When you invest in a Kenmore washer, you expect durability and top-notch performance. But your faith in this sturdy washing machine may get shaken by a flashing F5 error code.
While indicating the lock switch error , this code delays your laundry plans. It may even force you to do laundry manually.
Keep reading our guide for a better understanding of the problem, its root causes, and solutions.
This guide applies to various Kenmore washer models. Here are a few of them:
Front-load Washers:
- Kenmore Elite HE3 79092
- Kenmore Elite HE3 62332
- Kenmore Oasis MAH5700AWW
- Kenmore Oasis MAH8700AWW
Top-load Washers:
- Kenmore 110.27922100
- Kenmore 110.26922100
- Kenmore 72133
- Kenmore 79272
- Kenmore 92532
- Kenmore 90482
- Kenmore QuietGuard 21002
- Kenmore QuietGuard 110.29932101
What Does F5 Mean On A Kenmore Washer?
The Kenmore washer F5 code is not only inconvenient but also frustrating. Your usual laundry routine frees you from piles of unclean clothes. But the flashing error message becomes an obstacle in your way. Here’s a breakdown of the F5 code:
- Meaning: The F5 code means something is wrong with the door lock mechanism. Your washer won’t start the spin cycle unless the door is closed and secured. This is essential to prevent leaks and potential injuries.
- Safety Feature: This code is a built-in safety mechanism. As long as the washer’s door is locked, the clothes stay contained during the high-speed spin cycle. This minimizes the risk of leaks or accidents.
- Impact on Use: With the F5 code, your wash cycle gets stuck. Your washer stops operating and your clothes remain soaking wet in the washer,
- Warning Symptoms: Repeated filling and drainage without reaching the spin cycle is a warning before the flashing code. Additionally, the door itself might feel loose or slightly open.
- Importance of Addressing: Ignoring the Kenmore F5 code can lead to water damage inside the washer. A malfunctioning door lock leads to poor wash quality as clothes won’t spin correctly. Fast addressing the issue ensures a safe and efficient laundry experience.
Why Does Your Kenmore Washer Throw F5 Code?
Unlike many other Kenmore washer error codes, the F5 fault isn’t associated with many culprits. The problem mainly lies with the door lock mechanism. Let’s explore the possible causes behind this Kenmore washer F5 code.
1. Lid Lock Malfunction
In most cases, this is the common cause behind the F5 error response. This mechanism ensures your washer door stays shut during operation. This way, your washer prevents leaks and other safety risks.
This lid switch may become faulty over time. The switch or the whole mechanism might also be misaligned, or obstructed. Any type of these malfunctions can prevent the washer from detecting a secure closure. This is how you end up with the F5 code and a halted cycle.
2. Faulty Door Lock Assembly
The door lock is the physical component that secures the washer door. This component can malfunction due to worn-out components or a broken latch. loose connections inside the door lock lead to the same result. A malfunctioning door lock assembly prevents the washer’s control board from detecting a secure closure. The final result of this malfunction is the F5 code.
3. Control Board Miscommunication
In rare cases, the F5 code might be associated with a problematic control board. As the brain of the Kenmore washer, it receives signals from various components. This includes the lid lock switch. If there is a problem with the board, it may misinterpret the received signals.
In other cases, the board fails to communicate with the lid lock assembly. Any sort of miscommunication between the lid lock and the control board results in the F5 code. In this case, the board believes the door isn’t locked even though it is locked.
How To Reset Kenmore Washer F5 Code
The control board of your washer may encounter minor glitches from time to time. These glitches may accidentally trigger error codes like the Kenmore washer F5 code. This issue can happen with different washing machines from Whirlpool and Maytag.
If this was the case with your washer, performing a reset might be helpful. A reset helps clear these temporary hiccups and restart the washer’s control board. Here’s how to do it:
- Disconnect the power cord from the outlet or turn off the circuit breaker for 2-3 minutes.
- Plug the washer back in or turn on the breaker and wait a couple more minutes for the system to fully reboot
- Run a short rinse cycle to see if the F5 code reappears.
How To Fix Kenmore Washer F5 Code
The Kenmore washer F5 code is a buzzkill but it can be fixed if you correctly diagnose the cause. Here are a few repairs you can try before calling a technician:
1. How To Fix Lid Lock Malfunction
You can find the lid lock behind the lower front panel of your Kenmore washer. Use your screwdriver to remove the screws holding the panel in place. Look for a plastic assembly with an attached switch assembly. There’s also the door latch, which is a lever connected to the door lock.
The DIY fixes for these components include:
- Cleaning: Use a damp cloth to wipe the switch assembly. This step can remove any stuck dirt and debris. Inspect the whole area for stuck coins or pins that might be lodged around the door lock or switch assembly. Use needle-nose pliers to remove any obstructions.
- Re-align the lock: Check if the lock is correctly aligned with the door lock slot (strike). If it is not aligned, realign it. You can refer to the manual to find out the correct position. When the lid is closed, the strike should fit snugly into the lock without any gaps or misalignment.
2. How To Fix Faulty Door Lock Assembly
If none of the previous DIY solutions, there could be damage to the door lock. For instance, a broken latch, or worn components can lead to the same result. You can find this problem out with visual inspection. Also, invisible causes like loose wiring connections or damaged wires can lead to the same result.
If you are comfortable with electrical work, you can test the assembly with a multimeter. If there is no continuity, you should replace the whole assembly. Seek a reliable online merchant or a home improvement store approved by the manufacturer to get a compatible replacement.
But if you don’t have previous experience in replacing these assemblies, it is better to call a reliable appliance repair technician.
3. How To Fix Control Board Miscommunication
Most issues related to the control board are complex and require advanced electrical knowledge. Therefore, any DIY troubleshooting is not recommended. If you suspect control board problems, contact a certified technician.
Conclusion
The Kenmore washer F5 code disrupts your laundry routine and may put you at risk of water damage. It expresses a lid lock switch problem that makes the door unable to close securely. This issue may result from a malfunctioning lid switch, a worn-out door lock assembly, or even a rare control board miscommunication.
For the DIYers, cleaning the switch, realigning the lock, or replacing the door lock might do the deed. However, for complex control board issues, calling a trusted technician is your best bet.
Experiencing other Kenmore washer issues for the first time? Take a look at these guides to fix the Kenmore washer not filling with water or the Kenmore washer won’t agitate.
Adrian is an ISCET licensed professional that has completed the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam and has the expertise to diagnose and repair any appliance. He is well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques and is always up-to-date on the latest industry standards.
