Whirlpool Cabrio Washer OL Error Code: Overloaded Tub Fix

Quick Answer

The OL code is triggered when the washer tub is too heavy or stuck. Start by removing some clothes to reduce the weight, but if the tub is empty, check for a stray sock or bra wire jammed between the inner and outer tubs.

When I see an OL code on a Cabrio, it usually means the motor's working too hard. Sure, sometimes it's just someone who tried to wash three sets of bedding at once. But honestly, I find mechanical issues just as often. If the basket can't float properly or the drive hub's stripped its teeth, the control board thinks the tub is overloaded even when it's completely empty. It's basically the machine protecting itself from burning out the motor.

WhirlpoolWasherSeverity: moderate92% DIY Success

Time to Fix

10–45 min

Difficulty

beginner

Parts Cost

$15 – $35

Tools Needed

10mm socket and ratchet, Flathead screwdriver (for the center cap)

What Does the OL Code Mean?

Your washer's sensing more drag than it can handle. That's either a literal overload of wet laundry, or it's a mechanical 'phantom' overload caused by something stuck under the basket. And in a lot of cases I see, the plastic drive hub that connects the motor to the basket has worn out. When that happens, the machine misreads the load weight and throws OL even on a small load.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Actual laundry overload45%

Obstruction (stuck sock or garment)25%

Stripped drive hub kit20%

Bearing or motor friction10%

Symptoms You May Notice

OL flashes mid-cycle and the machine just stops dead, usually right in the middle of the wash or rinse phase.
The washer suddenly drains all the water and just sits there, leaving your clothes soaking wet and half-washed.
You can hear the motor humming or straining but the basket barely moves or doesn't move at all.
Clothes come out dripping wet because the spin cycle never actually completed.
A grinding or zipping noise during agitation, but the wash plate isn't really doing much.

Can you reset a Whirlpool washer to clear the OL code?

To reset the OL code, press the Power or Stop button twice to clear the display. Unplug the washer for 60 seconds to allow the control board to discharge. Plug it back in and start a new cycle. If the code returns immediately without the tub moving, proceed to the mechanical diagnostics.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

10mm socket and ratchetFlathead screwdriver (for the center cap)Phillips #2 screwdriverFlashlight or headlampSmall pry bar or trim removal tool

Service / Diagnostic Mode

With the washer in standby, turn the cycle selector knob: Left (one click), Right (three clicks), Left (one click), Right (one click). All lights should flash.

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name	OEM Number	Estimated Price
Washer Drive Hub KitW10324651 · $15–$35	W10324651	$15 – $35

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ignore the OL code and just restart the washer?

You can try restarting once after pulling some clothes out, but if it comes back, stop. Forcing the machine to run when it thinks it's overloaded puts massive strain on the stator and the main control board. If there's a physical obstruction or a stripped hub under there, you could burn out the motor entirely. That's a $150-300 repair versus a $20 drive hub. Don't kick the can down the road on this one.

Why does my Cabrio say OL when it's empty?

This is almost always the basket float failing. These washers are designed so the inner basket lifts up slightly when the tub fills with water. If the basket's stuck to the drive shaft because of mineral buildup, a worn hub, or a stray sock, it can't float. The control board senses the extra drag of the basket itself and assumes you've overloaded it with clothes. An empty drum that shows OL is almost never actually an overload issue, it's mechanical every single time.

How do I know if my drive hub is stripped?

Listen during the cycle. If you hear a grinding or zipping sound but the wash plate isn't moving much, the teeth are probably gone. When you pull the wash plate off, you'll see white plastic shavings all around the shaft. That's the hub getting chewed up. The part number you want is WP3360629 for most Cabrios. It's $15-20 online and takes about 20 minutes to swap out. Honestly, this is one of the most common repairs I do on these machines.

Does using HE detergent prevent the OL code?

Yeah, it actually matters. Using regular detergent or too much HE detergent creates suds lock. The foam builds up between the two tubs and creates real mechanical resistance. The motor has to push through all that, draws more current than normal, and the board trips OL thinking the load is too heavy. Switch to HE detergent and use about half the recommended amount. These high-efficiency washers use way less water than you'd think, so they don't need as much soap.

Can I replace the drive hub myself, or do I need a tech?

You can totally do this yourself. It's probably the most beginner-friendly washer repair there is. You pop the center cap, remove one 10mm bolt, lift the wash plate, swap the hub, and put it back together. No special tools, no tilting the machine, no pulling it halfway apart. The hardest part is usually getting that center cap off without scratching it. Figure 20-30 minutes if it's your first time. Just make sure you unplug the machine before you start poking around in there.

Related Whirlpool Washer Error Codes

Code: uLWhirlpool Washer uL Error Code: Unbalanced Load Code: SdWhirlpool Washer Sd Error Code: Suds Detected

Models Known to Experience OL Errors

This repair applies to most Whirlpool washers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

WTW6400SW, WTW6600SW, WTW6700TU, WTW7300XW, WTW7600XW, WTW8200YW, WTW8800YW

Written by

Mike Sullivan

Lead Appliance Repair Technician · 20 years experience

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 17, 2026