mypros+
Error code reference

Fisher & Paykel Washer Dishwasher Oven Error Code 43

Out of balance switch fault

Fisher & Paykel codesFisher & Paykel washer dishwasher oven codes

Out of balance switch fault

MyPros+ Max

Get the full diagnostic procedure for 43.

  • Step-by-step tests with expected resistance, voltage, and continuity values
  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
  • Verified part numbers when replacement is required
Get the full procedure

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass

What 43 means on a Fisher & Paykel washer dishwasher oven

Error code 43 on a Fisher & Paykel washer indicates an out of balance switch fault. This switch is a mechanical or electromechanical sensor designed to detect when the drum or load has shifted to a point that could cause excessive vibration or mechanical stress during the spin cycle. When the control board receives a signal from this switch indicating an imbalance condition, or when it detects an unexpected or continuous signal from the switch circuit, it triggers error code 43 and typically halts the spin cycle to prevent damage to internal components.

The out of balance switch itself is usually positioned near the suspension system of the drum assembly. It may be a contact-type switch that trips physically when the drum displaces beyond a set threshold, or it may be integrated into the motor or suspension monitoring circuit. A fault can arise from the switch being stuck in the tripped position, a wiring harness issue such as a broken or shorted wire leading to the switch, or a faulty switch that no longer returns accurate feedback to the control board.

Actual load distribution inside the drum is also a common contributing factor. Heavy or bulky items like blankets or towels can shift during the cycle and physically trigger the switch repeatedly, causing the machine to log this fault. In these cases the fault may clear once the load is redistributed. However, if the error persists across multiple loads, the switch itself, its wiring, or the suspension components holding the drum in proper alignment should be inspected closely.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 43

  1. 01

    Unbalanced laundry load

    Wiring / connection

    Heavy or bulky items can clump on one side of the drum during a spin cycle, physically triggering the out of balance switch. Open the door, redistribute the load evenly, and restart the cycle to see if the error clears.

  2. 02

    Faulty out of balance switch

    Part replacement

    The switch itself may be stuck in a tripped position or may have failed internally, causing it to send a constant fault signal to the control board regardless of actual drum balance. Replacing the switch is typically required in this scenario.

  3. 03

    Wiring harness fault

    Part replacement

    A broken, corroded, or shorted wire in the harness connecting the out of balance switch to the control board can produce a false fault signal. Inspect the harness for visible damage, loose connectors, or chafing near moving components.

  4. 04

    Worn or damaged suspension components

    Part replacement

    If the drum suspension rods, springs, or dampers have deteriorated, the drum may shift excessively during spin and repeatedly trigger the switch even with a properly sized load. Inspect all suspension components for wear, breakage, or loss of tension.

  5. 05

    Control board fault

    Part replacement

    In less common cases, the main control board may misinterpret or fail to correctly process the signal from the out of balance switch circuit, logging error 43 even when the switch and wiring are in good condition. This is typically diagnosed after all other components have been ruled out.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 43

What does 43 mean on a Fisher & Paykel washer, dishwasher, oven?
Error code 43 on a Fisher & Paykel washer points to an out of balance switch fault. This means the machine has either detected that the drum load is dangerously unbalanced, or that the switch responsible for monitoring balance has malfunctioned. The washer will typically stop the spin cycle to prevent mechanical damage until the issue is resolved.
Can I fix error code 43 on my Fisher & Paykel washer myself?
If the cause is simply an uneven load, you can fix it yourself by opening the drum, redistributing the laundry evenly, and restarting the cycle. If the error persists, further diagnosis involving the out of balance switch, its wiring harness, and the suspension system is needed, which may require a technician depending on your comfort level with appliance repair.
Is it safe to keep using my washer with error code 43?
It is not advisable to continue running the washer while error code 43 is active. An out of balance condition or a faulty balance switch can allow the drum to spin with excessive vibration, which may damage internal components such as the bearings, suspension, or drum shaft over time. Addressing the error before running further cycles is the safer approach.
Will resetting my Fisher & Paykel washer clear error code 43?
A reset may temporarily clear the error if it was triggered by a one-time load imbalance, but it will not fix an underlying component fault. If the out of balance switch, its wiring, or the suspension system has actually failed, the error code 43 will return once the machine runs another spin cycle. A reset is a useful first step but should not be treated as a repair.
How much does it cost to repair error code 43 on a Fisher & Paykel washer?
Repair costs depend on the root cause. Replacing an out of balance switch is generally an affordable repair, with parts and labor typically ranging from around $80 to $200 depending on your region and service provider. If the suspension components or control board need replacement, costs can range higher, from roughly $150 to $400 or more. Getting a diagnostic quote from a qualified technician is the best way to get an accurate estimate.

Related Fisher & Paykel washer dishwasher oven codes

All Fisher & Paykel washer dishwasher oven codes
View all 17 Fisher & Paykel washer dishwasher oven codes

78,000+ service manuals · 160,000+ error codes · 55+ brands

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass