F26
What code F26 means on a Kenmore washing machines, what causes it, and which part to check first.
● SEVERITY: HIGH
Kenmore F26 means: Door switch error. The documented cause is: The control detects that the door hasn't opened for 3 consecutive cycles or the door switch indicates that the door is open with the door lock engaged.
What F26 means
Door switch error
The display shows F26 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 control detects that the door hasn't opened for 3 consecutive cycles or the door switch indicates that the door is open with the door lock engaged |
| If you've run 3 consecutive cycles without opening the door, open and shut the door to clear the code |
| If the door switch detects the door open while locked, push on the door to make sure it's completely closed |
| Unplug the washer and check the wire harness connections between the door lock/switch assembly and the main electronic control board |
| Reconnect any loose wires or replace the wire harness if damaged |
| If the wire connections are okay, replace the door lock/switch assembly |
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 F26 mean on a Kenmore?
Door switch error The documented cause is: The control detects that the door hasn't opened for 3 consecutive cycles or the door switch indicates that the door is open with the door lock engaged. If you've run 3 consecutive cycles without opening the door, open and shut the door to clear the code. If the door switch detects the door open while locked, push on the door to make sure it's completely closed. Unplug the washer and check the wire harness connections between the door lock/switch assembly and the main electronic control board. Reconnect any loose wires or replace the wire harness if damaged. If the wire connections are okay, replace the door lock/switch assembly
Can I fix F26 myself?
It depends on the part involved: The control detects that the door hasn't opened for 3 consecutive cycles or the door switch indicates that the door is open with the door lock engaged. If you've run 3 consecutive cycles without opening the door, open and shut the door to clear the code. If the door switch detects the door open while locked, push on the door to make sure it's completely closed. Unplug the washer and check the wire harness connections between the door lock/switch assembly and the main electronic control board. Reconnect any loose wires or replace the wire harness if damaged. If the wire connections are okay, replace the door lock/switch assembly 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.