Siemens WM16W468DN – Error Codes & Troubleshooting

Washing Machines

Model overview

Common faults

Washing machine won't drain Medium

Fix a Siemens washing machine that won't drain. Learn what causes E20/E25 drain errors and how to clear the pump filter and drain hose step by step.

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Washing machine won't spin Medium

Fix a Siemens washing machine that won't spin. Covers E50/E52 motor errors, unbalanced load, drive belt, and spin cycle problems.

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Washing machine won't start Easy

Fix a Siemens washing machine that won't turn on or start a cycle. Check the door lock, power supply, child lock, and control board.

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Washing machine is leaking water Medium

Fix a Siemens washing machine leaking water. Covers door seal, hose connections, pump blockages, and E18/E27 leak-related error codes.

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Washing machine won't fill with water Medium

Fix a Siemens washing machine that won't fill with water. Covers E16/E17 inlet errors, inlet valve, water pressure, and hose kinks.

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Washing machine door won't open Easy

Fix a Siemens washing machine door that is stuck or won't open. Covers E44/E45 door lock errors, child lock, and water remaining in drum.

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Washing machine is making loud noise Medium

Fix a Siemens washing machine making banging, rattling, or grinding noises. Covers drum bearings, unbalanced load, and foreign objects.

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Washing machine not heating water Advanced

Fix a Siemens washing machine that isn't heating the water. Covers E60–E69 heating element errors, thermistor, and NTC temperature sensor faults.

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Washing machine vibrating excessively Easy

Fix a Siemens washing machine with excessive vibration or shaking. Covers levelling feet, transport bolts, drum balance, and floor stability.

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Clothes still wet after spin cycle Easy

Fix a Siemens washing machine leaving clothes too wet after spinning. Covers spin speed settings, unbalanced loads, and drainage issues.

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Washing machine has a bad smell Easy

Fix a Siemens washing machine with a bad smell or mould odour. Covers drum cleaning, door seal mould, detergent drawer, and filter maintenance.

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Door seal is damaged or mouldy Medium

Fix or replace a Siemens washing machine door seal (gasket). Covers mould removal, tear inspection, and step-by-step gasket replacement.

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Drum is not turning Advanced

Fix a Siemens washing machine where the drum won't rotate. Covers E50 motor fault, drive belt, carbon brushes, and drum bearing failure.

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Control panel is unresponsive Advanced

Fix a Siemens washing machine with an unresponsive control panel. Covers child lock, power reset, E91/E92 control board errors, and button faults.

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Washing machine won't complete a cycle Medium

Fix a Siemens washing machine that stops or pauses mid-cycle. Covers power supply, error codes, overheating, and door lock faults.

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Washing machine producing too much foam Easy

Fix a Siemens washing machine with excessive suds or foam. Covers detergent type, HE detergent requirements, overloading, and drum cleaning.

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Detergent not dispensing from the drawer Easy

Fix a Siemens washing machine that isn't dispensing detergent. Covers blocked drawer, water pressure, dispenser clogging, and cleaning steps.

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Washing machine trips the electrics Advanced

Fix a Siemens washing machine that trips the circuit breaker or RCD. Covers E68 earth leakage, heating element short, motor fault, and wiring.

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Washing machine has a burning smell Advanced

Fix a Siemens washing machine with a burning smell or smoke. Covers motor brushes, drive belt, wiring faults, and when to stop using the machine immediately.

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See all Siemens Washing Machines problems →

Error codes

CL

Child lock activated

Easy

The child lock feature is enabled on your washing machine, which prevents the cycle from starting as a safety measure. This is not an error or fault, but rather an intentional lock function. To resolve, simply press and hold the child lock button (usually for 3-5 seconds) until the indicator light turns off.

Guide coming soon
E16

Door lock or latch malfunction

Medium

The washing machine's door is not locking properly, preventing the cycle from starting. This is typically caused by laundry caught in the door frame, a faulty door lock mechanism, or a misaligned door. Try opening the door, removing any obstructions, closing it firmly, and restarting the cycle.

