mypros+
Error code reference

Whirlpool Washer Error Code 10-3

Other

Avg. service call
$285
National average. Trip fee plus diagnostic plus labor. Before parts.
MyPros+ 3-day pass
$9.95
Same diagnostic steps, on your phone. Start now.
You keep in your pocket
~$275
Even before you buy the part.
Skip the service call. Fix it yourself.
Full procedure unlocks instantly.
Get Started

What the 10-3 error code actually means

Your Whirlpool washer is showing a problem with its drying fan, which helps circulate air during the drying portion of a cycle. The fan either has a loose wire connection or the fan motor itself has failed. A technician will need to test the fan and inspect the wiring to determine the exact cause.

Diagnostic procedure

The full 10-3 procedure

Step 1 is visible so you can confirm you are on the right page. The remaining steps, the ones that tell you whether to actually replace a part, unlock with any pass.

MyPros+ · DiagnosticsStep 1 preview
1
First diagnostic step
Check fan operation during Service Diagnostics test cycle. Unplug dishwasher or disconnect power. Replace fan if fan does not spin freely.
More steps, wiring diagram references, and verified part numbers
Includes expected resistance and voltage values, connector pinouts, and supersession notes for replacement parts.
Unlock 10-3 procedure $9.95

Or subscribe: $29/month for unlimited access to all codes plus Max AI diagnostics.

Most common causes of 10-3

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Loose wiring connection in fan circuit
  2. 2Failed (open) fan motor
  3. 3Seized or obstructed fan
  4. 4Damaged wiring harness

Most DIYers save hundreds by diagnosing before ordering parts.

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass

Questions people ask about 10-3

What does 10-3 mean on a Whirlpool washer?
Error code 10-3 on a Whirlpool washer signals a drying fan fault. It indicates the control board has detected either a loose connection in the fan circuit or an open fan motor condition. The drying fan is responsible for air circulation during drying, and this code will appear when the fan circuit is not functioning correctly.
Is it safe to keep using my washer with a 10-3 error?
Continuing to run the washer with this error is not recommended. The drying fan is a functional component of the drying cycle, and operating without it can result in incomplete drying performance. It is best to address the fault before running additional cycles.
How much does it cost to repair a 10-3 error on a Whirlpool washer?
Repair costs depend on the root cause. If only a loose wiring connector needs to be reseated, the cost may simply be a service call fee, typically in the range of $75 to $150. If the fan motor needs replacement, parts and labor combined could range from $150 to $350 or more depending on the specific model and local labor rates.
Can I fix error code 10-3 myself?
A knowledgeable DIYer can start by unplugging the washer and inspecting the wiring connectors at the fan motor and control board, reseating any that appear loose. You can also manually check whether the fan blade spins freely by hand. If the connections are secure and the fan still does not operate during diagnostics, motor replacement is typically required and may be more straightforward to have a technician handle.
Will resetting the washer clear the 10-3 error code?
Resetting the washer by unplugging it briefly may temporarily clear the displayed code, but the error will return if the underlying cause is not repaired. A loose connection reseated during inspection might resolve the fault for good, but a failed motor will continue triggering the code until it is replaced.

78,000+ service manuals · 160,000+ error codes · 55+ brands

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass