What E42 actually means
The door lock has failed \u2014 the machine either can't lock the door to start, or can't release it when the cycle asks it to open.
The control board fires the door lock and then waits for confirmation that it has latched or released. On E42 that confirmation never arrives \u2014 typically the door stays locked when the machine wants to open it at the end of the cycle. The machine pauses the programme rather than carrying on, and this particular alarm won't clear by switching off at the wall; it has to be cleared with Start/Pause or by resetting the programme.
What usually causes it
- Worn or seized door interlock \u2014 the most common finding by a distance
- Door not quite pulling up to the catch, so the lock never confirms closed
- Sagging hinges or a distorted door seal holding the door slightly proud
- Wiring or connector fault between the control board and the lock
- Control board output driving the lock at fault (less common)
What you can safely check yourself
Work through these in order. Anything beyond this — panels off, testing parts, anything to do with the wiring — is an engineer's job, and not one to attempt with the machine plugged in.
- Wait a couple of minutes \u2014 on the older type of lock the machine can take up to about 45 seconds to release cold, and longer after a hot wash, so don't assume it's stuck straight away
- Press Start/Pause to clear the pause, or cancel and reset the programme; note that turning it off at the socket won't reset this one
- Check nothing is trapped in the door \u2014 a sleeve or a corner of a duvet stops it latching properly
- Close the door firmly and evenly rather than pushing it at the handle edge, then try the cycle again
When to call someone
This one usually needs an engineer once you have tried the checks above. We cover Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Leicestershire, and it's £66 including VAT for an engineer to come out and diagnose it — £84 in total if it's repaired on the visit with no parts needed. Any parts needed are quoted on site before we fit them — you decide. Every repair carries a 90-day workmanship guarantee.
Outside our area? The explanation above still stands — take it to a local engineer and tell them the code. Knowing it saves them time and you money.
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