Whirlpool Cabrio Washer Error F51
What does code F51 mean on a Whirlpool washer?
The Cabrio Washer Error F51 happens when the main control board detects a bad RPS (Motor Rotor Position Sensor) or there is a wiring problem in the lower wiring harness. There are some steps below that will show you how to fix f51 error code.
- First try and reset the washer by unplugging it or killing power to it at your breaker or fuse panel for a few minutes then restore power to it. This will reset the main control board by allowing all the capacitors in the control to drain.
- Start a new cycle and if the error persists move on to the steps listed below.
- Remove the cover panel on the back of the the console and make sure that P5 and P10 plug connectors are properly connected to the board. Check the wiring from the board to the lower harness where it plugs in to the Rotor Position Sensor making sure that none of the wires are damaged.
- If visual inspection of the wiring at the board checks out then there are some diagnostic steps to take to figure out the problem. You will need an ohm/volt meter and understand how to use it.
- Usually this problem is caused by a failed RPS sensor and simply replacing it will fix the problem, but it can also be a wiring problem with the lower wiring harness or a bad main board not reading the sensor properly if you want the diagnostic troubleshooting tests and have a ohm/volt meter let us know and we will be glad to help. You can see this troubleshooting guide for in depth troubleshooting for the Kenmore Oasis Washer F51 Error. Since the Cabrio, Oasis and Bravos model washers all use the same drive system it also covers the F51 error code for those units as well.
- This repair also applies to the Maytag washer f51 error code.
We Offer Cabrio Washer Error F51 Repair Help
If you need the specific diagnostic steps to take for the cabrio washer f51 error then click on the live tech help button at the bottom right of the page and let one of our technicians help you in live chat. You can also visit our Tech Help Service Center and order a Custom F51 Error Repair Guide. If you need help with any other whirlpool cabrio washer f code or stored fault code just let us know.
Parts You May Need To Repair This Error
- Motor rotor position sensor : Whirlpool Cabrio washer F51 Error
Whirlpool W10183157 Sensor and Harness Kit for Washer:
We advise you to order the entire RPS kit because it comes with the sensor and entire lower wiring harness. This way if its a wiring issue causing the problem once you install this kit you will not have any more issues. This also applies to the Whirlpool Cabrio platinum washer,
The kit can be ordered from the link below, just click on the image:
2. The main control board
In order to give you the replacement part number for the control board you will have to give us the full model number of your washer as the boards change depending on the model. Also we suggest that you get the test procedures from us and do all the diagnostic tests needed to insure the main control board is bad before ordering it because they are fairly expensive.
This error code applies to the models below in the tag section and many more.
My Cabrio wouldn’t go into spin cycle but flashed the F51 error could, so after going through all the recommended tests and checking the wiring connections, I finally turned the washer on its side and tightened the allen bolt–problem solved! Thanks for the suggestion, everybody.
Thanks, I also had the F51 error, and it was a simple as tightening the bolt on the bottom!
Hello Christian,
I am glad you got it fixed and that is all it was. Good Job!
Thank you for this site and information! My 5-6 year old Cabrio washer gave me the F51 code, after stopping within two minutes of starting. Before I found your site, I tried unplugging the machine, hoping that level of reset would help; it did not. When I found your site, I read this first page and the Troubleshooting details link. I turned off the breaker, waited 5 minutes, then came back to the machine, opened the lid, and moved the drum up and down and all around. Then, I started a new cycle. That did the trick! In my humble opinion, consider adding the movement of the drum between your steps one and two, since it saved me from having to go further. Take care, y’all!
This site is great! I tightened the bolt, as suggested above, and the washer works perfect again – 5 minute fix.
Thanks for providing this guidance.
So I have the whirlpool cabrio wtw6600sB2
Its almost 13 years old. . I am still getting F 51 code and my problem still exist (drain and spin cycle at 12 minutes left or so when high spin occurs with no load or a load in washer. It stops to ul, unbalanced load, thumping loudly as the tub bangs around) I have replaced the whole rotor position sensor kit, including the plate, wire harness and the new sensor. What is my next step…..suspension check or bearing kit..ect.. I am stuck??????
The ul code means the washer is becoming out of level during spin and with it banging around like that, I would suspect the suspension rods are shot and need to be replaced.
We had the same issue with a loose bolt! We had an Error code F51. We were literally getting ready to purchase a new one the next day and I found this forum. My husband flipped the washer and sure enough…loose bolt! Thank yo u all SO SO much!
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My Cabrio was coming up with the F then 51 code. I immediately thought the worse and figured the worse. After doing some research on YouTube and then reading comments here I felt a little bit better. I went to take the sensor of this morning to try to clean it first to see if it would work. After I tipped the washer on its side to take the cover off and the Allen bolt was super loose. I tightened it up and is working fine now. Thank you to everyone that posted comments about this!!
I am getting an error F51 code and am not the least bit mechanically inclined. Who can I call to come and fix my machine? Is it just cheaper to buy a new one? I see that it is a harness most likely that needs to be replaced or could be something as simple as a loose bolt. On principle, I would rather buy a new machine than get ripped off and pay $200 (as an example) to have someone come tighten a loose bolt or replace a harness.
In most cases the F51 error is an easy repair. It’s usually caused by a failed Rotor Position Sensor (RPS Sensor). The Sensor comes in a kit with the harness for around 80.00. If you will go open a question and include your model number I will be glad to give you the part info and step by step instructions to change it. You can post it on the page linked below:
Post Your Question Here
I have a Whirlpool Cabrio washer. A few months ago we received the F51 error message. I replaced the washing machine sensor (not the wires/harness, however), and it resumed proper operation. Well, I am receiving the F51 error message again. Based upon your experience, can I expect this is going to be a reoccurring issue? Should I replace a different part before addressing the sensor again? It may be I simply move on from this machine if this is a chronic problem.
Thank you for your time, I look forward to your input.
I would advise replacing the harness and that should stop the error form coming back given the sensor has been replaced.
I had this issue. The bolt with the 1/4 Allen head was loose just tighten it. If it is hand loose the you have found the issue
found the same issue Tony just described tightened the allen bolt, washer is working normally now. I will remove the bolt & apply some loctite tomorrow so the problem doesn’t reoccur.
Where is this bolt
The bolt they are referring to is on the bottom of the rotor.
my whirlpool (model wtw8242ywo) indicated error F 51. after reset the machine will function properly. Will a coin or sock under the tub cause a F 51 error code?
If something is stuck under the tub causing the tub not to be able to move freely then yes it could.