Washing Machine
E43
The E43 error code on an Electrolux washing machine points to a fault with the door lock (triac) circuit — specifically, the control board is not receiving confirmation that the door has locked correctly. It’s a moderately serious fault that will prevent your machine from starting or completing a cycle.
What does this error mean?
E43 indicates a failure in the triac that controls the door interlock — the electronic switch on the main PCB responsible for activating and confirming the door lock. When the machine attempts to lock the door at the start of a cycle, the control board sends a signal and expects a confirmation back; E43 means that confirmation never arrives. This can be a fault in the door lock assembly itself, the wiring between it and the PCB, or the PCB triac component.
Est. repair cost
£20–£45 DIY door lock part; £60–£110 professional door lock repair; £120–£200 for PCB repair or replacement including labour
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Reset the machine: Switch it off at the wall, leave it unplugged for 5 minutes, then power back on and try a new cycle. A one-off glitch can sometimes trigger E43.
Inspect the door catch: Open and close the door firmly and check that the striker pin (the plastic peg on the door) is intact and clicks smoothly into the lock. If it’s broken or bent, a replacement striker is £5–£15 and clips in without tools.
Check for obstructions: Look inside the door lock slot for coins, underwire, or debris that could stop the lock from engaging. Clear any blockage with tweezers — do not use metal tools near the electrical contacts.
Examine the door seal and hinge: A sagging door caused by a worn hinge can misalign the striker with the lock, preventing proper engagement. Lift the door slightly while closing — if E43 disappears, the hinge or hinge bolt needs tightening or replacing.
Test or replace the door interlock: If comfortable doing so, unplug the machine and access the door lock from inside the door seal (three screws). Disconnect the wiring plug and use a multimeter to test for continuity across the lock terminals. A failed lock reads open circuit — a genuine Electrolux interlock costs £20–£45 and is a straightforward DIY replacement.
Stop here if the lock tests fine: A passing door lock combined with a persistent E43 points to a PCB triac fault — this requires a professional, as PCB repair or replacement involves live electrical components.
📞 When to call a professional
If replacing the door interlock doesn’t clear the E43 code, the fault is almost certainly a failed triac on the main PCB — do not attempt to repair or replace the PCB yourself, as this involves working near high-voltage components. Call a Domestic & General approved engineer or an independent appliance repair specialist and tell them: ‘My Electrolux washing machine is showing error code E43 and the door lock has already been tested or replaced.’ This gives them a clear starting point and avoids paying for unnecessary diagnostics.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A door lock replacement is £60–£110 all-in with a callout (or £20–£45 DIY). A PCB repair or replacement typically costs £120–£200 with labour, which is harder to justify on a machine over 8 years old. If your machine is under 7 years old and otherwise reliable, repair is almost always the better value; beyond 8–10 years, weigh the repair cost against a new mid-range model at £350–£550.