It would seem that everything is as usual: the laundry is loaded, the powder is poured in, the door is closed, but at the stage of starting the wash, something went wrong.
The hatch door was not blocked and, as a result, the washing machine did not start the selected washing mode. Instead, error E40 appeared on the control panel.
Information about what exactly can provoke such a situation will help restore the working condition of the Electrolux washing machine as quickly as possible.
What does error E40 mean on an Electrolux washing machine and how to fix it, we will tell you further.
What is this code that the Electrolux washing machine produces?
The Electrolux washing machine signals problems with the hatch locking with error E40. There are many reasons why the seal of the hatch closure is broken . Deciphering the E40 information code helps to more accurately determine what exactly caused the malfunction.
To enter the diagnostic mode of the Electrolux washing machine without a software selector (the washing mode is selected by pressing individual buttons), you must simultaneously press and hold two buttons in the right corner of the control panel (pictured item 1) and one large round button located on the right sides (pictured item 2).
As soon as all the indicators flash simultaneously (a signal that entry into the diagnostic system was successful), a code will appear on the display that pinpoints the cause of the washing machine malfunction:
- E41 - the hatch door is not tightly closed;
- E41 - the hatch locking device has failed;
- E43 - the triac responsible for the operation of the UBL has failed (additional diagnostics of the control module is required);
- E44 - the hatch door opening sensor is faulty;
- E45 - break in the eclectic circuit between the triac and UBL.
For models of washing machines with a program selector (the washing mode is selected by turning the knob of a special switch), to enter the diagnostic system, you must press and hold the two outermost buttons on the right side of the control panel (item 2 in the photo).
In Electrolux washing machines without a display, problems associated with locking the hatch door are indicated by flashing indicators.
In models with the EWM 1000 control module, the code is transmitted by two indicators : one is located near the “Start/Pause” button, the second is located near the “Wash End” button. The indicators flash in turn, with a short pause. The number of flashes determines the two-digit value of the fault code. In the specific case of error E40, the indicators flash once four times.
For washing machine models with an EWM 2000 control module, error code recognition is carried out in a slightly different way. To obtain the necessary information, count the number of blinks of the eight indicators located on the right side of the control panel. The number of blinks of the four upper indicators is the first digit of the error code, the number of blinks of the second four indicators is the second digit of the code.
For a specific error E40, only the third indicator out of the top four blinks four times. The serial numbers of indicators are determined from bottom to top .
Meaning of error code E40
In every Electrolux washing machine model, a combination of letters and numbers such as E40 indicates problems with the loading door lock. The code has a general concept. To specify the culprit of the malfunction, you should enter the mode. The master copes with this task perfectly, but the general algorithm of actions looks like this:
- simultaneously press two buttons located on the right side of the control panel,
- While continuing to hold them, you need to press the large orange button located on the side. Continue pressing until the indicator lights light up.
This method is recommended for use on machines that are not equipped with selector programs. If there is one, you should simultaneously activate and not release the pair of outer buttons located on the right for a while.
Ultimately, the screen will display the updated fault code E40:
- E41 – loading hatch is not closed tightly enough,
- E42 – lock refused,
- E43 – the part responsible for blocking has broken in the control module,
- E44 – door sensor malfunction,
- E45 – problems have arisen in the wiring connecting the UBL and the control unit.
Why does it appear and what to do?
The process of eliminating error E40 of the Electrolux washing machine is carried out according to a clearly defined algorithm, starting with the simplest actions, gradually moving towards more complex repairs that require certain knowledge and training.
Checking the tightness of the hatch door
The first thing to do when the washing machine signals a malfunction with error E40 is to open the door, check the rubber seal of the hatch for stuck debris , and close the hatch door again (press until it clicks).
Additionally, check the condition of the hinges (door misalignment can also trigger error E40). It is enough to tighten the fasteners that have become loose over time so that the hatch door fits hermetically to the body of the washing machine again.
Testing and changing the hatch locking device (UBL)
The absence of a characteristic click when closing the hatch doors is a signal that the possible cause of the E40 error lies in a malfunction of the hatch locking device (UBL).
Algorithm of actions:
Open the hatch of the washing machine.- Using a flat screwdriver, carefully pry it off and tighten the metal ring (clamp) holding the rubber seal of the hatch inlet.
- Having bent the cuff, using a Phillips screwdriver or a tool with an asterisk attachment, we unscrew the fasteners holding the UBL.
- By pulling the lock to the left, carefully remove it from its seat.
- We check the dismantled lock with a tester. To do this, switch the multimeter to the “Resistance” mode. We apply one probe to the neutral contact, the second to the phase. The tester changes the readings - the UBL is working.
- We apply the tester probe to the neutral and common contact. If “0” is displayed on the multimeter display, the UBL is faulty and requires replacement.
- We disconnect the faulty lock from the wiring and connect a new part in its place.
After replacing the lock, return the clamp and rubber cuff to their original place, and run a test wash.
