Troubleshooting Steps for Frigidaire Washer Error Code F04

If your Frigidaire washer displays the F04 error, this is a fairly common problem that can often be resolved with some straightforward troubleshooting steps. We’ll walk you through the most likely causes and how to fix the issue yourself without the need to call in a repair technician. 

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your appliance while you’re troubleshooting, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

The troubleshooting information in this article is based on general service manuals and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

What does the error code mean?

The F04 error indicates a problem with the washer not advancing or a speed control issue. This fault could be temporary. Resetting power to the washer may clear the error if it is a temporary fault. 

When a problem is detected, the washer’s control system will stop the machine and display the F04 code to indicate an issue with the washer advancing or a speed control problem. 

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of injury from electric shock.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with bare wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check your user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions for your part or appliance. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any heating parts to cool down before working on it. 
• Take pictures or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting to prevent any problems with reassembly.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.

Troubleshooting steps

Step 1: Observe the tub rotation and agitation

1. Select and start the Heavy Duty cycle with the heavy soil/stain option deactivated.
2. Observe if the tub is rotating and beginning to fill with water.
3. If the tub is not turning but is filling with water, wait about 30 seconds after the tub is full and confirm if the washer is agitating.

Step 2: Test the motor operation

1. If the motor is running and the tub is filled, let the washer run for at least 6 minutes.
2. Measure the Voltage:
3. During the 6-minute run time, use a multimeter to measure the voltage between:
4. Pin 1 of the 8-pin connector (J11)
5. Pin 7 of the 7-pin connector (J6)
6. The voltage should be below 50VAC when the timer advance is off and should measure at line voltage (approximately 120VAC) when the timer advance is on.
7. Constantly monitor the voltmeter throughout the 6-minute run time to ensure you observe the voltage change, as the timer advance is only on for a short time and could be missed when it reverts to the lower voltage reading when the timer advance is off.

Step 3: Troubleshoot the speed control

1. If the voltage measurements do not match the expected values, there may be an issue with the speed control or related components.
2. Locate the speed control, which is typically accessible from the back of the washer.
3. Unplug the washer from the power source.
4. Disconnect the wiring harness from the speed control.
5. Use a multimeter to measure the resistance of the speed control, and compare the readings to the manufacturer’s specifications.
6. If the speed control is out of the expected resistance range, order a replacement.
7. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to properly install the new speed control.
8. Plug the washer back into the power source.
9. Run a test wash cycle and check for the F04 error code. If the error does not reappear, the repair was successful.

Additional information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your washer working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos. 

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more.

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