Tumble Dryer
E4
The E4 error code on a Beko tumble dryer signals a problem with the motor — specifically that it has overheated or stalled. It’s a moderately serious fault that will stop your dryer running, but in many cases you can resolve it yourself without calling an engineer.
What does this error mean?
The E4 code tells you the dryer’s control board has detected that the motor is not running correctly — it’s either drawing too much current, has overheated, or has stopped responding entirely. Beko dryers include a thermal cut-out to protect the motor from damage, and E4 is triggered when that protection kicks in. The drum may spin briefly then stop, or refuse to start at all.
Est. repair cost
£80–£200 professional repair (capacitor or motor); £10–£20 DIY drive belt replacement
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Power off the dryer at the wall and leave it for 30 minutes — if the motor overheated, this thermal reset may clear the fault and allow a normal restart.
Clean the lint filter thoroughly. Remove it, wash it under warm running water, and let it dry completely before refitting. A partially blocked filter is the most common cause of E4.
On condenser or heat pump models, locate and remove the condenser unit (usually behind a panel at the bottom front). Rinse it under the tap until the water runs clear, leave to dry, then refit it.
Reduce the load size. Beko recommends not exceeding the drum’s rated capacity — check your model’s manual for the exact kilogram limit. Overloading is a very common trigger.
Check the drive belt by manually turning the drum. If it spins with almost no resistance, the belt has likely snapped or come off the pulley. Replacement belts cost £10–£20 and can be fitted DIY with basic tools, using a model-specific YouTube guide.
If none of the above steps clear the E4 code, do not attempt to open the motor housing or electrical components — this is the point to call a qualified appliance engineer.
📞 When to call a professional
If the error returns after a thermal reset, cleaning the filters, and correcting the load size, the fault is likely a failed motor capacitor or a burnt-out motor — both of which require a qualified appliance engineer to diagnose and replace safely. When you call, tell the engineer the exact error code (E4), your Beko model number (printed inside the door frame), and whether the drum was moving at all when the fault appeared. This will help them arrive with the right parts.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional motor capacitor replacement typically costs £80–£120 all-in; a full motor replacement runs £130–£200 depending on the model. If your Beko dryer is under 5 years old, repair almost always makes financial sense. Over 8 years old with a failed motor, replacement is the more economical choice — a reliable new condenser dryer starts at around £250–£300 from UK retailers.