Frigidaire · Washer Serious

E57 — High motor current

Motor control unit is reading abnormally high current draw from the drive motor. Often indicates a mechanical bind or shorted winding.

Keep using it?
Limited use only
DIY difficulty
Hard
Verified against
frigidaire.com ↗

How to fix it

  1. Stop using the washer if you smell burning.
  2. Manually rotate the drum — feels rough/notchy if bearings are bad.
  3. Inspect between drum and tub with a flashlight for foreign objects.
  4. Measure motor winding resistance and to-ground continuity.
  5. Replace the motor or MCU as test results indicate.
  6. If bearings are bad, repair cost often exceeds machine value.

Why it happens

Typical signs: No spin · Burning smell · Breaker trips · E57 immediately on spin attempt

  • Worn drum bearings Failed rear tub bearings make the drum hard to spin.
  • Shorted motor winding Insulation breakdown in the stator.
  • Failed MCU power stage Shorted IGBT misreads current.
  • Foreign object jamming drum Coin or wire wedged between drum and outer tub.

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.

  • Frigidaire washer drive motor Common replacement
    Amazon →
  • Frigidaire tub bearing kit Common replacement
    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 →

Frequently asked questions

What does the E57 code mean on a Frigidaire washer?

Motor control unit is reading abnormally high current draw from the drive motor. Often indicates a mechanical bind or shorted winding.

What causes the E57 code on a Frigidaire washer?

Worn drum bearings: Failed rear tub bearings make the drum hard to spin. Shorted motor winding: Insulation breakdown in the stator. Failed MCU power stage: Shorted IGBT misreads current.

Is it safe to keep using a Frigidaire washer with a E57 error?

Limited use only. This is rated a serious-severity fault.

How do I fix E57 on a Frigidaire washer?

Stop using the washer if you smell burning. Manually rotate the drum — feels rough/notchy if bearings are bad. Inspect between drum and tub with a flashlight for foreign objects.

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician. Verified against manufacturer documentation: frigidaire.com.