How To Reset A Whirlpool Cabrio Washer [In 5 Easy Steps!]

Ossiana Tepfenhart
by Ossiana Tepfenhart
Whirlpool Cabrio washers are reliable, but they still require a reset from time to time. It is an easy process and all that you have to do is adjust the dial properly. Whether you have a knob or touchscreen, let’s take a look at how you can reset your Whirlpool Cabrio washer.

Whirlpool is one of the leading washing machine brands in the world, and the Cabrio happens to be one of their most popular models. It’s true, year after year. However, once in a while, the Cabrio can run the risk of having mishaps and malfunctions. The good news about this is that you can fix many of the problems with a simple reset.

To reset a Whirlpool Cabrio, Press PAUSE/CANCEL on the display pad, select a cycle and press “START”. Turn off the Whirlpool Cabrio when the error code appears, unplug it, and let it sit for 10 minutes. Plug the washer back in, select a cycle, and press “Start” to reset a Whirlpool Cabrio.

This method is considered to be the standard for all items that Whirlpool makes, but sometimes, it doesn’t always work with Cabrios. If you want to learn more about how to reset your washer using a different route, or what resetting can do for you, keep reading.

Related Content: Whirlpool Cabrio Washer Leaving Residue On Clothes? | Whirlpool Washer’s “Door Locked” Light Flashing? | How To Bypass A Lid Lock On A Whirlpool Washer

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When Should You Reset Your Whirlpool Cabrio?

There are plenty of reasons why you might want to reset your Whirlpool Cabrio washer. The most common reason is that you keep getting an error message or because your washer is glitching out. Of course, if there’s anything going on with your washer that you can’t quite pinpoint, a reset will be a smart move for you to do.

Moreover, most washing machines will require a reset whenever there is a serious storm nearby. This is because power surges and spikes can cause electrical issues that need to be addressed. A reset will usually do the trick.

How Do You Use The Whirlpool Cabrio Reset Function?

If the idea of spinning around a dial like a super spy doesn’t appeal to you, then there’s another method that you can use to properly reset your Whirlpool Cabrio. Most washers in the Whirlpool Cabrio line will respond to a built-in reset function. To do it, follow these instructions below:

  • Go to your display pad and touch any button you see there. This sends a signal to your Cabrio to clear the error code. You can also press “PAUSE/CANCEL” if you feel more comfortable doing that.
  • Choose a cycle and press “START.” This might sound crazy, but yes, it’s part of the reset function. This also acts as a test to see if the light reset worked.
  • If the error comes back, disconnect your washing machine from the power source. Wait for five minutes and let the machine settle itself.
  • Plug it back in, and choose any cycle. Press “START” to kick off the empty load as a troubleshooting test. It should work from now on.
  • If it still hasn’t reset, repeat steps three and four. If it doesn’t work a third time, try the more traditional method of resetting your washing machine.

Do All Cabrio Models Have This Reset Function?

Most do, but not all will. To find out how to reset your specific Whirlpool Cabrio washer, the best thing you can do is refer to your owner’s manual. They have clear, concise instructions that will show you exactly how to restart and revive your washer.

How Can You Tell If The Reset Worked?

The easiest way to see if a reset has worked is to perform a “dry run” by turning your washing machine on without any clothing in it. If the test run works and you don’t see an error message, chances are that the reset worked.

Is There a Reset Button on the Whirlpool Cabrio Washer?

Unfortunately, there isn’t an individual reset button on the Whirlpool Cabrio Washer. However, by pushing any button on the screen and following the Cabrio Reset Function above, you can reset your washing machine.

How Do You Do a Hard Reset on a Whirlpool Cabrio Washer?

Performing a hard reset on your Whirlpool Cabrio Washer is quite simple. All you need to do is unplug the washing machine from the wall outlet, and leave it unplugged for about 2 minutes. Next, plug it back in and wait for half a minute before restarting the washer. This simple process is how you hard reset your Cabrio Washer.

