FE
What code FE means on a Kenmore dishwashers, what causes it, and which part to check first.
● SEVERITY: HIGH
Kenmore FE means: Water overflow detected. The documented cause is: The drain pump automatically runs when the FE code is displayed. A leaking water inlet valve or a stuck relay on the electronic control board can allow water to fill the dishwasher constantly.
What FE means
Water overflow detected
The display shows FE 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 |
|---|
| The drain pump automatically runs when the FE code is displayed |
| A leaking water inlet valve or a stuck relay on the electronic control board can allow water to fill the dishwasher constantly |
| To check for a leaky water inlet valve, unplug the dishwasher and see if the tub continues to fill with water |
| If it does, shut off the water supply and replace the water inlet valve because the valve is letting water to flow into the dishwasher constantly |
| If water stops filling when you unplug the dishwasher, then you'll likely need to replace the 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. The heating element and the wash water can stay hot long after the cycle ends.
What to check, in order
From the quickest check to the one that needs a technician.
Find a specialist
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Frequently asked questions
What does FE mean on a Kenmore?
Water overflow detected The documented cause is: The drain pump automatically runs when the FE code is displayed. A leaking water inlet valve or a stuck relay on the electronic control board can allow water to fill the dishwasher constantly. To check for a leaky water inlet valve, unplug the dishwasher and see if the tub continues to fill with water. If it does, shut off the water supply and replace the water inlet valve because the valve is letting water to flow into the dishwasher constantly. If water stops filling when you unplug the dishwasher, then you'll likely need to replace the electronic control board
Can I fix FE myself?
It depends on the part involved: The drain pump automatically runs when the FE code is displayed. A leaking water inlet valve or a stuck relay on the electronic control board can allow water to fill the dishwasher constantly. To check for a leaky water inlet valve, unplug the dishwasher and see if the tub continues to fill with water. If it does, shut off the water supply and replace the water inlet valve because the valve is letting water to flow into the dishwasher constantly. If water stops filling when you unplug the dishwasher, then you'll likely need to replace the 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 13 other codes for Kenmore on this dishwashers. 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.