Error Code E57

Error Code E57 on Your AEG, Electrolux, or Privileg Washing Machine

Is your washing machine displaying error code E57? This guide is here to help you understand and troubleshoot the problem. This error code points to an issue with the power supply to the motor, specifically related to the motor control board (inverter) or the wiring that connects it to the motor.

Follow these systematic steps to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue.

1. Disconnect Power: Before performing any checks, your safety is the top priority. Unplug the washing machine completely from the wall socket. This crucial first step prevents any risk of electric shock while you are inspecting the internal components. It’s good practice to wait a minute or two after unplugging to allow any residual electrical charge in the capacitors to dissipate.

2. Check Wiring: The connection between the motor and the control board is vital. Any disruption here can trigger the E57 error.

   • Visually Inspect Cables: Carefully examine the bundle of wires (the wiring harness) that runs from the main control board to the motor at the bottom of the machine. Look for any clear signs of damage, such as frayed insulation, wires that have been pinched or cut, or scorch marks indicating a short circuit. Also, check the plastic connector plugs at both the motor end and the control board end. Ensure they are securely clicked into place and that no pins are bent or corroded.
   • Perform a Continuity Test with a Multimeter: If a visual inspection reveals no obvious damage, the fault could be an internal break in a wire. To confirm the integrity of the cables, you can use a multimeter set to the continuity or resistance (Ω) setting. Disconnect the wiring harness from both the motor and the control board. Touch the multimeter probes to the corresponding pins at each end of a single wire. A successful test will result in a beep or a reading close to zero ohms, indicating the wire is intact. Test each wire in the harness this way. If you get no reading (infinite resistance), that specific wire is broken and the harness needs to be replaced.

3. Inspect Motor Control: The motor control, also known as an inverter board, is responsible for regulating the speed and power delivered to the motor. A fault on this board is a common cause of the E57 error.

   • Locate and Examine the Board: The motor control is typically a small circuit board located near the motor. Carefully inspect its surface for any visible signs of failure. Look for burn marks, blackened spots on components, or capacitors that appear swollen or are leaking fluid. A distinct smell of burnt electronics is also a clear indicator of a damaged board.
   • Replace if Damaged: If you find any conclusive signs of physical damage on the motor control board, it has failed and must be replaced. Consult your appliance’s service manual to find the correct part number and follow the instructions for replacement.

4. Test Motor (If Possible): This is an advanced diagnostic step that should only be attempted if you have experience with electrical appliance repair.

   • Direct Power Test: It is possible to test the motor directly to rule it out as the source of the problem. This involves using a separate power source and knowledge of the motor’s specific wiring diagram to see if it operates independently of the machine’s control boards. A motor that fails to run, sparks, or makes loud grinding noises during a direct test is faulty.
   • Motor Replacement: A confirmed faulty motor will need to be replaced by a qualified individual.

5. Check Control Board: If the motor, wiring, and motor control board all appear to be in working order, the issue may lie with the main control board (the machine’s “brain”). A defective component on this board may be failing to send the correct signals to the motor control, thus triggering the error code. Visually inspecting this board for burn marks is a good first step, but diagnosing specific component failures often requires specialized equipment.

6. Reset the Machine: After performing your checks and re-securing all connections, you can attempt to clear the error from the machine’s memory.

   • Restore Power: Plug the washing machine back into the power outlet.
   • Perform a System Reset: The method for resetting the machine can vary by model. It often involves pressing and holding a combination of buttons (such as the “Start/Pause” and another program button simultaneously). Refer to your user manual for the precise reset procedure specific to your appliance. This will clear the logged error code and allow the machine to attempt a new cycle.

When to Call a Technician?

If error code E57 continues to appear after following these steps, or if at any point you feel unsure or unequipped to proceed safely, it is time to contact a qualified appliance repair technician. Electrical repairs can be complex and dangerous if not performed correctly. A technician has the diagnostic tools, experience, and access to genuine replacement parts to accurately identify the failed component and safely complete the repair.