How to Run Manual Parts Tests on a Whirlpool Washing Machine
Ben Schlichter and 2 other contributors
Last updated on Jun 5, 2026
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Introduction
Go to step 1 ↓Use this guide to enter diagnostic mode and manual parts testing mode on Whirlpool-style top-load washers with oval LED segments below the dial. Manual parts tests help you confirm whether components like the lid lock, agitation, and spin functions are working without guessing.
What you need
Tools
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T15 Torx Screwdriver$7.99
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Step 1 Confirm compatibility and read safety warnings
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Use these steps on washers with oval LED segments below the control dial.
Ask FixBot
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Step 2 Reset the washer to a known state
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Rotate the control dial counterclockwise until it points straight up at the 12 o’clock position.
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Unplug the washer from the wall outlet.
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Wait about one minute.
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Plug the power cord back in.
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Step 3 Enter diagnostic mode
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Rotate the dial counterclockwise one full turn (360 degrees).
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Turn the dial right three clicks, left one click, then right one click.
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Finish with the dial pointing to the three o’clock position (all the way to the right).
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Confirm diagnostic mode by checking that all the lower panel lights flash on and off.
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Step 4 Enter manual parts testing mode
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With the lights flashing, turn the dial clockwise three clicks until the Spin and Done lights are illuminated.
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Press the Start button.
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Confirm manual parts testing mode by checking that all lights turn off.
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Step 5 Remove the lid striker for a lid lock bypass
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Make sure the washer is not running, and keep the lid open.
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Locate the lid striker on the underside of the lid.
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Use a T15 Torx screwdriver to remove the two lid striker screws.
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Step 6 Place the striker into the lid lock
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Remove the striker from the lid.
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Insert the striker into the lid lock opening with the striker facing toward the console.
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Seat the striker so it fits in the lock properly.
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Step 7 Run manual parts tests with the correct lock and speed conditions
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Start manual testing with the lid lock test while no indicator lights are illuminated.
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Engage the lid lock for the next four tests because the washer won’t run them unless it detects a successful lock.
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Wait until the basket is fully stopped because the basket speed sensor must read 0 RPM for those tests to run.
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Turn the dial through the available tests and note that passing the heavy agitation test returns the washer to the first test, the lid lock.
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Step 8 Exit manual parts testing mode
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Press and hold the Start/Pause button for about six seconds.
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Wait for the lid lock to turn off and for the washer to reset back to normal operation.
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Reinstall the lid striker onto the lid with its two screws before using the washer normally. Use manual parts testing along with stored error codes to narrow down what’s failing, and don’t leave the lid lock bypassed after troubleshooting. Repair didn't go as planned? Ask our Answers community for help.
