F5 E3
What code F5 E3 means on a Kenmore washing machines, what causes it, and which part to check first.
● SEVERITY: HIGH
Kenmore F5 E3 means: Lid won't unlock. The documented cause is: Unplug the washer. Check the wire harness connections for the lid lock/switch assembly on the main electronic control board. If the connections are okay, then you will typically need to force the lid open.
What F5 E3 means
Lid won't unlock
The display shows F5 E3 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 |
| Check the wire harness connections for the lid lock/switch assembly on the main electronic control board |
| If the connections are okay, then you will typically need to force the lid open |
| This will usually break the lid lock/switch |
| Replace the lid lock/switch if it's damaged or broken |
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 F5 E3 mean on a Kenmore?
Lid won't unlock The documented cause is: Unplug the washer. Check the wire harness connections for the lid lock/switch assembly on the main electronic control board. If the connections are okay, then you will typically need to force the lid open. This will usually break the lid lock/switch. Replace the lid lock/switch if it's damaged or broken
Can I fix F5 E3 myself?
It depends on the part involved: Unplug the washer. Check the wire harness connections for the lid lock/switch assembly on the main electronic control board. If the connections are okay, then you will typically need to force the lid open. This will usually break the lid lock/switch. Replace the lid lock/switch if it's damaged or broken 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.