How to troubleshoot & clear an i40 error on an Electrolux dishwasher

Is your Electrolux dishwasher displaying an i40 error code and not running or cleaning properly? This common issue is usually related to the pressure sensor detecting low water levels due to a clogged filter and can cause a few different problems with the machine.

But don’t panic! With a few steps and some time, you can troubleshoot your Electrolux dishwasher yourself without the need for an expensive service call.

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

Disclaimer: 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 i40 error code mean?

Your dishwasher uses a pressure sensor to monitor the water fill level while it’s running. This sensor sends information about the water level to the control board.

When an i40 error code shows up, it means the control board has detected a problem with the pressure sensor readings. This can prevent the dishwasher from filling and washing dishes correctly.

Some common triggers for an i40 error include:

• Faulty electrical connections
• Debris clogging the sensor
• A faulty or damaged pressure sensor
• A faulty control board or a board without proper voltage

Read more: How to Clean a 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 preventing any risk of electric shock.
• 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.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.

Read more: Dishwasher Not Fully Cleaning Dishes: Top 5 Reasons & Fixes

How to troubleshoot the i40 error code

Follow these steps to troubleshoot & resolve the i40 error on an Electrolux dishwasher.

Step 1: Power cycle

1. Unplug the dishwasher from the power source or turn it off at the breaker. Wait for at least 10 minutes before reconnecting.
2. Plug the appliance back into the power source and turn it on. Check if the error code i40 is still displayed. If the i40 code is still showing up, move to the next step.

Step 2: Check the water level

1. Open the dishwasher door and inspect the bottom of the tub.
2. If the water level is visibly low or barely covering the heating element, check that there’s water coming into the machine and through the water valve at the correct pressure. The water valve controls the flow of water into the machine.
3. Make sure the water valve is in the open position. If the valve is partially closed, rotate it to open it fully.

Step 3: Clean the filter

A clogged filter in the sump area can restrict water flow and trigger a low water level error.

The filter prevents debris from entering the dishwasher’s pump and spray arms, but over time it can become clogged with food particles, grease, or other residue.

1. Carefully remove the filter from its housing. Depending on the model, the filter may twist, pull, or unscrew. Take note of the filter’s orientation so you can reinstall it correctly.
2. Rinse the filter under running water to remove any debris and buildup. Use a soft brush or toothbrush to gently scrub away any stubborn residue.
3. Reinstall the filter when it’s completely dry.
4. Plug the dishwasher back in and turn it on. Check to see if the i40 error has disappeared.

If the i40 error persists, move on to the next step.

Step 4: Access the pressure sensor

1. Tilt the unit backward so that its rear portion rests on the floor. This will give you better access to the pressure sensor.
2. Find the adjustment screw in the bottom tray of the unit.
3. Use a screwdriver to remove the adjustment screw from the snap that holds it in place. Set the adjustment screw aside.
4. Find the three snaps that hold the bottom tray to the unit. These snaps should be located along the edges of the tray.
5. Use a pair of pliers to carefully release each snap by gently squeezing and pulling it away from the tray. Repeat this process for all three snaps.
6. Take out the bottom tray from the unit and set it aside.
7. Find the pressure sensor on the sump housing at the center of the bottom of the cabinet.
8. Gently pull the connector away from the sensor to detach it. Take care not to damage the connector or sensor during this process.
9. Find the snap that holds the pressure sensor in place on the sump housing.
10. Carefully insert the tip of a flat-head screwdriver under the snap and apply gentle pressure to release it. This will release the pressure sensor from its snap.
11. Lift the sensor away from the housing.

Step 5: Test the pressure sensor

1. Set a multimeter to measure resistance in Ohms (Ω).
2. Use the multimeter probes to measure the resistance between the terminals of the pressure sensor.
3. Refer to your dishwasher’s user manual or technical sheet for the acceptable range of resistance. If the measured resistance of the pressure sensor isn’t within the specified range, then the pressure sensor is faulty and needs to be replaced.

If the pressure sensor resistance is good, inspect the wire harness connected to the pressure sensor and the main control board. Look for any signs of damage, loose connections, or frayed wires. If any issues are found, replace the wire harness.

If all the above checks are good, then replace the control board.

Read more: How to level a dishwasher

More information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your Electrolux dishwasher 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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