Whirlpool C01 washing machine: what it means & what to check

What C01 actually means

C01 isn't a breakdown code — it's the second stage of Whirlpool's built-in test programme, so the machine has been put into diagnostic mode rather than a normal wash.

On Whirlpool washers, the C-codes are steps in the engineer's test routine (C00 through to C05). C01 is the stage that spins the motor one way then the other and works the water valves and pressure switch system, checking water actually gets in and is sensed. If a genuine fault turns up during that step the machine reports it as an F-code — F01, F06, F07, F10 or F36 — and that F-code, not C01, is what tells you what's wrong.

What C01 looks like on a Whirlpool washing machine

Most people find this page having searched for what the machine is doing rather than the code itself. On a Whirlpool washing machine, C01 usually shows up as one or more of these:

Overfilling, or won't stop filling
Stops with water still inside
Fills and drains over and over
Drum not turning
Won't spin
Hums or buzzes but nothing moves
Turns one way only
C01 flashing on the display

Recognise any of those? That is this fault, and the rest of this page explains what causes it and what you can check yourself.

What usually causes it

The test programme was entered by accident, usually by holding buttons while turning the dial
An engineer or previous owner left the machine in service mode
The dial has been left on the test position after a diagnostic check
A real fault only becomes clear when the test throws up an F-code at the end of the C01 stage

What you can safely check yourself

Work through these in order. Anything beyond this — panels off, testing parts, anything to do with the wiring — is an engineer's job, and not one to attempt with the machine plugged in.

Turn the machine off at the wall for a minute, then switch it back on and select a normal wash — that usually drops it out of test mode
Move the programme dial to a standard wash setting rather than leaving it where the test was started
If an F-code appears during or after the C01 stage, write it down — that is the code worth acting on

Common questions about Whirlpool C01

What does C01 mean on a Whirlpool washing machine?

C01 isn't a breakdown code — it's the second stage of Whirlpool's built-in test programme, so the machine has been put into diagnostic mode rather than a normal wash. On Whirlpool washers, the C-codes are steps in the engineer's test routine (C00 through to C05). C01 is the stage that spins the motor one way then the other and works the water valves and pressure switch system, checking water actually gets in and is sensed. If a genuine fault turns up during that step the machine reports it as an F-code — F01, F06, F07, F10 or F36 — and that F-code, not C01, is what tells you what's wrong.

Can I fix Whirlpool C01 myself?

There are 3 checks you can safely do yourself first.

Turn the machine off at the wall for a minute, then switch it back on and select a normal wash — that usually drops it out of test mode.
Move the programme dial to a standard wash setting rather than leaving it where the test was started.
If an F-code appears during or after the C01 stage, write it down — that is the code worth acting on.

This often clears with those checks, and rarely needs an engineer.

How much does it cost to repair Whirlpool C01?

£66 including VAT for an engineer to come out and diagnose it, or £84 in total including VAT if it is put right on the visit and no parts are needed. Any parts needed are quoted on site before we fit them — you decide. Every repair carries a 90-day workmanship guarantee.

Tried the checks and it's still showing C01?

This often clears with the checks above, and rarely needs an engineer. Then it wants someone who can open it up.

What it costs, before you call: the price is the same whatever the fault turns out to be — £66 including VAT for an engineer to come out and diagnose it, or £84 in total including VAT if it is put right on the visit and no parts are needed. Any parts needed are quoted on site before we fit them — you decide. Every repair carries a 90-day workmanship guarantee.

Our own engineers, not a call centre. We cover Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Leicestershire — most washing machine faults are seen same day or next day.

Call 0115 648 0929 Book online — postcode and number is all we need

Outside our area? The explanation above still stands — take it to a local engineer and tell them the code. Knowing it saves them time and you money.

Other Whirlpool washing machine codes

All Whirlpool fault codes and repairs →

What this looks like when it happens

Repairs we cover near you

Written by the engineers at ASAP Repairs, 0115 648 0929. We repair these machines for a living in Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Leicestershire.

Whirlpool C01 error — washing machine