Guide coming soon
E17

Water supply problem

Medium

The E17 error indicates the washing machine is not receiving water within the expected time during the fill cycle. Common causes include a clogged inlet filter mesh, kinked water supply hoses, blocked inlet valve, or failed water level sensor. Start by checking the inlet hose for kinks, inspecting the filter mesh at the water inlet for debris, and ensuring the water supply taps are fully open.

Guide coming soon
E18

Drainage problem

Medium

The E18 error indicates the washing machine cannot drain water within the expected time. Common causes include a clogged drain filter, blocked or kinked drain hose, or a failed drain pump. Start by checking and cleaning the drain filter, inspecting the hose for blockages or kinks, and ensuring the drain is clear.

Guide coming soon
E20

Unexpected heating in washing machine

Advanced

The washing machine is detecting unexpected heating during the cycle, which triggers a safety shutdown. This is typically caused by a malfunction in the heating circuit or a control board error. Try resetting the machine by turning it off and back on; if the error persists, the heating element or control board may need professional inspection.

Guide coming soon
E21

Drainage system failure

Medium

The E21 error indicates a drainage problem preventing water from emptying properly from the washing machine. The most common causes are a clogged drain filter, blocked drain hose, or faulty drain pump. Start by checking and clearing the drain filter and hose for blockages before considering pump or motor replacement.

Guide coming soon
E22

Drainage problem or clogged filter

Easy

E22 indicates a drainage fault where water is not draining properly from the washing machine. The most common cause is a clogged or blocked drain filter filled with lint and debris. You can often fix this by locating and cleaning the drain filter, which is typically accessed from a panel at the bottom front of the machine.

Guide coming soon
E23

Water leak detection system triggered

Medium

Error E23 indicates the washing machine's water protection system has detected water leaking into the base plate or floor area beneath the machine. This is commonly caused by a disconnected or damaged inlet/outlet hose, a clogged drain filter, or a faulty drain pump. Start by checking all hose connections, cleaning the drain filter, and inspecting for visible water pooling under the machine.

Guide coming soon
E24

Drainage pump fault or blocked drain

Medium

The washing machine cannot drain water properly due to a clogged or faulty drainage pump. This is most commonly caused by blockages in the drain hose, pump filter, or pump itself from lint, debris, or foreign objects. Start by checking the drain hose for kinks or clogs, and inspect the pump filter for blockages before calling a technician.

Guide coming soon
E26

Pressure sensor fault

Advanced

The analogue pressure sensor in the water system is faulty or not reading correctly. This sensor monitors water levels during the wash cycle, and when it fails, the machine cannot properly detect water pressure or levels. This typically requires replacement of the pressure sensor/switch by a technician, though checking the pressure chamber pipe for blockages is worth attempting first.

Guide coming soon
E27

Door lock mechanism malfunction

Medium

The door locking mechanism has failed or is overheating, preventing the washing machine door from locking properly. This is commonly caused by wear, debris, or electrical failure in the door lock assembly. Start by unplugging the machine for 30 seconds to attempt a reset, then inspect the door lock for visible damage or debris.

Guide coming soon
E28

Flow sensor or drainage problem

Medium

The E28 error indicates a faulty flow sensor or a drainage issue preventing water from draining properly. The most common causes are a blocked drain filter, kinked drain hose, or a faulty drain pump. Start by checking and cleaning the drain pump filter and inspecting the drain hose for blockages or kinks.

Guide coming soon
E29

Water inlet system malfunction

Easy

The washing machine is not receiving sufficient water supply, typically due to a problem with the water inlet valve or supply lines. The most common causes are closed water supply valves, kinked hoses, or blocked inlet filters. Check that both hot and cold water taps are fully open and that supply hoses are not kinked or obstructed.

Guide coming soon
E30

Drainage system fault

Medium

The washing machine cannot drain water properly, typically caused by a blocked drain pump, clogged drain filter, or kinked drain hose. Start by checking and cleaning the drain pump filter for debris, inspecting the drain hose for blockages, and ensuring the pump cover is installed correctly. Excessive detergent suds can also restrict drainage.

