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Error code reference

Whirlpool Dishwasher Error Code F8-E2

Drain motor electrical problem

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What the F8-E2 error code actually means

Your Whirlpool dishwasher is detecting an electrical problem with the pump that drains water out of the tub. This could be a bad connection, a burned-out drain pump motor, something jammed in the pump, or a problem with the control board. The dishwasher has stopped to prevent further damage.

Diagnostic procedure

The full F8-E2 procedure

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MyPros+ · DiagnosticsStep 1 preview
1
First diagnostic step
1. Check operation of drain motor during diagnostics. 2. Unplug dishwasher or disconnect power. 3. Check resistances of drain motor winding and all connections in the Drain circuit.
More steps, wiring diagram references, and verified part numbers
Includes expected resistance and voltage values, connector pinouts, and supersession notes for replacement parts.
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Most common causes of F8-E2

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Loose or corroded wiring connection in drain circuit
  2. 2Debris jammed in drain motor impeller
  3. 3Open drain motor winding
  4. 4Blown fuse on control board
  5. 5Failed drain motor drive circuit on control board

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Questions people ask about F8-E2

What does F8-E2 mean on a Whirlpool dishwasher?
F8-E2 indicates an electrical problem in the drain motor circuit. The control has detected a fault that could involve a loose wiring connection, an open motor winding, debris jammed in the drain pump impeller, a blown fuse on the control board, or a failure in the drain motor drive circuit. The dishwasher will not complete a cycle until the fault is resolved.
Will resetting my Whirlpool dishwasher clear the F8-E2 code?
Resetting the dishwasher may temporarily clear the code, but it will return if the underlying fault is not repaired. If a winding is open, a fuse is blown, or debris is blocking the impeller, the same electrical fault will be detected again as soon as the dishwasher attempts to drain. A reset is useful for confirming the repair after the actual problem is fixed.
How much does it cost to repair a Whirlpool dishwasher showing F8-E2?
Repair costs vary depending on the root cause. Clearing a debris jam from the drain pump impeller costs little to nothing if done yourself. Replacing a drain motor typically runs between $80 and $200 for the part, plus labor if a technician is hired. Control board replacement is the most expensive repair, often ranging from $150 to $400 or more for parts, so confirming the board is at fault before ordering is important.
Can I fix F8-E2 myself without calling a technician?
Some causes of F8-E2 are DIY-friendly. Clearing debris from the drain pump impeller and checking wiring connectors for looseness or corrosion can often be done at home after unplugging the dishwasher. However, testing motor winding resistance requires a multimeter, and diagnosing a failed control board drive circuit is best handled by someone with electronics experience.
Is it safe to use my dishwasher while it shows F8-E2?
It is not recommended to continue running the dishwasher with an active F8-E2 code. The drain motor circuit has a detected electrical fault, and running the appliance could worsen wiring damage or damage the control board further. The dishwasher will likely fail to drain properly, leaving standing water in the tub.

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