Whirlpool Dryer F3 E2 Error Code Fix: Moisture Sensor & Limiter Guide (Steve’s DIY)

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Note: Accurate sensing is key to energy efficiency. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases of the parts recommended in this guide.

Is your dryer stopping after just 5 minutes with a Whirlpool Dryer F3 E2 Error? This code indicates a Moisture Sensor failure. The dryer’s brain can’t feel if your clothes are wet, so it shuts down to prevent overheating!

⚠️ Steve’s Field Notes: Before you buy a new sensor, check for dryer sheet residue. If you use a lot of fabric softener sheets, a thin invisible film can coat the sensor bars, triggering the F3 E2 code. Try cleaning them with a little rubbing alcohol first!

🎥 The Repair Video: Testing the Moisture Sensor

In this guide, you’ll see how to locate the sensor bars inside the drum and how to use a multimeter to check the wiring harness for the F3 E2 error.

👨‍🔧 Steve’s Key Repair Timestamps:

  • 00:20 – Symptoms: Why the dryer thinks the clothes are dry.
  • 00:45 – Locating the two metal moisture sensor bars inside the lint filter area.
  • 01:05 – **The Wiggle Test:** Checking the wiring harness behind the front panel.
  • 01:25 – Using a multimeter to test for continuity across the sensor circuit.
  • 01:40 – How to properly clean the bars to restore “sensing” ability.

🛒 Recommended Fix-It Kit

🛠️ How to Fix Whirlpool Dryer F3 E2 Error

  1. The Rubbing Alcohol Trick: Take a cloth with rubbing alcohol and scrub the two metal bars inside the drum. This removes softener film.
  2. The Wiggle Test: Unplug the dryer, remove the front panel, and ensure the thin wires going to the sensors are firmly connected.
  3. Continuity Test: Use your multimeter on the “Ohms” setting. Touch the probes to the wiring harness pins. If you get no reading, the circuit is open (broken wire or sensor).
  4. Inspect the CCU: Ensure the harness is plugged securely into the main control board.

🤔 Steve’s Quick Troubleshooting FAQ

Q: Can I still use the dryer if I only use “Timed Dry” cycles?

Steve: Yes! Timed Dry doesn’t use the moisture sensors. If you’re waiting for parts to arrive, switch to Timed Dry to get your laundry done. But remember, the F3 E2 code might still flash until the sensor is fixed.

Q: I cleaned the bars but the F3 E2 code is still there. What now?

Steve: Check the Wiring Harness. These wires are very thin and often get pinched or disconnected during drum rotation. Perform a thorough “Wiggle Test” from the sensor all the way back to the control board.

“I’ve documented every common code from my field notes. Click a button above to find your next DIY solution.” — Steve Johnson