Crosley Washer Error Code 21

Error code 21 means the machine control board has detected a conflict in the door lock signals. The door sense switch is reading as open while the door locked switch is reading as locked at the same time. This contradiction is not possible under normal operation, so the washer stops to prevent an unsafe cycle. The door lock assembly or its wiring circuit is the most likely source of the fault.

No, you should not attempt to operate the washer while error code 21 is active. The control board cannot confirm that the door is properly secured, which creates a risk of the door opening during a spin cycle. The washer is designed to halt operation when this conflict is detected, and bypassing that protection is not recommended.

Repair costs depend on which component has failed. A replacement door lock assembly typically ranges from $30 to $90 for the part alone. If the machine control board requires replacement, parts costs are generally higher, often ranging from $100 to $200 or more. Adding professional labor can bring the total repair cost to anywhere from $150 to $350 depending on the technician and the specific fault found.

Some causes of error code 21, such as loose connector terminals or a visibly damaged wire, can be addressed by a knowledgeable DIYer with basic electrical skills. However, replacing the door lock assembly or diagnosing the machine control board requires comfort working with appliance wiring and components. The recommended starting point is the Door Lock Test procedure, which helps isolate whether the fault is in the lock assembly, the wiring, or the control board.

A reset may temporarily clear the display, but the error code will return if the underlying fault in the door lock circuit has not been repaired. Resetting without fixing the root cause does not address the failed or conflicting switch signals. A proper repair requires diagnosing and correcting the door lock assembly, wiring, or control board as indicated by the Door Lock Test.