Whirlpool WTW4816FW3: Bad control board and Lowes warranty issues

[whirlpool862]

All of the new new VMWs seem to get control board issues, actually a very common problem with these and you’re not alone. A new board is expensive but Whirlpool has issued a recall on the boards for washers that are out of warranty so they can be bought for free.

Most of them are 2023 models but a lot of the 2024 models with the non-recalled boards also have this issue.

I own the WTW4900 washer, glad it was bought before this issue became common. The board is still good on that washer. Mine is a 2014.

I think it was in late 2022 or early 2023 when the boards started to really have this problem. Not sure if the 2025 models have the issue pitched or not.

This issue has occurred on some older VMWs, tho, but not as common.

Example of an older VMW (made in mid 2013 most likely due to the America sticker on it) with this control board issue

When a VMW drains constantly, regardless of its age, it’s usually the control board. It’s rarely due to a pump issue but that can also be the cause in some cases, where the pump doesn't drain right and the board thinks it’s going to flood. Usually this is accompanied by an F3E1 code.

This is actually a safety mechanism. The constant draining occurs when the machine thinks the drum is overfilled and is going to overflow. For example, when it fills above the stainless drum, and into the balance ring, the washer will drain it out to prevent if from flooding your house. This can also happen if you cancel it while it’s filled up, it can drain for a while if you do that.

Washers like Whirlpool direct drives and GE Model-Ts, didn’t have this mechanism, meaning if there was an issue with the pressure system, the machine would just flood your house.

Unfortunately, if your VMW is older than 2023 and has this issue, the only solution is to pay 200+ dollars for a new control board.

Some VMAX units also were affected (the older ones at least), but not as common as the new VMWs.

 

[pierreandreply4]

the best way to know if the model itself is hit by a recall is to check on the website with your model number

 

[whirlpool862]

All models made in 2023 and a few out of warranty 2024 models are affected. I bet the WTW4616FW, Roper RTW4516FW, several Crosley and Kenmore models, the new Admiral models, also affected by this it just doesn’t show because it’s not commonly bought new anymore and most stores don’t sell those models.

Whirlpool only seemed to do this recall for the more popular ones.

Essentially any new VMW with the six lights under the timer is affected, even if it’s not recalled.

Service Pointer from Whirlpool

 

[pierreandreply4]

All models made in 2023 and a few out of warranty 2024 models are affected. I bet the WTW4616FW, Roper RTW4516FW, several Crosley and Kenmore models, the new Admiral models, also affected by this it just doesn’t show because it’s not commonly bought new anymore and most stores don’t sell those models.

Whirlpool only seemed to do this recall for the more popular ones.

Essentially any new VMW with the six lights under the timer is affected, even if it’s not recalled.

Service Pointer from Whirlpool

@whirlpool862 your link is not working

 

[hvtech42]

Need to add the colon to the URL: https://www.ifixit.com/Document/x3h1Ydc4A1mQDVZM/service-pointer-w11766193-revb.pdf?referrer=wiki:16667

 

[whirlpool862]

I fixed it

 

[phillymatt53]

I may get mixed opinions about this, but in my opinion major appliances don't need complex PC control boards in them.
Just remember when appliances used actual switches and mechanical timers, and how long those machines lasted.
Simplicity at its finest!