Error code E40 on a Zanussi washing machine

Sometimes, when using a Zanussi washing machine, a problem arises: the machine turns on, runs for a few seconds, and then turns off, displaying an E40 error. If the problem isn't identified and resolved, the machine will never work. Read our article to find out why your Zanussi washing machine displays the E40 error and how to fix it.

Causes of the error, related codes

E40 is a fairly standard error code, indicating a faulty door lock. The Zanussi machine's control board has a diagnostic mode that can be used to more accurately determine the cause of the problem. If your machine doesn't have a program selector, the procedure will be slightly different:

1. In the picture below, you will see two keys on the right under the number 1. Press them simultaneously.
2. Hold down the buttons marked 1 and simultaneously press the button marked 2 to turn on the washing machine. Continue holding the buttons until all the machine indicators begin flashing.

If your washing machine is equipped with software, then, as was said, you just need to enter the diagnostic mode. To do this, press and hold the two buttons on the right for a few seconds. If you do everything correctly, E40 will disappear from the display, and instead of this code, one of the other error codes will appear:

• E41 is a fault code that informs the user that the closed hatch is not tight.
• E42 – indicates a malfunction of the door locking system.
• E43 – The triac, which is responsible for the operation of the hatch locking device, is broken.
• E44 – drum door opening sensor is faulty.
• E45 – There's a special circuit between the target triac and the blocking device. E45 indicates a fault in this component.

Once you have identified the cause of your washing machine's malfunction, you can move on to the next troubleshooting steps.

Changing the locking device

However, the E40 error code doesn't always indicate serious problems with the machine's components. Therefore, don't enter diagnostic mode immediately after the display shows the error. First, press the hatch door with your knee, gently but firmly. In some cases, the machine resumes normal operation after this. However, if this doesn't help, diagnose the error using the method described above or check the faulty machine components yourself. The best place to start is with the hatch door.

1. Open the door and remove the clamp from the hatch rubber cuff.
2. The lock is attached to the door with special bolts, they are clearly visible from the outside, unscrew them.
3. Get the lock.
4. Check all contacts (contacts 3 and 4 are closed, and 4 and 5 are open).
5. Install the new lock, carefully freeing the old one from the wires
6. Return the clamp to its original position.
7. Turn on the washing mode to check the operation of the machine.

If everything works properly, you've completed the task and now know what to do and how to troubleshoot the issue. Error E40 can occur at any time, and knowing how to handle it will save you a lot of time.

Other faults that cause the code

The control board is connected to the door lock system via special electrical wires. If one of them stops working, the connection between the board and the door lock system is broken, and you'll see an error code on the screen. Use a multimeter to check each wire individually to find the faulty one.

The tranmitter responsible for the door lock is located on the control board. And it's much more difficult to repair. Unless you have specialized training, you likely won't even be able to find this small component on the board. And even if you do, if it's faulty, the board will require resoldering, which you're unlikely to be able to do yourself.

The image below shows a photograph of the EWM200 model board. The part we need is marked with the words "This component has failed" and is located in the lower right corner. Of course, if you have some experience with similar issues, you can try to fix the part yourself, but if not, it's best to consult a specialist.

However, the appearance of the E40 code on your car's display could be caused by a failure of any other component in the door opening and closing system (a broken lock itself, a burnt-out triac). Therefore, to accurately diagnose the problem, you'll need to check all components of the aforementioned system.

At the very least, knowing at least roughly what's causing this error and how to fix it, you can try to improve your device's performance yourself. Calling a technician is a last resort if your own troubleshooting fails.

   

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