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Error code reference

Fisher & Paykel Washer Error Code #136

Motor stall

Fisher & Paykel codesFisher & Paykel washer codes

Motor stall — the Motor Controller Module has been unable to start the motor.

First step from the service manual

Check for faulty motor harness, faulty or jammed motor, seized bearings or seals, faulty Motor Controller Module, faulty Rotor Position Sensor or harness.

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

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  • 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
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What #136 means on a Fisher & Paykel washer

Error code #136 on a Fisher & Paykel washer indicates a motor stall condition. This means the Motor Controller Module (MCM) attempted to start the drive motor but was unable to get it spinning. The MCM continuously monitors motor feedback signals during startup and operation. When it detects that the motor has failed to reach the expected rotational state within the required time or has stopped unexpectedly mid-cycle, it throws this fault and halts the wash program to prevent damage to internal components.

The motor system in these machines relies on a Rotor Position Sensor (RPS) to give the MCM real-time feedback about the motor's position and movement. If the RPS or its harness is faulty, the MCM may not receive the signal it needs to confirm motor rotation, triggering a false stall fault even if the motor itself is mechanically sound. Similarly, a damaged or loose motor harness can interrupt power delivery or signal communication between the MCM and the motor, producing the same result.

Physical causes are also common. Seized bearings or worn seals can create enough mechanical resistance to prevent the motor from turning under load. A foreign object lodged in the drum or pump can jam the motor indirectly. In some cases, the Motor Controller Module itself is the failed component, either unable to deliver the correct drive signals or unable to interpret motor feedback correctly. Diagnosing this code requires systematically checking the harness connections, motor resistance, rotor position sensor output, and bearing condition before condemning the MCM.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of #136

  1. 01

    Seized drum bearings or worn seals

    Part replacement

    Worn or seized drum bearings create excessive mechanical resistance that prevents the motor from starting under load. You may notice grinding noise, drum stiffness when rotated by hand, or water leaking from the rear of the machine before the fault appears.

  2. 02

    Faulty or disconnected motor harness

    Wiring / connection

    A damaged, pinched, or loose wiring harness between the Motor Controller Module and the drive motor can interrupt power or signal communication. Inspect the harness for burnt wires, corrosion, or connectors that have pulled partially free.

  3. 03

    Faulty Rotor Position Sensor or RPS harness

    Part replacement

    The Rotor Position Sensor provides the MCM with feedback about motor movement. If the sensor or its wiring is faulty, the controller cannot confirm rotation and will log a stall fault. Check the sensor connector and inspect the harness for damage.

  4. 04

    Jammed or failed drive motor

    Part replacement

    The motor itself may have an internal failure or may be jammed by a foreign object lodged in the drum or drive path. Manually check for drum obstructions and test the motor windings for correct resistance values.

  5. 05

    Faulty Motor Controller Module

    Part replacement

    If the harness, motor, bearings, and Rotor Position Sensor all check out correctly, the Motor Controller Module may be unable to generate proper drive signals or interpret motor feedback. This is typically diagnosed by exclusion after all other components have been tested.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about #136

What does #136 mean on a Fisher & Paykel washer?
Error code #136 means the Motor Controller Module attempted to start the drive motor but the motor failed to start or stalled. The washer halts the cycle automatically to prevent damage. The fault can originate from the motor itself, its wiring harness, the Rotor Position Sensor, seized bearings, or the Motor Controller Module.
Can I fix error code #136 myself on a Fisher & Paykel washer?
Some causes of this error are DIY-accessible. You can check for loose harness connectors, inspect wiring for visible damage, and manually rotate the drum to feel for binding or seized bearings. However, replacing the motor, Motor Controller Module, or drum bearings typically requires disassembly skills and some technical knowledge, so those repairs may be better left to a qualified technician.
Is it safe to keep using my Fisher & Paykel washer when error #136 appears?
No, you should not continue using the washer while this error is active. The machine has detected that the motor is not functioning correctly, and running it in this state risks damaging the motor, the Motor Controller Module, or other drivetrain components. Stop using the appliance until the fault has been diagnosed and resolved.
Will resetting my Fisher & Paykel washer clear error code #136?
A reset may temporarily clear the fault display, but if the underlying problem has not been fixed, the error will return as soon as the washer attempts to start the motor again. Resetting without repairing the root cause is not a solution. Use a reset only after completing the repair to confirm the fault has been resolved.
How much does it cost to repair error code #136 on a Fisher & Paykel washer?
Repair costs vary depending on the failed component. A wiring harness repair or sensor replacement is typically at the lower end of the cost range, while drum bearing replacement or a new Motor Controller Module will cost significantly more, especially when labor is included. Overall repair costs can range from around $100 to $450 or more depending on the specific fault and your location.

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