E42 Serious Moderate DIY

Frigidaire Washer E42 — Door lock won't unlock

Frigidaire Washer · Error code E42

What E42 Means

The control sent the unlock command but the door lock didn't release. Door stays locked, often after a cycle finishes.

Symptoms

  • Door stuck closed after cycle
  • Lock light stays on
  • Clicking from lock but no release

Common Causes

1
Failed PTC element / wax motor in lock

PTC fails to cool down or wax motor sticks extended.

2
Mechanical jam in latch

Plastic lock parts warp or break with age.

3
Control board not commanding unlock

Software hang — power cycle often resolves.

4
Water still in tub

Some models won't unlock with water above the boot.

How to Fix It

  1. Press Pause/Cancel and wait 2 minutes; the lock often releases on the delay.
  2. Unplug for 5 minutes to reset the control.
  3. Verify the tub is empty; if not, fix the drain issue first.
  4. Pull the manual release tang underneath the door lock (small plastic loop behind the kick panel).
  5. Replace the door lock assembly if it fails to unlock electrically.

Parts You May Need

If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Common replacement Frigidaire front-load door lock View on Amazon→

More Frigidaire Washer Codes

E10 E10 — Water fill problem E11 E11 — Fill time too long E13 E13 — Water leak or air leak in pressure system E20 E20 — Drain pump won't pump out E21 E21 — Slow drain / water remains in tub E23 E23 — Drain pump relay fault on control board

All Frigidaire codes → All washer codes →

Verified against manufacturer documentation: frigidaire.com

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician.