The F5 error on your Indesit Dishwasher means the turbidity (water clarity) sensor is sending an incorrect or no signal to the control board. Cleaning the sensor and checking its wiring resolves this in most cases.

Error code F5
Meaning Turbidity sensor fault — the dishwasher cannot correctly read how clean or dirty the wash water is
Severity Medium — the dishwasher may still run a cycle but wash quality and cycle timing can be affected
Time to fix 15–40 minutes
Tools needed Screwdriver, multimeter (optional), clean cloth

What the F5 error means

Indesit dishwashers use a turbidity sensor, sometimes called a water clarity sensor, to check how dirty the water is during a wash. This helps the machine decide whether to add an extra rinse or shorten a cycle. When the control board gets a faulty or missing reading from this sensor, it displays the F5 error code.

This fault is often caused by something simple like limescale build-up or food debris on the sensor lens rather than a major component failure, so it’s worth checking the easy fixes first before assuming a part needs replacing.

Common causes

  • Limescale or grease coating the turbidity sensor lens
  • Food debris blocking the sensor housing
  • Loose or corroded wiring connector at the sensor
  • Faulty turbidity sensor unit
  • Damaged wiring harness between the sensor and control board
  • Main control board fault (less common)

How to fix the F5 error

  1. Power down the dishwasher: Switch off at the wall and unplug the machine before doing any checks, to avoid electric shock.
  2. Locate the turbidity sensor: It’s usually mounted inside the tub near the base or on the sump area. Check your model’s manual if you’re unsure of the exact position.
  3. Clean the sensor lens: Gently wipe away any limescale, grease or food residue with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that could scratch the lens.
  4. Inspect the wiring connector: Unclip the connector, check for corrosion or looseness, and reseat it firmly. A loose connection is a common cause of this fault.
  5. Test with a multimeter: If you’re comfortable doing so, check the sensor’s resistance against the manufacturer’s spec to confirm it’s working correctly.
  6. Restart and monitor: Plug the dishwasher back in, run a short cycle, and watch for the F5 code returning. If it does, the sensor likely needs replacing.

FAQ

Can I still use my dishwasher with an F5 error showing?
You can try running a cycle, but wash performance may suffer since the machine can’t properly judge water clarity. It’s best to fix the fault before regular use.

Do I need a professional to replace the turbidity sensor?
Not always. If you’re comfortable unplugging appliances and handling basic wiring, many homeowners replace this sensor themselves. If you’re unsure, a qualified engineer can do it safely.

Is F5 the same issue as error codes on Indesit washing machines?
No, dishwasher and washing machine fault codes differ by model range. If you’re troubleshooting a washing machine instead, see guides like Indesit Washing F05 Error Code: Causes and Fixes or Indesit Washing F04 Error Code: Causes and Fixes for the correct steps.