Kenmore 402 model front-load washer error codes
These error code explanations can help you diagnose a problem with your Kenmore front-load washer with a model number that starts with 402. For repair how-to help, visit the PartsDirect repair help section, which includes repair help for washing machines, other major appliances, lawn and garden equipment, garage door openers, vacuum cleaners and more. Search for your model number to find a complete list of replacement parts for your washer.
Won't drain
Washer fails to drain within 15 minutes. Check the washer drain path for a clog or restriction. Clear the large item filter in the drain pump. If the drain pump is defective or damaged, replace it.
Door unlock error
The door fails to unlock after 7 attempts. Unplug the washer. You will usually need to force the door open. This often damages the door lock/switch assembly. Replace that assembly if it's damaged or defective.
Water fill problem
The washer fills for 40 minutes or the water level doesn't change after 6 minutes. Check the water supply faucets behind the washer to make sure that they are fully open. Check the water fill lines for kinks or freezing (in the winter). Check the water inlet fill valves. If the valves are defective, replace the water inlet valve assembly.
Door lock error
Door fails to lock after 7 attempts. Unplug the washer and check the wiring harness connections to the door lock assembly. If the wiring connections are okay, then the door lock assembly will usually need to be replaced.
Low water level during the cycle
Water level drops below the reset level during the wash or rinse portion of the cycle. Check for leaks in the washer tub and connected components. Check the installation of the drain system. Water can siphon out of the washer if it's not installed properly.
Water level sensor failure
Unplug the washer. Check the wire harness connections between the water level sensor and the main control board. If no problems are found, then the water level pressure sensor will usually need to be replaced.
Water overflow
If the washer is overfilled, unplug it to see if it continues to fill while unplugged. If it does, replace the water inlet valve assembly because the inlet water valves aren't shutting off water flow. If the washer isn't overfilled, replace the water level sensor because it isn't accurately detecting water level.
Unbalanced load
The load is detected as unbalanced during the final spin. The basket will not spin over 150 rpm when this code is displayed. Cancel the cycle or let it end. Adjust the load and see if the washer will spin properly. If not, then inspect the suspension system in the cabinet. Replace any defective parts.
Stuck button
A button on the control panel is stuck. Try to free the button. Press down directly on top of all keys on the control panel. If that doesn't free the stuck key, press down slightly off-center on all keys. If you can't free the button, replace the user interface control board (also called the Sub-PCB control board).
Door is open while attempting to lock it
The control detects that the washer door is open while it's being locked. Use the diagnostic test mode to check the door lock/switch assembly. If that component is defective, replace it.
Temperature is out of range high or low
Use the diagnostic test mode to check the water temperature that the control board is sensing. If the actual temperature is significantly different, then the temperature sensor (also called the thermistor) will need to be replaced.
No signal from the drive motor tachometer
Unplug the washer. Check the wire harness connections between the drive motor and the main control board. Reconnect any loose wires or replace the wire harness if damaged. If the wire connections are okay, replace the motor tachometer. If the problem continues, replace the drive motor.
Heater relay failure
The heater relay is a component on the Main PCB control board. Unplug the washer for 5 minutes to reset the Main PCB control board. Plug the washer back in. If the code returns, replace the Main PCB control board.
Hot and cold water connections are reversed
Connect the hot and cold water fill hoses correctly.
Internal control board failure
Unplug the washer for 5 minutes to reset the electronic control board. Plug the washer back in. If the code returns, replace the electronic control board.
Excessive suds
Excessive suds is detected during the cycle. The cycle goes into a suds kill routine by filling the tube with water and then tumbling the clothes. If this routine doesn't eliminate the suds, the control displays the Sud code. Use the right amount of high-efficiency (HE) detergent with future loads.
Communication error between the main control board and the display control board
Unplug the washer and check the wire harness connections between the main control board and the display control board. Reconnect any loose wires or replace the wire harness if damaged. If the wire connections are okay, replace the main control board, If the problem continues, replace the display control board.
Electronic control board error
Unplug the washer for 5 minutes to reset the electronic control board. Plug the washer back in. If the code returns, replace the electronic control board.
Most common symptoms to help you fix your washers
Choose a symptom to see related washer repairs.
Main causes: broken lid switch or lid lock, bad pressure switch, broken shifter assembly, faulty control system…
Main causes: lack of electrical power, wiring failure, bad power cord, electronic control board failure, bad user interf…
Main causes: leaky water inlet valve, faulty water-level pressure switch, bad electronic control board…
Main causes: water heater failure, bad water temperature switch, faulty control board, bad water valve, faulty water tem…
Main causes: no water supply, bad water valves, water-level pressure switch failure, control system failure, bad door lo…
Main causes: worn agitator dogs, bad clutch, broken motor coupler, shifter assembly failure, broken door lock, suspensio…
Main causes: unbalanced load, loose spanner nut, worn drive block, broken shock absorber or suspension spring, debris in…
Main causes: clogged drain hose, house drain clogged, bad drain pump, water-level pressure switch failure, bad control b…
Main causes: bad lid switch or door lock, bad timer or electronic control board, wiring failure, bad water inlet valve a…
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