# How to Fix Amana Error oL (Overloaded)
The Amana “oL” error code is a common issue that can interrupt your washing cycle, often occurring just before or during the spin cycle.
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## Explanation: What “oL” Means
The Amana “oL” code stands for **Overloaded Load** or **Unbalanced Load**.
While the error message suggests you simply put too much laundry in the drum, this code generally signifies that the machine cannot properly stabilize the tub during the high-speed spin cycle. When the sensors detect excessive vibration, the machine stops and displays “oL” to prevent damage.
**The Underlying Culprit:**
In modern Amana top-load washers, the most frequent mechanical cause of a persistent “oL” error—even with small or properly distributed loads—is the failure of the **Suspension Rod Kit**. These four rods are crucial components that keep the washer tub centered and absorb vibration. When they wear out, they lose their spring tension, causing the tub to rattle violently, triggering the “oL” code.
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## Step-by-Step Fix: How to Diagnose the oL Error
Follow these steps, starting with the simplest solutions, to correctly diagnose and fix the overloaded error.
### Step 1: Address Basic Loading Issues
Before assuming a mechanical failure, rule out a genuine problem with the wash load.
1. **Redistribute the Load:** Stop the washer, open the lid, and manually redistribute the laundry. Ensure heavy items (like blankets or towels) are separated and spread evenly around the center column, not clustered on one side.
2. **Reduce the Load:** If the load is packed tightly, remove about one-third of the items and retry the cycle.
3. **Power Reset:** Unplug the washer from the wall outlet for 5 minutes. This clears the control board’s memory and can sometimes reset the error sensor. Plug it back in and start a rinse/spin cycle with the corrected load.
### Step 2: Check Washer Leveling
An unlevel washer prevents the tub from stabilizing, causing even small imbalances to trigger the “oL” code.
1. **Use a Level:** Place a carpenter’s level on the top of the washing machine (checking both front-to-back and side-to-side).
2. **Adjust the Feet:** If the bubble is not centered, adjust the leveling feet (usually found at the front of the machine) until the washer sits perfectly level and does not rock when you push on the corners.
### Step 3: Inspect the Suspension Rod Kit (The Mechanical Fix)
If the error persists after checking the load and leveling, the suspension rods need inspection. This is the most common resolution for persistent “oL” errors.
**Diagnosis Steps:**
1. **Unplug the Unit:** Always disconnect the power before performing mechanical inspection.
2. **Remove the Top Panel:** On most Amana models, you can access the suspension rods by removing the clips or screws holding the top control panel, tilting it back, or removing the entire top shroud.
3. **Locate the Rods:** There are typically four plastic rods with a spring/damper assembly attached to the corners of the wash tub, extending up to the frame.
4. **Test the Tension:** Gently press down on the wash tub (the inner drum).
* **Healthy Rods:** The tub should compress down slightly and spring back up quickly and firmly, remaining centered.
* **Faulty Rods:** If the tub immediately sinks low with little resistance, or if it noticeably sags to one side, the suspension rods have lost their crucial dampening ability and must be replaced as a full set.
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If redistributing the load and confirming the level did not solve the persistent oL error, replacement of the suspension rods is necessary.
Check the price for a replacement Suspension Rod Kit here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Amana+Suspension Rod Kit&tag=trivian-20