What E87 actually means
This one isn't really a customer fault code — it's a result thrown up when the machine's automatic detergent/water routing check fails, usually during installation testing.
Grundig's own service notes are clear that E87 is not meant to appear in normal use; it comes out of a service-mode test of the MFF filter in the detergent drawer, where the machine watches whether water actually reaches the filter. If water never gets there — for example because the diverter valve isn't operating — the test ends with E87. So on a machine in a customer's home, seeing it points to water not being routed to the drawer correctly rather than anything you've done wrong.
What usually causes it
- Diverter valve not operating, so water never reaches the MFF filter in the drawer
- The MFF flow hole in the detergent drawer blocked or gummed up with detergent residue
- Test carried out at installation without the drawer hole properly blocked, giving a false E87
- Wiring or control fault on the valve circuit
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.
- Turn the machine off at the wall for a minute, then switch back on and see whether the code returns
- Pull the detergent drawer right out and rinse it under the tap, clearing any set detergent or softener sludge from the compartments and flow holes
- Check the inlet tap is fully open and the fill hose isn't kinked behind the machine
- Run a short wash and watch whether water visibly flushes through the drawer
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.
Other Grundig washing machine codes
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