If you have a hard time reaching the cord to unplug the washer, you can also flip the circuit breaker that controls the washer. Leave it flipped for 2 minutes before turning it back to the ON position. Cutting the power in either of these two methods is an easy way to get rid of pesky error codes and get your machine operating as it should.

If you decide to try one of these methods for a hard reset, make sure that your washing machine is turned off before killing the power. Unplugging the cord or flipping the breaker could damage your washer if it’s turned on when you do it.

Should I Perform a Diagnostic Test?

It’s not mandatory that you run a diagnostic test after performing a reset on your Cabrio washer, but it’s not a bad idea either. If you want to perform a diagnostic to verify that your problems have been fixed, here’s what you do.

  • Turn the washing machine to standby mode.
  • Choose any button outside of Start, Stop, or Power and push it for 3 seconds, release for 3 seconds, push for 3 seconds, release for 3 seconds, push for 3 seconds.
  • After the third time pushing the button for three seconds, you should have entered diagnostic test mode. If you have, all of the indicator lights should activate for 5 seconds displaying the number 88.
  • Any saved fault codes will display and if there aren’t any, the diagnostic test will begin in 5 seconds.

Performing a simple diagnostic test will verify that the problem has been fixed and if there are any other problems to be aware of. You can also perform diagnostic tests periodically to prevent problems from popping up that require doing a reset.

What Problems Will Resetting Your Washing Machine Fix?

This varies from machine to machine, but most repair crews agree that resetting does offer a fair amount of fixing assistance. When you reset a machine, you’re able to get rid of data-related or electrical-related issues. That’s why a lot of problems involving error messages “magically” go away when you reset a machine.

The general consensus is that a reset will help your washing machine return to its “starting point.” So if you made a mistake that involved setting the machine to a strange function or if your machine’s computer is glitching, A reset will do the trick.

What Problems Won’t Resetting Your Washing Machine Fix?

Resets are best for electrical issues dealing with sensors or your machine’s computer. If a reset doesn’t fix the issue, then you most likely have a mechanical problem at hand. This is the reason why most repairmen start their diagnostic by doing a reset. It helps them figure out what’s wrong. One known issue is the door lock light flashing.

If you have a mechanical issue like a leak, a bad motor, or a bad spinner, then you will have no luck with a reset. However, these types of issues tend to make themselves more noticeable through other signs,

Should You Call A Repairman Instead?

If you are doing a reset as part of a diagnostic, most of the time, you should be good to go on your own. However, there might be times when you need to skip the reset and just call a repairman as soon as you can. If any of the following are true, you need to call a repairman to see what’s going on:

  • Your washer is not turning on or refuses to reset. If the washing machine isn’t responding to reset commands, this could be a sign of something more serious. Call a repairman to see what’s going on.
  • You have performed a full troubleshooting session, with no results whatsoever. You’ve done the reset, you poked around to look for leaks, you’ve tried everything you know how to do…and yet nothing seems to have changed. Sounds familiar? If you’re at a loss, then you may need to call a repairman.
  • There’s a smell of smoke, or you see smoke emitting from your machine. This is not an electrical issue that can be fixed through a simple reset. It’s a serious fire hazard! Unplug your machine immediately and call a repairman. You may need to replace your machine altogether if there are signs of fire damage or other serious issues.
  • The washing machine or dryer was damaged by inclement weather or another insurance-backed reason. If you have a dryer that is insured, call a repairman and take photos to make sure that you can get your repairs paid for.
  • Water is pooling around your machine. This is indicative of a leak. A reset won’t be enough to fix it, and you might need to get a repairman to locate the origin of the leak.
  • You hear a loud, repeating clunking noise or grinding noise coming out of your machine when it’s turned on. This suggests that you might have a bad motor, or that your chamber’s spinner could potentially be out of whack. A repairman will be able to help out with this issue.

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Ossiana Tepfenhart
Ossiana Tepfenhart

Ossiana Tepfenhart is an expert writer, focusing on interior design and general home tips. Writing is her life, and it's what she does best. Her interests include art and real estate investments.

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