Washer will not start a cycle, display shows F01, sometimes accompanied by a relay clicking sound from control area.

Safety first: Unplug the washer or switch off the breaker before removing any panels. Capacitors on the control board can hold a charge briefly after power is removed.

Step-by-step:

• Power reset: Unplug the washer for 5 minutes, then plug back in and try a rinse/drain cycle. Sometimes a transient fault clears.
• Check power supply: Verify the outlet has 120V AC using a meter. Confirm the washer’s power cord is not damaged and is fully seated in the outlet.
• Inspect wiring to CCU: Remove the top panel (typically 3 screws at the back, slide back and lift). Locate the main control (CCU) at the rear/top. Check all harness connectors for being fully seated, no corrosion, and no burnt pins.
• Look for board damage: Visually inspect the CCU for burnt spots, cracked solder joints, or a burnt smell. If present, the board is likely failed.
• Check motor harness: At the bottom rear, inspect the harness from CCU to motor and motor control (if separate). A shorted motor or harness can trigger F01.
• Test continuity: With power off, use a multimeter to check for shorts between motor windings and chassis ground. If the motor is shorted, replace it before installing a new CCU.
• Replace CCU if needed: If wiring and motor test good and F01 persists, replace the main control board with the correct Whirlpool part number for your model. Transfer each connector one at a time to avoid miswiring.

When to call a technician: If you are not comfortable testing live voltage or diagnosing control boards, have a qualified technician perform these checks and replace the CCU.