Fisher & Paykel Washer Error Code #43

Error code #43 means the out of balance switch is being read as permanently activated by the control system, or the wiring harness connected to it has been disconnected. This switch is a safety component that monitors drum load balance during spin cycles. The fault prevents the machine from operating normally until the switch or its wiring is inspected and repaired.

A reset may temporarily clear the code from the display, but it will return immediately if the underlying fault is still present. Because the control board reads the out of balance switch as continuously activated, the error will reappear as soon as the machine runs through its diagnostic checks. The switch and harness must be inspected and the fault corrected for the code to clear permanently.

If the repair is only a loose harness connector, there may be no parts cost at all, with labor being the primary expense. Replacing a failed out of balance switch typically involves a modest parts cost, with the total repair bill for a technician visit generally ranging from around $80 to $200 depending on local labor rates and parts pricing. A damaged wiring harness may fall on the higher end of that range.

A knowledgeable DIYer can tackle this repair by starting with the harness connector at the out of balance switch, checking that it is fully seated and free of corrosion. If the connector is secure, continuity testing the switch and harness wires is the next step. Replacing a failed switch or a damaged harness section is a straightforward task for someone comfortable with basic electrical diagnosis on appliances.

Running the washer while this fault is active is not recommended. The out of balance switch is a protective component, and with it faulted, the machine may not be able to detect a genuine imbalance condition during spin. This could allow the drum to spin aggressively while unbalanced, potentially causing mechanical damage to the machine or creating a safety hazard.