What does Whirlpool SAB Error Code - Causes & Fix mean?

SAB (or 5AB/5A6) on a Whirlpool oven means Sabbath Mode is active, not a fault. Exit the mode using your model's control sequence.

How do I fix Whirlpool SAB Error Code - Causes & Fix?

Follow the step-by-step diagnosis below. The most likely fix is identified by checking power, sensor resistance, and control-board signals in order — using a multimeter and the part numbers documented in the parts reference table.

Can I keep running the equipment with this fault active?

Generally no. Faults on Appliance units are emitted when a sensor, safety, or control circuit is outside its operating envelope. Running through an active fault risks compressor, heater, or control-board damage. Diagnose and clear the fault first.

What part is most commonly replaced for Whirlpool SAB Error Code - Causes & Fix?

The most frequently replaced parts for Whirlpool SAB Error Code - Causes & Fix are listed in the Parts Reference section of this guide with OEM part numbers and typical price ranges. Check the table for direct replacements.

Is Whirlpool SAB Error Code - Causes & Fix a DIY repair or do I need a technician?

Sensor swaps, fan motor replacements, and condenser cleaning are typical DIY-level repairs. Anything involving refrigerant, gas, or high-voltage (>240V) work requires a licensed technician for both safety and code-compliance reasons.

Whirlpool SAB Error Code - Causes & Fix

Whirlpool SAB Error Code — What It Means

SAB, Sab, 5AB, or 5A6 on your Whirlpool oven display is not an error code. It indicates that Sabbath Mode is currently active. In this mode, only the Bake function operates. All other cooking and cleaning cycles are disabled, display tones are turned off, and the oven is designed to remain on until you manually turn it off. Whirlpool publishes this as a mode indicator rather than a fault condition.

Jump to Fix

Common Causes

Sabbath Mode was intentionally enabled The most common cause is that someone activated Sabbath Mode using the control sequence for your specific model.
Power event during startup A power outage or interrupted startup can sometimes cause the control to resume in Sabbath Mode on certain models.
Mode was not exited after previous use If the oven was used in Sabbath Mode recently, the display remains until you explicitly exit the mode.
Control sequence held too long Accidentally pressing and holding the correct button combination can trigger Sabbath Mode without your knowledge.

Step-by-Step Fix

Confirm the display shows SAB, Sab, 5AB, or 5A6 and verify that only the Bake function is available, which indicates Sabbath Mode rather than a true fault.
Locate your model-specific Owner’s Manual to find the exact control sequence for exiting Sabbath Mode, as the method varies by model.
Exit Sabbath Mode by pressing and holding the correct button combination for your model (often a combination involving the Clock or Settings button held for several seconds).
Check the display to confirm that SAB has cleared and normal oven functions have returned.
Cycle power at the breaker for about 1 minute if the code does not clear after manual exit, then recheck the display.
Test normal operation by selecting a cooking mode other than Bake to verify all functions are restored.
Inspect the user interface and control board for stuck buttons or control logic issues only if SAB returns repeatedly after proper exit and power reset, though Whirlpool does not list component failure as a normal cause for this code.

Parts Often Needed

Part	Notes
Whirlpool Oven User Interface Control Board	Amazon \| Only needed if SAB persists after exit attempts and suggests a stuck input or control logic fault (rare for this code).
Whirlpool Oven Main Electronic Control Board	Amazon \| Consider only if the user interface has been ruled out and SAB returns without manual activation.

When to Call a Pro

Call a technician if the SAB display returns immediately after you exit Sabbath Mode and cycle power at the breaker, or if you cannot find the correct exit sequence for your model and the oven remains locked in Bake-only operation. A pro can verify whether the user interface or main control board has a stuck input or logic fault. For the vast majority of cases, this is a mode setting rather than a hardware failure, so consult your Owner’s Manual or Whirlpool support before scheduling service.