CE
What code CE means on a Kenmore washing machines, what causes it, and which part to check first.
● SEVERITY: HIGH
Kenmore CE means: Communications error between the main electronic control board and the motor control board. The documented cause is: Unplug the washer and check the wire harness connections between the main electronic control board and the motor control board. Reconnect any loose wires or replace the wire harness if damaged.
What CE means
Communications error between the main electronic control board and the motor control board
The display shows CE and the machine stops until the fault is cleared.
What the technical documentation says
Causes documented in the technical source published by applianceaid.com
| DOCUMENTED CAUSE OR CHECK |
|---|
| Unplug the washer and check the wire harness connections between the main electronic control board and the motor control board |
| Reconnect any loose wires or replace the wire harness if damaged |
| Check the wire harness connections between the motor control board and the drive motor |
| Also check the wire harness connections between the drain pump and the motor control board because the motor control board also powers the drain pump |
| Reconnect any loose wires or replace any wire harness that's damaged |
| If the wire connections are okay, replace the motor control board |
| If the problem continues, replace the main electronic control board |
Replacement parts
Tools you'll need
Before you open anything
Unplug the machine and close the water tap before removing any panel. Water and mains electricity sit centimetres apart inside a washing machine. If the drum still holds water, drain it from the filter first — it can be scalding.
What to check, in order
From the quickest check to the one that needs a technician.
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Frequently asked questions
What does CE mean on a Kenmore?
Communications error between the main electronic control board and the motor control board The documented cause is: Unplug the washer and check the wire harness connections between the main electronic control board and the motor control board. Reconnect any loose wires or replace the wire harness if damaged. Check the wire harness connections between the motor control board and the drive motor. Also check the wire harness connections between the drain pump and the motor control board because the motor control board also powers the drain pump. Reconnect any loose wires or replace any wire harness that's damaged. If the wire connections are okay, replace the motor control board. If the problem continues, replace the main electronic control board
Can I fix CE myself?
It depends on the part involved: Unplug the washer and check the wire harness connections between the main electronic control board and the motor control board. Reconnect any loose wires or replace the wire harness if damaged. Check the wire harness connections between the motor control board and the drive motor. Also check the wire harness connections between the drain pump and the motor control board because the motor control board also powers the drain pump. Reconnect any loose wires or replace any wire harness that's damaged. If the wire connections are okay, replace the motor control board. If the problem continues, replace the main electronic control board Clearing a filter or straightening a hose is within reach of anyone; anything behind a panel means mains electricity and water together — that is a job for a technician.
Does Kenmore use other codes on this appliance?
Yes: we document 142 other codes for Kenmore on this washing machines. They are listed at the bottom of this page, each with its own meaning.
Does the same code mean the same thing on other brands?
Often not. The same two characters can point to completely different faults depending on the manufacturer — always check the page for your own brand.