The E42 error on your Frigidaire washing machine means the door lock mechanism has failed to lock or unlock properly within the expected time. The washer’s control board cannot confirm the door is secured, so it stops the cycle as a safety measure. This is usually fixable by checking the door latch and lock switch before calling for service.

Error code E42
Meaning Door lock (latch) failure — the machine can’t confirm the door is locked or unlocked
Severity Medium — the washer won’t run a cycle until resolved, but it’s rarely a major repair
Time to fix 10–30 minutes
Tools needed Screwdriver, multimeter (optional, for testing the lock switch)

What the E42 error means

Frigidaire front-load and some top-load washers use an electronic door lock to keep the door shut during wash and spin cycles. The E42 code appears when the control board sends a signal to lock or unlock the door but doesn’t receive confirmation back within a set time, typically a few seconds. This can point to a mechanical jam, a worn-out lock switch, or a wiring issue between the door lock assembly and the main control board.

Similar sensor-confirmation errors show up on other Frigidaire appliances, such as the Frigidaire EF Error Code on refrigerators, where the control board also waits for a signal it doesn’t receive.

Common causes

  • Door not fully closed or latch misaligned with the strike plate
  • Worn or broken door lock/switch assembly
  • Debris, lint, or a foreign object blocking the latch mechanism
  • Loose or damaged wiring harness connecting the door lock to the control board
  • Faulty main control board failing to read the lock signal correctly
  • A power surge or brief outage that left the lock in an unknown state

How to fix the E42 error

  1. Power cycle the washer: Unplug the machine for 1–2 minutes, then plug it back in. This resets the control board and clears many temporary lock errors.
  2. Check the door and latch: Open and close the door firmly, making sure nothing is caught in the seal or blocking the latch from fully engaging.
  3. Inspect the door lock assembly: Remove the top or front panel (depending on model) to look at the lock mechanism for visible damage, corrosion, or a broken hook.
  4. Test the door lock switch: Use a multimeter to check continuity on the lock switch. If it doesn’t show continuity when engaged, the switch needs replacing.
  5. Examine the wiring harness: Trace the wires from the lock assembly to the control board, checking for loose connectors, chafing, or corrosion.
  6. Replace the door lock assembly: If the switch or mechanism has failed, install a new door lock assembly matching your model number, then run a test cycle to confirm the fix.

FAQ

Can I still use my washer if it shows E42?
No, most Frigidaire models will not start or continue a cycle until the door lock error is cleared, since it’s a safety feature to keep the door shut during operation.

Is the E42 error the same as a door open error?
Not exactly. A door open error usually means the sensor detects the door as open, while E42 specifically means the lock mechanism itself isn’t responding correctly, even if the door appears closed.

How much does it cost to fix an E42 error?
If it’s just a reset or clearing debris, it costs nothing. A replacement door lock assembly typically runs £30–£80 (or $40–$100) plus labor if you hire a technician.