What FE actually means
The machine has spotted that one of its own moving parts hasn't done what it was told — either the valve that switches water between the upper and lower spray arms, or the mechanism that pops the door open at the end of the cycle.
The control board watches these parts and expects a response within a set time. On the RDW6012D22 the FE display with all the lights flashing is used for two separate checks: the diverter valve reading as an open circuit when it should be running, and the automatic door release failing to actually open the door when it is triggered. Rangemaster's own instruction is to switch the dishwasher off and back on; if FE clears, it was a one-off reading, and if it comes straight back the fault is real.
What FE looks like on a Rangemaster dishwasher
Most people find this page having searched for what the machine is doing rather than the code itself. On a Rangemaster dishwasher, FE usually shows up as one or more of these:
- Dishwasher door won't open
- Door won't lock or click shut
- Door lock light flashing
- Door stuck shut with the load inside
- Won't start even with the door closed
- Tub not turning
- Won't spin
- Hums or buzzes but nothing moves
Recognise any of those? That is this fault, and the rest of this page explains what causes it and what you can check yourself.
What usually causes it
- The diverter valve motor or its wiring has failed, so the board sees no circuit
- The automatic door-opening mechanism is jammed or has broken
- Something in front of the door stopping it from swinging open when released
- A loose plug or damaged connection between the board and the valve or door motor
- A control board fault falsely reporting the part as dead
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 dishwasher off at the wall for a minute, switch it back on and start a cycle — the manufacturer treats this as the first step, and a code that clears and stays gone was a glitch
- Make sure nothing is leaning against or resting in front of the door, and that the worktop trim or a kitchen mat isn't fouling it, so the door can open freely at the end of the cycle
- Check the door closes and latches cleanly without being forced
Which Rangemaster models show FE
FE means the same thing on this model. If yours is not listed, the explanation above still applies — the code is set by the control board, not the model number.
RDW6012D22
Common questions about Rangemaster FE
What does FE mean on a Rangemaster dishwasher?
The machine has spotted that one of its own moving parts hasn't done what it was told — either the valve that switches water between the upper and lower spray arms, or the mechanism that pops the door open at the end of the cycle. The control board watches these parts and expects a response within a set time. On the RDW6012D22 the FE display with all the lights flashing is used for two separate checks: the diverter valve reading as an open circuit when it should be running, and the automatic door release failing to actually open the door when it is triggered. Rangemaster's own instruction is to switch the dishwasher off and back on; if FE clears, it was a one-off reading, and if it comes straight back the fault is real.
Can I fix Rangemaster FE myself?
There are 3 checks you can safely do yourself first.
- Turn the dishwasher off at the wall for a minute, switch it back on and start a cycle — the manufacturer treats this as the first step, and a code that clears and stays gone was a glitch.
- Make sure nothing is leaning against or resting in front of the door, and that the worktop trim or a kitchen mat isn't fouling it, so the door can open freely at the end of the cycle.
- Check the door closes and latches cleanly without being forced.
This one usually needs an engineer once you have tried them.
How much does it cost to repair Rangemaster FE?
£66 including VAT for an engineer to come out and diagnose it, or £84 in total including VAT if it is put right on the visit and no parts are needed. Any parts needed are quoted on site before we fit them — you decide. Every repair carries a 90-day workmanship guarantee.
Tried the checks and it's still showing FE?
This one usually needs an engineer once you have tried the checks above. Then it wants someone who can open it up.
What it costs, before you call: the price is the same whatever the fault turns out to be — £66 including VAT for an engineer to come out and diagnose it, or £84 in total including VAT if it is put right on the visit and no parts are needed. Any parts needed are quoted on site before we fit them — you decide. Every repair carries a 90-day workmanship guarantee.
Our own engineers, not a call centre. We cover Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Leicestershire — most dishwasher faults are seen same day or next day.
Call 0115 648 0929 Book online — postcode and number is all we need
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 Rangemaster dishwasher codes
- Rangemaster SE — The dishwasher's control board has checked its own stored se…
- Rangemaster F00 — The dishwasher has detected too much water inside it and has…
- Rangemaster F01 — The dishwasher has decided there is too much water inside it…
- Rangemaster F02 — The dishwasher can't get the dirty water out, so it has halt…
- Rangemaster F03 — The dishwasher has decided water is still coming in when it …
- Rangemaster F04 — The dishwasher isn't seeing water flowing in when it tries t…
- Rangemaster F05 — The dishwasher isn't getting enough water in, so it has halt…
- Rangemaster F06 — The dishwasher has shut the cycle down because the water tem…
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