Troubleshoot the i50 error on a Frigidaire dishwasher in 5 simple steps

If your Frigidaire dishwasher is displaying an i50 error, it usually means there’s a problem with the circulation pump and heater assembly that powers the wash cycle. Let’s walk through everything you need to troubleshoot and resolve the i50 error code so you can get your dishwasher working again in no time.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your Frigidaire dishwasher 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.

Important: The error code 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 i50 error code mean?

The circulation pump is the workhorse that drives the dishwasher’s wash system to circulate water and clean dishes. It provides the mechanical force for the entire washing process.

When an i50 error code appears, it usually means the control board has detected an issue with the wash motor. Some possible causes include:

• The motor doesn’t turn on
• The motor runs when it should be off
• Electrical connection problems
• A short circuit
• Failed windings
• A blocked impeller

Read more: Best Loading Techniques For Your Dishwasher

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 you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• 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.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.

Read more: How to Clean a Dishwasher

How to troubleshoot the i50 error code

Diagnose and fix your dishwasher by following these steps.

Step 1: Check electrical connections

1. Unplug the dishwasher from the power outlet.
2. Find the wiring harness that runs from the control board to the wash motor. Check it for any damage. If it’s damaged, replace it.
3. Make sure the harness connector is firmly plugged into the control board. Wiggle it a bit to confirm it’s properly seated.
4. Remove the connector and inspect each individual pin for corrosion, dirt, damage, or bends. Clean it gently with an electrical contact cleaner if needed.
5. Set a multimeter to resistance mode (Ω) and use the probes to check the resistance on each wire in the harness leading to the wash motor. Refer to the dishwasher’s service documentation / technical sheet for acceptable resistance.

If you get a resistance reading outside the expected range, and the motor checks good at the end of troubleshooting, then you’ll need to replace the wiring.

If the wiring checks out OK, move on to the next step.

Step 2: Check voltage

LIVE VOLTAGE WARNING: For this test, the dishwasher needs to be plugged in and powered on. Please be very careful to protect yourself from electric shock, which has the potential to cause serious injuries. Don’t ever test live voltage if you’re uncomfortable using a multimeter.

1. Make sure the dishwasher is plugged in and turned on.
2. Initiate a test cycle and use a multimeter to monitor the voltage at the wash motor connector.
3. Use the multimeter probes to check the voltage on all motor power input pins while the dishwasher is running. Refer to the dishwasher’s service documentation / technical sheet for acceptable voltage readings.

If you get low or no voltage from the board, then there’s a control board output failure and the board will need to be replaced.

If you got good voltage, move on to the next step.

Step 3: Check the motor’s operation

1. Start a cycle and listen for the wash motor to turn on. If you don’t hear a startup sound, then that means there’s either no power or the motor is bad.
2. Feel for vibration on the motor housing while the dishwasher is running. If there’s no vibration or excessive vibration, then there’s likely a problem with the motor.
3. Turn off the dishwasher. If the motor continues to run even when the machine is off, then there’s likely an internal short circuit in the control board, which would need to be replaced.

If everything has checked out OK so far, move on to the next step.

Step 4: Check the individual motor parts

• Manually rotate the motor shaft to check for grinding, catching, or rough spots, which indicate internal damage.
• Check the windings for signs of burned, discolored, or damaged insulation.
• Inspect the motor housing, gaskets, and mounting hardware for cracks or degradation, which can allow moisture to enter.

Step 5: Check motor winding resistance

1. Unplug the dishwasher and disconnect the wash motor wiring harness.
2. Set the multimeter to resistance mode (Ω) and use the probes to measure resistance across the individual motor windings. Refer to the wiring diagram for your model to determine the test points corresponding to each motor coil winding.
3. Check the meter reading. The 3-winding motor resistance should measure 56 Ohms across the winding pairs.

If you don’t get acceptable readings, replace the motor.

Read more: Dishwasher Won’t Drain: Top 5 Reasons and Fixes

More information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you clear the i50 error on your Frigidaire dishwasher.

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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