Fisher & Paykel Washer Error Code #40

Error code #40 on a Fisher & Paykel washer is a basket disengage fault. It means the floating wash basket has not re-engaged into its normal position, even though the pressure sensor is reporting the tub is empty. The machine stops to prevent mechanical damage. The most common starting points for diagnosis are the clutch assembly and the pressure tube.

A power reset may temporarily clear the display, but if the underlying fault is not resolved the error will return during the next cycle. The basket must be able to physically re-engage and the pressure tube must be unobstructed for the machine to complete a cycle without retriggering the fault. Resetting without diagnosing the root cause is not a lasting fix.

Repair costs vary depending on the cause. If the fix is simply clearing a blocked pressure tube or removing a foreign object, costs may be minimal. Clutch assembly replacement, including parts and labor, typically falls in the range of $150 to $350 depending on your location and the technician's rates. Pressure sensor replacement is generally less expensive than clutch work.

Some causes of this error are DIY-friendly. Checking the pressure tube for kinks or blockages and inspecting around the basket for foreign objects can be done without special tools. However, replacing the clutch assembly or pressure sensor requires more mechanical confidence and access to the correct replacement parts. Always disconnect power to the machine before opening it up.

No, you should not continue running the washer while this error is active. The fault indicates the basket is not properly seated, and running the machine in this state risks mechanical damage to the clutch, basket, bearings, or other internal components. Stop use and diagnose the fault before running another cycle.