Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide
- SAFETY: No immediate hazard — FAE5/F10E5 is a cycle-end error code.
- Press Cancel twice to clear the fault and drain the machine.
- Once drained, attempt to start a new full cycle.
- If FAE5 returns on the same new cycle, power cycle the dishwasher: turn off at the circuit breaker for 1 minute, then restore.
- If FAE5 persists across multiple cycles, call a technician for control board diagnosis.
If the airflow problem comes back
- If airflow still seems weak after the basic checks, the fan path or a deeper obstruction becomes more likely.
- FAE5 or F10E5 returns on every cycle despite power cycling
What This Error Means
Error FAE5 on your Whirlpool dishwasher means: The dishwasher completed a cycle but ended with an error condition. The control board has detected an issue that prevented the cycle from completing normally. Also displayed as F10E5 on some models. Also displayed as F10E5 on some Whirlpool models. The dishwasher's self-diagnostic system has detected this condition and paused operation.
The most frequent cause is temporary control board communication error during the cycle. Work through the causes and fix steps below in order — most Whirlpool dishwasher errors are resolved without a service call.
Many cases of FAE5 can be resolved by the homeowner using the steps below. If the DIY checks do not resolve the error, a technician is needed.
The dishwasher will not proceed until the condition is resolved. Work through all steps before contacting Whirlpool customer support.
What users usually notice before this code
Whirlpool dishwasher warnings like this often show up after standing water, slow draining, heavy food residue, or a cycle that never returned to normal at the end.
Common misdiagnoses
- Assuming the display code proves one exact failed part before the safe first checks are done.
- Replacing a lock or latch too early when alignment, trapped laundry, or startup conditions may still explain the warning.
- Restarting the appliance repeatedly instead of confirming whether the same fault returns after one clean recovery attempt.
Most Likely Cause by Symptom
The Whirlpool dishwasher may stop, pause, or refuse to complete the cycle normally.
Likely cause: Temporary control board communication error during the cycle
Check first: SAFETY: No immediate hazard — FAE5/F10E5 is a cycle-end error code.
The warning may return immediately because the appliance is detecting an internal fault.
Likely cause: Power interruption during a cycle leaving the board in a faulted end state
Check first: Press Cancel twice to clear the fault and drain the machine.
Common Causes
- Temporary control board communication error during the cycle
- Power interruption during a cycle leaving the board in a faulted end state
- Door unlatched mid-cycle causing cycle termination with an error flag
- Control board fault requiring replacement
What Not to Do
- Do not repeatedly press Cancel and restart without power cycling — if the board is in a faulted state, only a full power cycle will reset it
Model and Display Variation Notes
Model-family notes
- Whirlpool dishwasher display wording and code formats can vary by series.
- If your model behaves differently, check the owner manual before trying any deeper maintenance step.
- Some models may display the same fault as FAE5, F10E5.
Display and panel differences
- Some control panels show this issue as FAE5, F10E5 instead of only FAE5.
- Panel wording and whether the code appears with letters, numbers, or a longer variant can differ by model family.
Parts, Tools and Service Options
Common parts
- Main control board ($80–$180)
Manual and model check
Check your exact model and manual before ordering any Whirlpool dishwasher parts.
Service option
Whirlpool service visit if the warning returns after the basic checks are complete.
Suggestions in this section are organized to support the troubleshooting flow first. Any future affiliate relationships should be disclosed clearly.
When Not to Keep Troubleshooting
FAE5 or F10E5 returns on every cycle despite power cycling
How to Prevent It Recurring
- Plug the dishwasher into a surge-protected outlet — voltage spikes during storms are a common trigger for control board errors that surface as FAE5
Related Error Codes
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When not to keep pushing DIY troubleshooting
Use the code page for one careful first pass, then stop if the same warning returns or the appliance still cannot get back to normal operation.
Extra notes
- This page is based on Whirlpool support material and stays conservative where model-specific guidance may vary.
- The goal is to help you identify safe first checks before you move into parts, service, or model-specific manual lookup.
Source and model notes
Last reviewed: 2026-04-08
Based on: Based on Whirlpool support material and edited into consumer-safe guidance for the exact code family on this page.
View Whirlpool US Official Support
Model coverage note: Whirlpool dishwasher code meanings can vary by series, control panel, and model family, so use this page as a safe starting point rather than a replacement for the model-specific manual.
Important: FixThisError is an independent guide, not the manufacturer. Use your model-specific manual when the panel wording or behavior differs.
Always disconnect power before inspecting appliances. If unsure, contact a licensed appliance technician.