and secure it with the screws using a 1/4-inch nut driver.
5. Plug the washer back in or flip the circuit breaker on to restore power.

Still need assistance?

Thanks for taking the time to check us out! We hope this guide did the trick for your Whirlpool front load washer. If you’ve got other projects to tackle, why not browse our troubleshooting guides and videos for more tips? If you need any replacement parts, head over to AppliancePartsPros.com with your model number. You can also chat with a Pro, compare images and wiring diagrams and read our blog. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube and follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram for more inspiration!