On the covered Whirlpool top-load washer, F5 E2, dLO, LdL means the washer could not lock the lid First, look under the lid and around the lock strike for a stray item or detergent build-up. Then: clear the obstruction; if the lock still will not engage, replace the lid lock/switch assembly.
Differential
Likely causes of “Whirlpool top-load washer code F5 E2, dLO, LdL”, and how to tell them apart
- 1
An item or debris under the lid or in the lock strike
What separates it The lock does not engage and dLO, LdL or F5 E2 appears at Start
How to confirm Look at the lock and strike with a flashlight for lint, a button or a stuck garment
- 2
Detergent build-up around the lid lock mechanism
What separates it The lock feels sticky or the strike does not seat
How to confirm Wipe around the lock with a damp cloth and see whether it now engages
- 3
A failing lid lock/switch assembly or loose wiring to it
What separates it The lock is clean but never clicks, or works only if you lean on the lid
How to confirm Unplug the washer and check the wiring; if it is sound, the assembly is worn
Before you touch a setting
Record this first — changing settings destroys the evidence
- The exact display: F5 E2, dLO or LdL
- Whether the lock clicks when you press Start
- What you found under the lid or around the strike
Try in this order
0 of 6 completedWhat to do first
ReversibleLook under the lid and around the lock strike for a stray item or detergent build-up.
Correct only the documented fault domain
ReversibleClear the obstruction; if the lock still will not engage, replace the lid lock/switch assembly.
Check under the lid and around the strike
ReversibleWhirlpool's dLO page says an item in the load may keep the lid from locking and asks you to check directly under the lid and for detergent build-up around the lid lock mechanism.
Clean the lock area
ReversibleWipe the strike and the lock opening clean. A film of dried detergent can stop the strike seating.
Check the wiring
ReversibleThe 2015 Cabrio table says to unplug the washer and check the wire harness connections for the lid lock/switch at the main electronic control board, then examine the assembly.
Replace the lid lock/switch assembly
ReversibleBoth service tables say to replace the lid lock/switch assembly if it is damaged or defective.
Model-specific
What is true of this model and not of its siblings
- Displayed as
- F5 E2, dLO or LdL.
- Tools
- A flashlight, a damp cloth and a screwdriver or nut driver for the top panel.
Stop boundary
When this stops being a self-service repair
- !Unplug the washer before you open the top or touch the lock wiring
- !Do not force the lid shut or hold it down to run the cycle; the lock is a safety part
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
Where the manufacturer's article stops. The detergent build-up check is Whirlpool's own wording.
Exact questions
Common questions
What does F5 E2, dLO, LdL mean on a Whirlpool top-load washer?+
the washer could not lock the lid
What do F5 E2, dLO and LdL mean?+
The lid will not lock. Whirlpool's dLO page describes it as a lock failure caused by an item under the lid or detergent build-up.
What is the fix if nothing is in the way?+
The service tables say to replace the lid lock/switch assembly.
Can detergent build-up really cause it?+
Whirlpool's own dLO page says to check for detergent build-up around the lid lock mechanism.
Can I run the washer with the lid unlocked?+
No. The lock must engage for the washer to run.
Does it apply to Maytag and Amana?+
Yes, on the same top-load platform.