Washing Machine
E45
The E45 error code on an Electrolux washing machine points to a fault with the triac or relay on the main control board — specifically the component that controls the door lock (interlock). It’s a moderately serious fault that will stop your machine completing a cycle, but there are a few checks worth doing before calling an engineer.
What does this error mean?
The E45 code means the machine’s control board has detected a problem with the triac — a small electronic switching component — responsible for activating the door lock mechanism. In plain terms, the board is either failing to send the correct signal to lock the door, or it’s receiving feedback that the lock isn’t responding as expected. Until the fault is resolved, the machine will refuse to run as a safety precaution.
Est. repair cost
£15–£35 DIY door lock replacement; £80–£160 professional repair (door lock or triac fault); £150–£250+ if full PCB replacement is needed
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Reset the machine: Switch the washing machine off at the plug, wait 10 minutes, then power it back on and start a fresh cycle. A power surge can trigger a false E45 — a reset clears this.
Check the door closes firmly: Open and firmly close the door, ensuring it clicks shut. A door not fully latched can confuse the interlock sensor and trigger the fault.
Inspect the door seal and latch for visible damage: Look for anything preventing the door from closing fully — torn rubber seal, broken plastic latch, or foreign objects caught in the door. Replace a broken latch (approx. £10–£20 part, DIY-friendly).
Check the wiring at the door lock: Unplug the machine. Carefully pull the door seal back at the top to access the door lock connector. Check the wiring plug is firmly seated and look for signs of burning, corrosion, or broken wires. Reseat any loose connector.
Test the door interlock with a multimeter (if confident): With the machine unplugged, disconnect the door lock and test for continuity across its terminals. No continuity means the lock has failed and needs replacing (approx. £15–£35 part). This is a DIY-safe repair if you are comfortable with basic electrics.
Stop here if the door lock tests fine: If the lock and wiring are both sound, the fault is almost certainly the main PCB triac — do not attempt to repair the board yourself. Call a qualified appliance engineer.
📞 When to call a professional
If the reset didn’t clear the fault and the door lock and wiring appear intact, the main control board is the likely culprit. Tell the engineer: ‘My Electrolux washing machine is showing error code E45 — I’ve checked the door lock and wiring and they appear fine, so I suspect a PCB triac fault.’ PCB repair or replacement requires specialist tools and should not be attempted by a non-electrician.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for an E45 fault typically costs £80–£160 in the UK, covering diagnosis, a new door lock or PCB triac repair. If your machine is over 8 years old and the PCB needs full replacement (£120–£200+ in parts alone), replacement often makes more financial sense — a reliable new mid-range washing machine starts at around £350–£450. For machines under 5 years old, repair is almost always worth it.