Electrolux Washer E42 — What It Means & How to Fix It
E42 is the washer's way of saying it can't confirm the door is locked — the mechanism isn't registering, so cycles won't run.
What this code means
E42 means the door lock device isn't being recognized — the door is closed, but the washer can't confirm the lock engaged, so it won't start the cycle.
Applies to Electrolux front-load washers (EFL/ELFW/EIFLW series); pair E42's checks with E41's door-switch steps — this code is specifically the lock not being recognized.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Door not fully closed or latch blocked so the lock can't engage | Common | Yes — close and clear it |
| Worn door-lock mechanism | Occasional | No — technician job |
| Wiring between lock and control board | Occasional | No — technician job |
| Control board not driving the lock | Less common | No — technician job |
What you can try yourself
- Open and re-close the door, listening for the click, and make sure nothing is trapped in the gasket.
- Check the latch and striker are clean and moving freely; wipe away any detergent or lint.
- Unplug the washer for a couple of minutes to reset the lock electronics, then try once more.
- If the lock still isn't recognized, the lock device or its wiring has failed — that's a technician repair.
Seeing the symptom rather than the code? Washer door or lid trouble: checks that apply across brands.
When to call a technician
- Never force a door that won't release after E42 — the lock may be energized; give it a few minutes before trying again.
- If the code repeats after closing, clearing and resetting, stop and schedule service.
Typical professional repair cost: $120–$280 typical for a professional door-lock replacement
Frequently asked questions
Will unplugging the washer fix E42?
A short reset clears some one-off lock faults. A worn lock mechanism returns the code as soon as the cycle tries to lock.
Why won't my door open after E42?
The lock is likely engaged and needs a few minutes to release — if it stays stuck past five minutes, a technician may need to release it safely.
Is this the same as E41?
Close but different — E41 is a door-open signal, E42 is the lock not being recognized. The display will show which one you have.
Sources checked
Error meanings can vary by model. This guide was checked against the documentation above; use the manual for the model number on your own appliance when it differs.
Related Electrolux codes
- Electrolux Washer E11 E11 appears when the wash phase tries to fill but can't reach the right water level in time — water is arriving, just too slowly, or not at all.
- Electrolux Washer E13 E13 is the washer's leak alarm — it senses water where it shouldn't be, usually in or under the tub area, and stops the cycle to protect the electronics.
- Electrolux Washer E21 E21 appears when the pump-out phase runs longer than the washer allows; water is still leaving the tub, just not fast enough.
- Electrolux Washer E31 E31 points to the electronic pressure switch — the part that tells the washer how full the tub is — and the control board is rejecting its signal.
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