7 Common Whirlpool Cabrio Washer Problems (and Solutions)

Reviews of Whirlpool Cabrio washers generally show some owners are very happy with their purchase, while many others report being unsatisfied for a range of reasons. This guide outlines the 7 most common issues, with instructions for how to fix the problem. Before removing any access panels, make sure to disconnect the power and water supplies.

1. Washer Is Too Noisy

For the washer to function correctly and not excessively vibrate or shake, it needs to sit level on the floor. Using a leveling tool to check it is balanced and then adjusting the washer’s legs will often fix a noise (and performance) issue. To reduce noise (and stop water from leaking), the washing load also needs to be balanced in the tub.

When the load is unbalanced, the washer will often display a “uL” error code. First, the washer will try to rebalance the load itself. If this fails, you will need to rebalance the load yourself.

If these tips fail to reduce the noise issue, the washer likely has a worn-out shock absorber, suspension rod, dampening strap, spring, or tub bearing. If defective, these components will usually cause squeaking, thuds, and violent shaking. The washer cabinet will need to be removed to check and replace these parts.

2. Not Enough Water

A common complaint with Whirlpool Cabrio High-Efficiency (HE) washers is that the load is not completely covered with water. However, Whirlpool advises that this is normal and the quality of the wash will not be affected.

If the washer legitimately does not have enough water, the water inlet valve, water pressure, and water inlet hoses should be checked to find a solution to the issue.

3. Washer Not Cleaning Clothes

Another common complaint is that the Whirlpool Cabrio is not cleaning the clothes sufficiently. Whirlpool advises that using an HE detergent, ensuring the load and washer are balanced, and following the instructions in the washer’s manual should resolve the issue. If the issue persists, one of the components mentioned below may be causing the problem.

4. Washer Won’t Spin

The most common causes of a Whirlpool Cabrio not spinning are:

• Defective lid switch
• Broken drive belt
• Loose drive pulley nut
• Defective shift actuator

The lid switch is a safety feature that stops the washer from spinning when the lid is open. The lid switch should be tested with a multimeter to ensure it has continuity.

The drive belt can be accessed by removing the access panels and checking that the belt is not worn or broken.

The drive pulley nut is located on the drive pulley. Over time, the nut can become loose. Removing the access panels and tightening the nut may get the washer spinning again.

The shift actuator shifts the washer between spin and agitate. A problem with the shift actuator will often cause an F7 or E1 error code. The actuator is found underneath the washer. The actuator can be tested with a multimeter; however, it can be a complicated process, so is best left to a trained professional.

5. Washer Won’t Start

The most common causes of a Whirlpool Cabrio washer not starting are:

• No power
• Damaged power cord
• Faulty timer
• Defective control board

If the washer will not start, checking for a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse is the most common solution to the issue.

The power outlet and power cord may also have become damaged. The power outlet and power cord can be tested with a multimeter to determine if they need to be replaced.

The timer and control board do not usually become defective, but if the above solutions have not fixed the issue, they should be checked and replaced to fix the problem.

6. Washer Won’t Drain or “LD” Error Code

The most common causes of a Whirlpool Cabrio washer not draining are:

• Malfunctioning drain pump
• Blocked drain hose
• Defective lid switch

If the washer will not drain or it stops draining and displays an “LD” error code, it is usually because of a malfunctioning drain pump or blocked drain hose. The “LD” error code refers to “long drain” and occurs when the washer is taking too long to drain.

An issue with the pump may be caused by a foreign object or small item of clothing that has gotten through the washer’s filters and is restricting the pump. The drain pump’s impellers may also be damaged and restricting the pump. The drain pump can also fail electrically. A multimeter can be used to determine if the drain pump motor has continuity. The washer’s access panels will need to be removed to examine the pump.

If the drain hose is blocked or twisted, the washer may not be able to drain. Both the external and internal drain hoses should be checked for any issues.

In some cases, a defective lid switch may be preventing the washer from draining. The lid switch can be tested with a multimeter for continuity.

7. Washer Stops Mid Cycle

The most common causes of a Whirlpool Cabrio washer stopping mid-cycle are:

• Loss of power
• Faulty lid switch
• Malfunctioning control board

If the washer stops mid-cycle, the first thing to check is if a circuit breaker has been tripped or a fuse has blown.

Alternatively, the washer stopping mid-cycle could be because the lid switch has failed.

A fault with the control board can also cause the washer to stop mid-cycle or to stop and start. A problem with the control board will often cause the washer to display an “F1” or “E2” error code. Control boards rarely fail, and they can be difficult to check with a multimeter. They can, however, be checked for signs of burning or a shorted circuit.

It is also possible that another part may be failing. Once the power supply and lid switch have been checked, removing the washer’s access panels and checking for signs of failure on components like the water inlet valve, drain pump, and drive motor is recommended before replacing the control board.