Electrolux Dishwasher Error Code i42

The i42 code means the dishwasher failed its pressure sensor calibration. During startup, the machine samples the water level sensor while the sump is empty to set a baseline reference point. If that signal is too noisy or outside the acceptable range, the control board logs i42 and halts operation to prevent water level errors during the wash cycle.

It is not recommended to continue running the dishwasher with an active i42 fault. Because the error means the water level sensor cannot be calibrated correctly, the machine may be unable to accurately detect how much water is in the tub. This could potentially lead to overfill or underfill conditions during a wash cycle.

Repair costs depend on the failed component. If only the wire harness needs reseating or cleaning, the fix can cost little to nothing beyond your time. A replacement pressure sensor typically runs in the range of $20 to $60 for the part, while a new PCB can range from $100 to $250 or more. Adding professional labor generally brings the total repair estimate to somewhere between $100 and $350 depending on the diagnosis.

Some causes of i42 are DIY-friendly, particularly inspecting and reseating the sensor wire harness connections, which requires no special tools. Clearing debris from the pressure sensor port is also straightforward. However, replacing the pressure sensor or PCB involves working with electrical components and some disassembly, so those repairs are better suited to technicians with appliance repair experience.

A reset may temporarily clear the i42 code, but if the underlying cause is still present, the error will return when the machine attempts calibration again at the next startup. A lasting fix requires diagnosing and correcting the root cause, whether that is a wiring connection, the sensor, or another component.