Kenmore Washer OE Error Code
Front-loader drains slowly on Kenmore washers.
KenmoreAll Kenmore washer codes
Water isn't pumping out fast enough. A clogged house drain, a kinked or restricted drain hose, a loose wire at the pump or a pump that won't run are the causes Sears PartsDirect lists for these models.
Compatible models
Kenmore front-load washers with a model number starting 796.
Also shown as
This code is listed for 796 front-loaders. The 110-series front-loaders use F21 or F/02 for drain trouble, and 417 front-loaders use E21 or EF1.
Difficulty
Start with the safe checks below; a worn part may need replacing.
Not sure you are reading the code right? See how to read Kenmore washer codes.
How to fix Kenmore OE
Straighten the drain hose
Follow the hose from the back of the washer to the drain and remove any kinks or crushed sections.
Clean the pump filter
Unplug the washer. If your use and care guide shows a pump filter behind a small access door at the bottom front, lay down towels, drain the water into a shallow pan, then unscrew the filter and clear out lint, coins or hair pins.
Run Drain/Spin
Plug the washer back in and run Drain/Spin to confirm water leaves quickly.
When to call a technician
If the filter and hose are clear and the pump doesn't run when the washer calls for a drain, the pump or its wiring needs a technician's attention.
Parts linked to OE
These are the parts most often behind this code. Tap one to see what it does and the signs it is failing.
Order parts by your full model number so they fit.
Step-by-step guides for this problem
- 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 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.
Frequently asked questions
Which Kenmore models show the OE code?
Kenmore front-load washers with a model number starting 796.
Can I fix Kenmore OE myself?
Often. The first steps above are safe checks a homeowner can do. If they don't clear OE, the cause is likely a worn part that needs replacing.
Other 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
- 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
Last reviewed 2026-10-21. Codes and steps can vary by model; check your owner's manual.