Solve Frigidaire Washer Error Code E40 with These Easy Fixes

If your Frigidaire washer displays the E40 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 E40 error code is specifically related to the door switch circuit on the washing machine. The door switch is an important safety feature that prevents the washer from operating if the door is not properly closed and latched.

When the door is closed, the door switch should detect that the circuit is complete, indicating the door is shut. When the door is opened, the switch should register an open circuit. The main control board monitors this door switch signal and uses it to enable or disable the washer operation accordingly.

If the E40 error appears, it means the control board is detecting an issue with the door switch circuit. This could be due to a few potential problems:

• Door switch failure – The door switch itself may be malfunctioning and not properly registering the open/closed state of the door. This could be due to a mechanical issue with the switch, a wiring problem, or simply a failed component.
• Door latch/strike misalignment – If the door latch mechanism is out of alignment, it may not be properly engaging the door switch when the door is closed. This would cause the control board to see an open circuit, even when the door is shut.
• Control board fault – In some cases, the issue may lie with the main control board itself. If the control board is not properly interpreting the door switch signal, it will trigger the E40 error.

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: Inspect the door 

1. Check the door strike and hinges for any visible damage, wear, or misalignment. Ensure the door is closing and latching properly.
2. Verify that the door latch is moving freely and engaging the door strike correctly when the door is closed.
3. Inspect the door gasket for any tears, cracks, or deformation that could prevent a proper seal.

Step 2: Test the door switch assembly

1. Disconnect the wiring connector from the J2 terminal on the main control board.
2. Use a multimeter to check for continuity across the door switch terminals.
3. With the door open, the door switch should show continuity (a closed circuit).
4. With the door closed and latched, the door switch should show no continuity (an open circuit).
5. If the door switch does not operate as expected, replace the door switch assembly.

Step 3: Check the main control board

1. If the door switch is functioning properly (showing the expected open/closed states), the issue may be with the main control board.
2. Leave the wiring connector disconnected from the J2 terminal on the main control board.
3. Use the multimeter to check for continuity across the door switch terminals on the main control board.
4. With the door open, there should be continuity (a closed circuit).
5. With the door closed and latched, there should be no continuity (an open circuit).
6. If the main control board is not registering the proper open/closed states from the door switch, replace the main control board.

Step 4: Reconnect and verify operation

1. Once the door switch assembly or main control board has been replaced, reconnect the wiring connector to the J2 terminal on the main control board.
2. Run a test cycle to ensure the new component is functioning correctly and the E40 error code is cleared.

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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