Fixing Whirlpool Washer F06 error code by inspecting the motor wiring and replacing the motor.

Whirlpool Washer F06 Error: Video Guide to Fix Motor Tachometer Fault

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Note: This guide is based on verified repair protocols. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

The washer fills, starts to spin, and then suddenly stops with a jerk. The display flashes F06. This code stands for “Drive Motor Tachometer Error”. Essentially, the main computer is sending power to the motor, but the tachometer (the speedometer) isn’t sending any signal back.

⚠️ Money-Saving Alert: F06 looks scary, but it doesn’t always mean your motor is dead. In many cases, it’s just a loose wire harness caused by years of vibration. Check the connections (Step 1) before buying a $200 motor!

The Fix: You need to inspect the wiring harness between the Motor Control Unit (MCU) and the Motor. If the wiring is good, the Tachometer (built into the motor) has failed, and the motor needs replacement.

🎥 The Repair Video

Watch this practical guide by Scott The Fix-It Guy. He shows a quick way to access the motor. Pay attention to the wire harness plugs—this is where your problem likely hides.

Note from Steve: At 02:15, he disconnects the motor wire harness. Inspect these pins closely for burn marks or loose connections.

🛒 Parts & Tools Checklist

If the wiring check passes, the tachometer sensor itself is likely dead. On most Whirlpool Duet models, the tachometer is not sold separately; it is part of the motor assembly.

🔌 Step 1: The Harness Inspection (Try This First)

Unplug the washer first!

  1. Access the Motor: Remove the lower front panel (or rear panel, depending on your model) to reveal the motor at the bottom.
  2. Check the Plug: Find the white plastic connector plugged into the motor.
    • Is it loose? Push it in firmly.
    • Is it dirty? Unplug it and check for green corrosion. Clean it if needed.
    • Are wires broken? Tug gently on each wire. Sometimes a wire breaks inside the insulation due to vibration.
  3. Test Run: If you found a loose plug, secure it (maybe add a zip tie), put the panel back, and run a “Drain & Spin” cycle. If F06 is gone, you saved $200!

🛠️ Step 2: Replace the Motor

If the wires are perfect but F06 persists, the internal tachometer coil is shot. You must replace the motor.

  1. Remove the Belt: Roll the drive belt off the large pulley (like a bicycle chain).
  2. Unplug: Disconnect the wire harness and the ground wire.
  3. Unbolt: Remove the mounting bolts holding the motor to the tub. (Warning: The motor is heavy, support it with your hand!).
  4. Swap: Slide the new motor in, bolt it down, and reconnect the wires.
  5. Re-belt: Loop the belt around the motor shaft first, then roll it onto the large tub pulley.
💡 Steve’s Installation Tip: When reinstalling the belt, make sure it is centered on the grooves. Turn the drum by hand a few times to ensure the belt tracks straight and doesn’t slip off.

🔄 Step 3: Reset the MCU

Sometimes the Motor Control Unit (MCU) needs a reboot.

  1. Unplug the washer for 5 minutes.
  2. Plug it back in.
  3. Open and close the door 3 times within 12 seconds (this resets some older Duet logic boards).
  4. Run a test cycle.

Motor definitely dead? Get the OEM replacement:

🚀 Recommended Replacement Part

Whirlpool Drive Motor Assembly (OEM)

See Price on Amazon