All 18 Kenmore washer codes
- F21Front-loader didn't drain in time
- F20Front-loader isn't filling
- F02Slow drain, or a control panel fault on Oasis
- F01Main control board fault
- F9E1Top-loader is draining too slowly
- F8E1Top-loader filling slowly or not at all
- F5E2Lid won't lock
- F7E1Basket speed sensor problem
- F0E5Top-loader load is off balance
- IEWater supply problem
- OEFront-loader drains slowly
- UELoad is unbalanced (796 models)
- dEDoor or lid not closed
- LEDrive motor locked or overloaded
- E21417 front-loader drains slowly
- E11417 front-loader is taking too long to fill
- SudToo many suds
- FEToo much water in the tub
About Kenmore washer error codes
Kenmore is an American appliance brand that was sold for decades through Sears. Other manufacturers built Kenmore appliances under contract, and the first three digits of the model number (such as 110, 417 or 796) tell you which product family you have. The error codes follow that family's system, so check your model number before you read a code.
How to read Kenmore washer codes
Kenmore washers were made for Sears by other manufacturers, so the codes depend on your model number. Look at the first three digits on the label (inside the lid, around the door opening or on the back). Repair references tie the 110 prefix to Whirlpool and 417 to Frigidaire, while 796 models use two-letter codes like IE, OE and UE. If a code on this page lists a different family than yours, its meaning may not apply.
Some Kenmore washers without a display flash lights instead of showing a code. On 417 front-loaders the status lights blink the first digit and the Start light blinks the second. On 110 VMW top-loaders without a display, the lid lock light flashes, and the Wash or Spin light staying on means a fill or drain problem.
For board and memory faults, Sears PartsDirect suggests unplugging the washer for 5 minutes before anything else. On 796 front-loaders the buttons stop responding while a code is showing, and the washer won't run again until the cause is dealt with.
Of the 18 codes on this page, 8 usually have a simple fix you can do yourself, and 3 usually need a technician. Each guide says which is which, so you don't pay for a service call you don't need, and you don't attempt a repair that isn't safe.
Kenmore washer repair guides
- Washer Won't Drain? 7 Causes and How to Fix Each One
Most washers that won't drain have a kinked drain hose, a pump filter packed with lint and small objects, or too many suds from the wrong detergent.
- How to Replace Washer Inlet Hoses: Braided vs Rubber Guide
Whirlpool and GE both recommend replacing washer fill hoses every 5 years, sooner if you see bulges, cracks or drips at the couplings.
- Front Load Washer Door Won't Open? Why It's Locked and What to Do
A front-load washer keeps its door locked while there's water in the drum, while the drum is still turning, or while the inside is hot, so a door that won't open usually means the washer hasn't drained.
- How to Clean a Washer Drain Pump Filter (Front-Load Guide)
The drain pump filter sits behind a small door or panel at the bottom front of most front-load washers.
- Washer Won't Start? 8 Things to Check Before Calling for Service
A washer that won't start usually has one of three simple problems: the control lock is on, the door or lid isn't fully latched, or the Start button wasn't held long enough (Whirlpool says up to 3 seconds on many models).
- Washer Won't Spin? 8 Causes and How to Fix Them at Home
A washer that won't spin is usually reacting to an unbalanced load, a low or no-spin setting, too many suds or water it can't drain.
Before you start
- Write down your model number. It's on a sticker, usually inside the door or lid, on the frame, or on the back or side panel. Parts and some code meanings depend on it.
- Try a reset. Unplug the washer or switch off its breaker for 10 minutes. This clears many one-off glitches without tools.
- Keep a towel and a shallow pan nearby. Many fixes involve water left in the drum or drain pump.