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Error code reference

Fisher & Paykel Dishwasher Error Code A6

No spray arm detected

Fisher & Paykel codesFisher & Paykel dishwasher codes

No spray arm detected - the spray arm is not rotating or water is not reaching it.

First step from the service manual

Check if the spray arm is correctly located on the motor rotor and that the wash impeller is not loose on the rotor shaft.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What A6 means on a Fisher & Paykel dishwasher

The A6 error code on a Fisher & Paykel dishwasher indicates that the control system has not detected spray arm rotation during a wash cycle. The dishwasher monitors spray arm movement as a confirmation that water is being delivered at sufficient pressure and that mechanical components are functioning correctly. When the control cannot confirm rotation, it triggers A6 to prevent a cycle from completing without effective washing action.

The spray arm is driven by water pressure from the wash pump impeller, which sits on the motor rotor shaft. If the spray arm is not correctly seated on the motor rotor, or if the wash impeller has become loose on the rotor shaft, water pressure will not transfer efficiently to drive the arm. A loose impeller is a particularly common culprit because it can spin independently of the rotor, producing little to no water flow to the spray arm even while the motor runs normally.

Additional causes include physical obstructions blocking spray arm rotation, a clogged or damaged spray arm that prevents water from flowing through its jets, or debris lodged in the filter assembly restricting water supply to the pump. In some cases, the spray arm bearing or hub can wear or crack, preventing proper seating and consistent rotation. Diagnosing A6 begins with inspecting the mechanical connection between the spray arm, impeller, and rotor shaft before investigating water supply or pump output issues.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of A6

  1. 01

    Spray arm not seated on motor rotor

    Wiring / connection

    If the spray arm is not correctly located on the motor rotor, it will not receive the mechanical engagement needed to spin. Check that the arm is fully and properly pressed onto the rotor hub with no wobble or misalignment.

  2. 02

    Loose wash impeller on rotor shaft

    Part replacement

    The wash impeller can work loose from the rotor shaft over time, causing it to spin freely without generating water pressure. A loose impeller will produce little or no water flow to the spray arm even though the motor is running.

  3. 03

    Physical obstruction blocking spray arm rotation

    Wiring / connection

    Tall utensils, large cookware, or displaced dish rack components can physically block the spray arm from completing a full rotation. Remove the lower rack and manually spin the spray arm to check for obstructions.

  4. 04

    Clogged spray arm jets

    Wiring / connection

    Mineral deposits, food debris, or broken glass can block the spray arm nozzles, reducing water flow enough that the arm loses the pressure needed to rotate. Remove the spray arm and clear each jet with a toothpick or fine wire.

  5. 05

    Blocked filter assembly restricting pump water supply

    Wiring / connection

    A heavily clogged filter reduces the volume of water reaching the pump, which in turn lowers the pressure available to drive the spray arm. Inspect and clean the filter assembly at the base of the tub.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about A6

What does A6 mean on a Fisher & Paykel dishwasher?
The A6 code means the dishwasher did not detect spray arm rotation during the wash cycle. This indicates that water is either not reaching the spray arm, the arm is physically obstructed, or there is a mechanical issue with the spray arm seating or the wash impeller. The dishwasher halts the cycle to prevent incomplete washing.
How do I fix an A6 error on my Fisher & Paykel dishwasher?
Start by removing the lower rack and checking that the spray arm is correctly seated on the motor rotor with no wobble. Then confirm the wash impeller is tight on the rotor shaft and not spinning freely. Clear any obstructions that could block spray arm rotation, and clean the spray arm jets and filter assembly. If the impeller is confirmed loose or damaged, it will need to be replaced.
Is it safe to keep using my dishwasher when it shows an A6 error?
It is not recommended to run cycles while the A6 error is active. The dishwasher is flagging that the spray arm is not functioning, which means dishes will not be properly cleaned or sanitized. Continuing to run cycles without resolving the issue wastes water and energy without effective results.
Will resetting my Fisher & Paykel dishwasher clear the A6 error?
A reset may clear the error code temporarily, but if the underlying cause is not resolved, the A6 code will return once the next wash cycle detects the same problem. A reset is useful for confirming whether the fault was a one-time event, but it is not a substitute for inspecting and correcting the spray arm, impeller, and rotor connection.
How much does it cost to repair an A6 error on a Fisher & Paykel dishwasher?
If the fix involves only cleaning the spray arm jets, clearing obstructions, or reseating the spray arm, there may be no parts cost at all. If the wash impeller needs replacement, parts typically range from $15 to $50 depending on the model, with additional labor costs if a technician is involved. A full service call from a qualified appliance repair technician generally runs between $100 and $200 depending on your location and the extent of the repair.

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