Guide coming soon
E32

Unbalanced load detected during spin cycle

Easy

The washing machine's anti-balance detection system has interrupted the spin cycle because the load is unevenly distributed inside the drum. This commonly occurs when washing single large items like bed linen or bath towels. Try redistributing the load evenly, mixing different sized items, or running the cycle again—this is not a mechanical fault.

Guide coming soon
E36

Water drainage problem

Medium

The washing machine is unable to drain water from the tub, often causing the door to lock with water still inside. The most common causes are blockages in the drain filter, drain hose, or drain pump. Start by checking and cleaning the drain filter and inspecting the drain hose for kinks or obstructions.

Guide coming soon
E37

NTC temperature probe defective

Advanced

The NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) probe is a temperature sensor that monitors water temperature during the wash cycle. When defective, the machine cannot regulate temperature properly and stops operation. This typically requires replacement of the probe by a technician, though you can first try resetting the machine to rule out temporary sensor errors.

Guide coming soon
E38

Temperature probe short circuit

Advanced

The NTC temperature sensor (probe) has failed or developed a short circuit, preventing the washing machine from monitoring water temperature correctly. This is a component-level failure that typically requires professional replacement of the temperature probe. Check that the probe connector is not loose before calling for service.

Guide coming soon
E42

Door lock or latch malfunction

Medium

The door lock mechanism has failed or the latch is jammed, preventing the door from opening or closing properly. This is most commonly caused by a mechanical jam, worn latch, or faulty door lock solenoid. Try unplugging the machine for 5 minutes to reset the control board, then check if the door latch is physically obstructed or stuck.

Guide coming soon
E45

Drain pump impeller blockage or failure

Medium

The drain pump impeller is not spinning freely, preventing water from draining properly from the machine. This is usually caused by foreign objects (coins, buttons, debris) stuck in the pump or a faulty pump motor. Try accessing the drain pump filter to remove any blockages before considering pump replacement.

Guide coming soon
E47

Drainage or water pump fault

Medium

The washing machine cannot drain water properly due to a blockage or malfunction in the drain pump system. This is most commonly caused by debris, lint, or foreign objects stuck in the drain pump or hose. Check and clear the drain pump filter and inspect the drain hose for blockages as a first troubleshooting step.

Guide coming soon
E50

Motor failure or malfunction

Advanced

The E50 error indicates a problem with the washing machine's motor or motor control system. Common causes include a blocked or stuck drum, foreign objects obstructing movement, pump blockage (often from hair and lint), or motor control board failure. As a first troubleshooting step, try powering off the machine for a few minutes and restarting it; if the error persists, the drum should be manually checked for obstructions.

Guide coming soon
E60

Door lock or control board malfunction

Medium

The E60 error indicates a problem with the door lock assembly or the washing machine's control board. The door lock may be damaged, misaligned, or failing to engage properly, preventing the machine from operating. Try inspecting the door lock for visible damage or attempting a hard reset by unplugging the machine for several minutes.

Guide coming soon
E61

Door lock or communication fault

Medium

The E61 error indicates a problem with the door lock assembly or an electrical communication fault between the door lock and the control board. This prevents the machine from operating safely. Inspect the door lock mechanism for visible damage or obstructions, ensure the door closes fully, and check that the wire harness connectors to the door lock are properly seated.

Guide coming soon
E62

Control board and motor communication error

Advanced

This error indicates a communication failure between the washing machine's control board and the motor, preventing proper operation. The most common causes are loose wiring connections, a faulty motor, or a defective control board. Start by unplugging the washer for 5 minutes to reset the system, then check that all motor and control board connections are secure.

Guide coming soon
E63

Drainage issue or water level sensor fault

Medium

Error E63 on Siemens washing machines typically indicates either a blocked drain system or a faulty water level sensor. The most common cause is a clogged drain hose or filter preventing proper water drainage. Start by unplugging the machine and checking the drain hose for blockages, kinks, or damage, then inspect and clean the drain filter if accessible.

