Washing Machine
E44
The E44 error code on an AEG washing machine signals a fault with the door lock mechanism or the control board’s detection of it — and while it sounds alarming, it’s often a straightforward fix a homeowner can tackle without calling an engineer.
What does this error mean?
E44 indicates that the washing machine’s control board is not receiving the correct signal from the door interlock (the locking mechanism that secures the door during a cycle). The machine detects either that the door is not locking properly, or that the signal confirming it is locked is failing to reach the PCB (main circuit board). As a safety measure, the machine refuses to run until it can confirm the door is securely closed.
Est. repair cost
£15–£35 DIY door interlock replacement; £80–£150 professional door lock repair; £150–£250 if PCB replacement is required
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Reset the machine: Switch the washing machine off at the wall socket, leave it unplugged for 5 minutes, then plug back in and run a short cycle. A temporary software glitch will clear with a full power reset.
Inspect the door seal and lock area: Open the door fully and check around the rubber seal and the lock catch for any trapped items (coins, clothing tags, underwire). Remove anything obstructing the lock mechanism.
Check the door latch and handle: Firmly push the door shut and listen for a distinct click. If the handle is loose, broken, or the door doesn’t engage cleanly, the latch or handle assembly needs replacing — parts cost £10–£25 and are straightforward to swap with a screwdriver.
Test the door interlock: With the machine unplugged, gently pull back the door seal to access the lock assembly (held by one or two screws). Disconnect the wiring plug and inspect for burnt marks, corrosion, or broken terminals. A replacement door interlock for AEG machines costs £15–£35 and is a common DIY repair.
Check the wiring harness connectors: While the door lock is accessible, trace the wires back and firmly reseat any connectors that feel loose. Do not cut or splice wires — if the harness is visibly damaged, this is a job for a qualified appliance engineer.
If none of the above resolves the fault, do not attempt to open the main PCB housing or probe live components — stop here and call a professional.
📞 When to call a professional
If replacing the door interlock and reseating connectors doesn’t clear the E44 code, the fault likely lies with the wiring harness or the PCB — both of which require a qualified appliance engineer to diagnose safely. When you call, tell them you have an E44 error code and that you’ve already ruled out the door lock itself, so they can bring the right parts. Look for an engineer who charges a fixed diagnostic fee (typically £60–£85 in the UK) rather than an open-ended hourly rate.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A door interlock replacement by a professional will typically cost £80–£150 all-in, making repair well worthwhile on any machine under 8 years old. If the fault is traced to the PCB, repair costs rise to £150–£250, at which point you should weigh this against the machine’s age — on a machine over 8–10 years old, replacement with a new AEG or equivalent mid-range model (£400–£600) is often the more economical long-term choice. For machines under 5 years old, always repair first.