GE Washer - E42 Error Code
The washer detected excessive current draw from the drive motor.
Meaning
The washer detected excessive current draw from the drive motor.
The GE E42 error code indicates that the washer’s drive motor is drawing more current than expected. This may be caused by mechanical binding, overloaded drum, or a failing motor. GE washers monitor motor torque and current; if the current exceeds safe limits, E42 is triggered.
Symptoms
Causes
Step-by-Step Fixes
- Reduce load size.
- Inspect drum bearings.
- Test motor windings.
Safety Notes
- Disconnect power before servicing motor components.
Applicable Models
Show Models
- GE GFW front-load washers
Related Pages
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- GE Washer FAIL Code
- GE Washer HydroWave 1 Flash — Tub Taking Too Long to Stop
- GE Washer HydroWave 10 Flashes — No Communication With Control Board
- GE Washer HydroWave 2 Flashes — Belt Slipping
- GE Washer HydroWave 3 Flashes — Software Problem
- GE Washer HydroWave 4 Flashes — Mode Shifter Failure
- GE Washer HydroWave 5 Flashes — Motor Problem
- GE Washer HydroWave 6 Flashes — Motor Locked
- GE Washer HydroWave 7 Flashes — Lid Switch Stuck Closed
- GE Washer HydroWave 8 Flashes — Motor Overheated
- GE Washer HydroWave 9 Flashes — Brake Resistor Failed
- GE Washer LED Flash Code 1 — Lid Lock Will Not Unlock
- GE Washer LED Flash Code 2 — Lid Lock Will Not Lock
- GE Washer LED Flash Code 3 — Pressure Sensor Fault
- GE Washer LED Flash Code 4 — Drain Pump Fault
- GE Washer LED Flash Code 5 — Motor Fault
- GE Washer NOC Code
- GE Washer Sd Error Code
- GE Washer SL‑1 Status Light Code — Lid Lock Fault
- GE Washer SL‑10 Status Light Code — Fill Timeout
- GE Washer SL‑2 Status Light Code — Pressure Sensor Fault
- GE Washer SL‑3 Status Light Code — Drain Pump Fault
- GE Washer SL‑4 Status Light Code — Motor Fault
- GE Washer SL‑5 Status Light Code — Shifter Fault
- GE Washer SL‑6 Status Light Code — Suspension or Balance Fault
- GE Washer SL‑7 Status Light Code — Thermistor Fault
- GE Washer SL‑8 Status Light Code — Control Board Fault
- GE Washer SL‑9 Status Light Code — Water Valve Fault
- GE Washer SM‑1 — Enter Service Mode
- GE Washer SM‑2 — Error Code Retrieval
- GE Washer UE Error Code
- GE Washer UL Error Code
- GE Washer UPD Code
- GE Washer W1 Error Code
- GE Washer W2 Error Code
- GE Washer W3 Error Code
- GE Washer W4 Error Code
Model-Specific Notes
On GE UltraFresh models, E42 often appears when the motor begins to overheat under heavy loads.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only. Repairs involve electrical, mechanical, and water-related risks. Always follow manufacturer instructions and consider contacting a qualified technician for diagnosis or repair.