We eliminate contact breaks between the UBL and the control module
Very strong vibration of the washing machine, long-term operation of the household appliance in a damp room leads to disruption of the integrity of the contacts between the hatch locking device and the control module. In addition to error E40, a similar problem is indicated by a burning smell that occurs when starting the wash.
To troubleshoot the problem you must:
- carefully inspect the UBL contacts for breaks, burnt areas (additionally, the wiring is tested with a multimeter);
- clean damaged areas, solder breaks.
Before starting work, you must make sure that the washing machine is disconnected from the power supply.
Restoring the operation of the control module
Very often, error code E40 (in diagnostic mode E43, E45) indicates that the reason for the lack of locking of the hatch doors lies in the control module. Sudden voltage surges or moisture entering the washing machine body lead to burnout of elements in the UBL circuit.
To diagnose and fix the problem, you must:
Remove the cover of the washing machine (unscrew the rear panel bolts).- Remove the powder receptacle, unscrew the fasteners in the opened niche, and remove the control panel from the latches.
- Having carefully examined the control module, determine the burnt-out elements (damaged areas are distinguished by black color, convex capacitor caps), and resolder the necessary areas.
In the absence of knowledge, experience and skills in repairing the control module, it is better to entrust such work to the professionals of the service center.
Explanation of the error and its causes
Error E40 is a common error that is caused by a breakdown of the door locking device. This error can be clarified by entering the control board diagnostic mode. On washing machines without a software selector, this can be done as follows:
- Simultaneously press the two buttons on the right, indicated by number 1 in the figure below.
- Turn on the machine by pressing the button number 2, continuing to hold the buttons until all the indicators flash.
For your information! On washing machines with a program selector, to enter the diagnostic mode you need to hold down the two buttons on the far right.
After entering test mode, error code E40 will disappear and one of the following codes will appear:
- E41 - informs that the hatch door is not tightly closed;
- E42 - indicates a breakdown of the hatch locking device;
- E43 – the triac responsible for the UBL is faulty;
- E44 – drum door opening sensor is broken;
- E45 - the electrical circuit between the triac and the UBL is faulty.
Replacing the door lock
So, if the washing machine produces error E40, do not rush to enter test mode. Try to press the hatch door tighter by gently pressing it with your knee. If this does not help, then you will have to clarify the error as described above or manually check all possible causes of this malfunction one by one.
Start with the hatch locking device, namely the lock, you need:
- remove the clamp from the rubber cuff;
- Unscrew the bolts holding the lock in the machine body;
- remove the lock from the space between the tank and the front wall of the housing;
- check contacts;
Important! Contacts 3 and 4 should be closed, and contacts 4 and 5 should be open.
- disconnect the lock from the wires and install a new one;
- return the lock and clamp to their place;
- run a test wash.
Other faults
Sometimes the cause of the breakdown is a malfunction of the electrical wires between the control board and the door lock system. In order to detect a damaged wire, take a multimeter and ring each of them in turn.
It is much more difficult to repair the control board on which the door lock control triac is located. To find this triac, you need to have a good understanding of electronic circuits. In addition, in the event of a malfunction, you will have to resolder the part, and this also requires certain skills and dexterity.
The figure below shows an example of an EWM200 control board. At the bottom right is a triac, which affects the operation of the lock. Perhaps this will help you solve the problem. But, if you have never encountered such work, contact a specialist who will do everything correctly and quickly.
Keep in mind that the appearance of error E40 can be simultaneously caused by a burnout of the triac on the controller and a breakdown of the lock. Therefore, you will have to check everything related to the door closing and opening system. You will learn about other typical breakdowns of this equipment in the article Repairing an Electrolux washing machine. Good luck!
How to prevent it in the future?
Several recommendations will help prevent the occurrence of error E40 in the Electrolux washing machine
- do not load the washing machine drum more than specified in the operating instructions for the household appliance (excessive sagging of the drum leads to stretching of the cuff, loosening of the hinges and breakage of the UBL);
- close the hatch doors carefully (excessive pressure can cause damage to the UBL and bending of the hinges);
- at the end of washing, always unplug the household appliance from the outlet (one sharp power surge is enough for the control module to fail).
Strict adherence to the rules of operation of the household appliance prescribed in the manufacturer’s instructions will help to maximize the period of trouble-free operation of the Electrolux washing machine.
Call the master
For those who are little familiar with the internal structure of the Electrolux washing machine, in eliminating the E40 error they cannot do without the help of a professional technician.
You can call a specialist to your home from a service center or use the services of private craftsmen (contacts are not difficult to find on the Internet). When filling out an application, you must provide the model name of the washing machine, the year of manufacture of the household appliance, and describe in detail the problem that has arisen.
Depending on what exactly caused the door to not lock, repairing a washing machine will cost from 1,500 rubles. up to 3000 rub. The urgency of order fulfillment increases the cost of the specialist’s services.
If the “specialist” demands the full amount to be paid without even starting the repair (at the diagnostic stage), you should refuse such services. Full payment is made only upon completion of the repair, after a test run of the washing machine.