Guide coming soon
E64

Heating element or temperature sensor fault

Advanced

The washing machine's heating element has malfunctioned or the temperature sensor has failed, preventing the machine from heating water to the correct temperature. This is typically caused by an electrical fault in the heating element itself or a broken temperature sensor. DIY checks are limited and unsafe; professional inspection of the heating circuit and element replacement is usually required.

Guide coming soon
E65

Door latch or closure malfunction

Medium

The washing machine's door sensor has not registered that the door is properly closed and latched. This is typically caused by a faulty door catch, misaligned door, or defective door latch mechanism. Check that the door clicks shut firmly when closed; if not, inspect the door catch for damage or debris and ensure the door is properly aligned.

Guide coming soon
E66

Heater circuit fault

Advanced

The washing machine's heating element or heater relay circuit has failed, preventing the water from heating properly during wash cycles. This is typically caused by a faulty heating element, a defective heater relay on the control board, or damaged wiring and connectors. Check all wiring harnesses and connectors to the heater circuit first, as loose connections are sometimes the culprit.

Guide coming soon
E67

Incorrect module encoding or control board fault

Advanced

The E67 error indicates a firmware failure or control module encoding problem in the washing machine's control board. This is typically caused by a corrupted firmware or a faulty control module that cannot communicate properly with the machine's systems. A basic fix is to unplug the machine for 10 minutes to reset it, but if the error persists, the module may need reprogramming or replacement by a technician.

Guide coming soon
E68

Stuck button on control panel

Easy

The E68 error code indicates that one or more buttons on the washing machine's control panel are stuck or not functioning properly. This prevents the machine from operating normally as it cannot register button inputs correctly. Try gently wiggling each button on the control panel to free up any stuck mechanisms and restore proper function.

Guide coming soon
E69

Heating element or temperature sensor failure

Advanced

The washing machine's heating element or temperature sensor (NTC thermistor) has failed, preventing the water from heating during the wash cycle. This can also be caused by wiring or connection issues between the heating circuit and control board. Check that all connections to the heating element are secure; if the problem persists, the element or sensor likely needs replacement by a technician.

Guide coming soon
E90

Control board communication failure

Advanced

The E90 error indicates a communication problem between the user interface and the main control PCB (printed circuit board). This is typically caused by a faulty control board, loose connections, or wiring issues. A simple reset by unplugging the machine for 30 seconds may resolve the issue; if not, professional service is required.

Guide coming soon
E91

Child lock activated

Easy

The child lock feature on your Siemens washing machine is currently enabled, preventing normal operation. This is a safety feature designed to prevent accidental changes during a cycle. Simply deactivate the child lock using your machine's control panel to resume normal use.

Guide coming soon
E92

Water connection problem

Easy

The washing machine is unable to establish a proper water supply connection. This is typically caused by kinked inlet hoses, clogged filters, or loose water line connections. Check that both hot and cold water hoses are properly connected, not kinked, and that the water supply valves are fully open.

Guide coming soon
END

Normal cycle completion or unbalanced load detection

Easy

The END display message typically appears when the washing machine has completed its cycle normally—this is not a fault condition. In some cases, it may also indicate the machine has detected an unbalanced load and paused the cycle. If the machine is stuck on this display, try power cycling by turning off the breaker for a few moments to reset it.

Guide coming soon
F43

Motor carbon brushes worn out

Advanced

The F43 error indicates that the motor's carbon brushes have reached the end of their service life and need replacement. This is a common wear item in washing machine motors that degrades over time with normal use. While DIY replacement is possible with new spare parts, it requires careful disassembly and should be approached cautiously.

Guide coming soon
NO

No error code displayed or machine unresponsive

Medium

The washing machine is not displaying an error code or has stopped responding, often caused by a control panel malfunction, child lock activation, or power supply issue. Common causes include loose connections, burnt components on the control board, or accidentally activated child lock. Try hard resetting the machine by holding the power button for 3-5 seconds, or check if child lock is engaged by pressing and holding the start button until you hear a beep.

Guide coming soon

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