F-45
What code F-45 means on a Kenmore tumble dryers, what causes it, and which part to check first.
● SEVERITY: HIGH
Kenmore F-45 means: Blower motor speed sensor failure. The documented cause is: Check the wire harness connections between the blower motor and the blower motor control board. Reconnect any loose wires or replace the wire harness if damaged.
What F-45 means
Blower motor speed sensor failure
The display shows F-45 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 |
|---|
| Check the wire harness connections between the blower motor and the blower motor control board |
| Reconnect any loose wires or replace the wire harness if damaged |
| Check for a clogged exhaust vent because a clogged vent can restrict fan speed and trigger the F-45 code |
| Check to see if the blower fan spins freely |
| If not, check for a clog or restriction in the fan housing |
| Replace the blower fan if the fan spins freely and the exhaust vent is clear |
Replacement parts
Tools you'll need
Before you open anything
Unplug the machine before removing any panel. Lint is flammable: never run a dryer with the filter removed, and clear the duct if the code points to airflow.
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 F-45 mean on a Kenmore?
Blower motor speed sensor failure The documented cause is: Check the wire harness connections between the blower motor and the blower motor control board. Reconnect any loose wires or replace the wire harness if damaged. Check for a clogged exhaust vent because a clogged vent can restrict fan speed and trigger the F-45 code. Check to see if the blower fan spins freely. If not, check for a clog or restriction in the fan housing. Replace the blower fan if the fan spins freely and the exhaust vent is clear
Can I fix F-45 myself?
It depends on the part involved: Check the wire harness connections between the blower motor and the blower motor control board. Reconnect any loose wires or replace the wire harness if damaged. Check for a clogged exhaust vent because a clogged vent can restrict fan speed and trigger the F-45 code. Check to see if the blower fan spins freely. If not, check for a clog or restriction in the fan housing. Replace the blower fan if the fan spins freely and the exhaust vent is clear 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 65 other codes for Kenmore on this tumble dryers. 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.

