How to Fix Whirlpool Cabrio 5d Error Code

A Whirlpool Cabrio 5d error code means the same thing as an Sd or Sud error code; the washer is detecting too many soap suds. Whirlpool does not actually list 5d as an error code; instead, people misinterpret the Sd error code as reading 5d. The cause of the issue is usually the use of too much detergent or not using a high-efficiency (HE) detergent. Occasionally, the error code is caused by the drain pump or drain line being clogged or a defective drain pump, foam level sensor, or main control board.

This guide applies to most Whirlpool Cabrio washers, including the following models:

LSC8244EQ0

LSC8244EQ1

LSC8244EZ0

LSC8244EZ1

LSR6132EQ0

LSR6132EZ0

LSR7233EQ0

LSR7233EW0

LSR7233EZ0

LSR8233EQ0

LSR8233EZ0

LSR8244EQ0

LSR8244EQ1

LSR8244EZ0

LSR8244EZ1

What Happens When the 5d/Sd Error Code Is Displayed?

Whirlpool washers have a foaming control function, which tries to reduce suds when detected by adding more water to the load. During this process, the washer will display the error code. The machine will then pause to allow the bubbles in the suds to break. If this fails, it may try again to reduce the suds by adding water. If adding water fails to reduce the soap suds, the 5d/Sd or Sud error code will continue to be displayed, and you will need to fix the issue yourself – read on to learn how.

What Causes the 5d/Sd Error Code?

1. Too Much Detergent

When doing a washing load, make sure to follow the detergent manufacturer’s instructions for the correct amount of detergent to use. If the 5d/Sd error code persists, a small reduction of the recommended amount of detergent may resolve the issue. Attention should also be paid to the concentration of the detergent, with the amount adjusted accordingly. Also, be aware that high-efficiency washers require less detergent than standard washing machines.

2. Type of Detergent

The Whirlpool Cabrio high-efficiency washer requires “HE” detergent. High-efficiency detergent features low sudsing properties, which should stop the 5d/Sd error code from occurring. A high-efficiency detergent is usually easy to spot, as it will have “HE” printed on the label. In addition to less suds, high-efficiency detergents should do a better job of removing stains and cleaning your clothes.

Excess suds can also be caused by the use of “no splash” or “easy pour” liquid chlorine bleach in the washer. The washer should instead be run with a regular liquid bleach product to avoid excess suds.

3. Clogged Drain Pump or Drain Line

The 5d/Sd error code can also be caused by the pump or drain line being clogged or a defective pump. The error can occur because the washer is trying to correct the suds problem, but the washer is not draining properly to allow it to fix the suds issue. There can also be a blockage that is caused by too much detergent residue building up in these components.

How to Resolve the 5d/Sd Error Code

When your Samsung washer gives you the 5d/Sd error code, leaving the washer to resolve the issue itself will usually fix the issue. Once the washer detects the issue is resolved, it should automatically continue with the cycle. If this does not happen, first look at how much and what type of detergent you are using. Then, remove detergent residue from the washer, and check the drain hose and drain pump for any problems.

Remove Detergent Residue

If you are using the correct amount of detergent and the detergent is an HE detergent, you may need to clear out detergent residue in the washer to fix the problem. To clear out detergent residue, run a long wash cycle, set to a high temperature, without any clothes in the washer. After the cycle, check that the washer is free of detergent residue and wipe away any spots that remain.

If detergent residue remains in the washer, run the washer with a washer cleaning product. Two cups of white vinegar can also be used to clean detergent residue from the washer; however, Whirlpool warns that using vinegar to clean the washer may damage internal components.

Check the Drain Hose

The 5d/Sd error can be triggered if the drain hose is kinked, bent, or blocked. Make sure that water is able to pass through the drain hose and exit the washer. If the hose is blocked, detach the drain hose from the washer, and wash it out with a mixture of white vinegar, baking soda, and warm water, or use a drain snake tool to unblock it.

Check the Drain Pump & Pump Filter

If the drain hose is not blocked, a defective drain pump or a clogged pump filter may be causing the issue. The drain pump and pump filter usually become clogged due to small foreign objects, like an article of clothing, coins, or bobby pins. The pump’s impeller can also wear out or break and obstruct or damage the pump. If an impeller is broken, the pump should be replaced to ensure it works correctly.

If the impeller is not damaged and the pump is not blocked or being obstructed, it may have failed electrically. To determine if the pump has failed electrically, the pump’s motor will need to be tested for continuity (a continuous electrical path) with a multimeter.

Some Whirlpool washers also have a pump filter connected to the drain pump or internal drain hose. Like the drain pump, small items can end up in the pump filter and restrict the washer’s ability to drain. Depending on the model, you should be able to unscrew the pump filter and then clean it with soap and warm water.

Accessing the pump and pump filter is usually done through an access panel at the back of the washer. If your model does not have a rear access panel, the front control panel may need to be removed to gain access to the pump and pump filter.

Check the Foam Level Sensor

If you have followed all of the advice above but the issue remains, the foam level sensor may be defective and falsely detecting suds in the tub. The foam level sensor should be checked for signs of damage, cleaned, and, if necessary, tested with a multimeter for continuity to determine if it has failed and needs to be replaced.

Check the Main Control Board

Very rarely, the 5d/Sd error may be caused by a faulty main control board. It is also possible that the control board has a glitch that falsely triggers the error code. Disconnecting the power to the washer for five minutes should resolve the error if it is a glitch causing it. If the control board is faulty, it is best to contact a trained technician to check the control board, as fixing or replacing a faulty control board is usually a complex procedure.