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Error code reference

Kenmore Dryer Error Code F-43

Motor control detects a low voltage condition (undervoltage warning); dryer will continue to run at a set…

Kenmore codesKenmore dryer codes

Motor control detects a low voltage condition (undervoltage warning); dryer will continue to run at a set blower speed.

First step from the service manual

See TEST #1 and DIAGNOSTIC: Displaying Line Voltage.

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

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What F-43 means on a Kenmore dryer

The F-43 error code on a Kenmore dryer indicates that the motor control board has detected an undervoltage condition on the incoming power supply. The motor control module continuously monitors line voltage and triggers this warning when the voltage drops below an acceptable threshold. Unlike some fault codes that immediately shut the unit down, F-43 is classified as a warning: the dryer will continue operating, but the blower will be held at a fixed speed rather than varying as it normally would during the cycle.

The root cause is typically found in the electrical supply rather than within the dryer itself. A weak or unstable 240-volt supply, a failing terminal block connection, a deteriorating power cord, or a problem at the household circuit breaker can all cause voltage to sag below the motor control's acceptable range. High-resistance connections at any point in the supply path generate voltage drop under load, which is a common contributor to this condition. Shared circuits or undersized wiring can also produce intermittent undervoltage events.

Diagnosing this code requires following TEST #1 and the DIAGNOSTIC: Displaying Line Voltage procedure. These procedures allow a technician to read actual line voltage as seen by the control board, confirming whether the issue is with the incoming supply voltage or with internal wiring and connections. Checking both legs of the 240-volt supply at the terminal block under load is an essential part of this evaluation, as a single weak leg can cause the motor control to flag an undervoltage condition while the other leg remains at nominal voltage.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F-43

  1. 01

    Low or unstable household supply voltage

    Wiring / connection

    If the home's 240-volt supply is sagging due to utility issues, a heavily loaded panel, or undersized wiring, the motor control will detect undervoltage. Measuring voltage at the outlet under load will reveal this condition.

  2. 02

    High-resistance terminal block connection

    Part replacement

    Corroded, loose, or heat-damaged connections at the dryer's terminal block create voltage drop when current flows, causing the control to see lower voltage than the supply actually provides. Inspect the terminal block for discoloration, pitting, or loose wires.

  3. 03

    Failing or damaged power cord

    Part replacement

    A power cord with a loose prong, internal break, or damaged conductor introduces resistance that drops voltage under load. Check all four conductors and the plug prongs for signs of heat, damage, or poor contact.

  4. 04

    Weak or tripped circuit breaker leg

    Part replacement

    A double-pole breaker with one weak leg can supply reduced voltage on one side of the 240-volt circuit. Testing voltage at the breaker and the outlet with a meter will identify a single-leg voltage drop.

  5. 05

    Faulty motor control board

    Part replacement

    If supply voltage and all connections test within normal range but the F-43 code persists, the motor control board itself may be incorrectly reading voltage due to an internal component failure. This is confirmed only after ruling out all supply-side causes.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F-43

What does F-43 mean on a Kenmore dryer?
F-43 means the motor control board has detected that the incoming line voltage is lower than the acceptable operating range, an undervoltage warning. The dryer responds by continuing to run but locks the blower to a set speed. This code points to the electrical supply system rather than a mechanical failure. Diagnosing it requires checking line voltage using the built-in diagnostic mode and TEST #1.
Can I still use my Kenmore dryer when the F-43 code is showing?
The dryer is designed to keep running when F-43 is active, operating the blower at a fixed speed rather than shutting down. However, running the dryer on a chronically low-voltage supply can stress the motor control board and other components over time. It is best to identify and correct the voltage issue promptly rather than continuing to use the dryer indefinitely under this condition.
Is the F-43 code on a Kenmore dryer a safety concern?
A persistent undervoltage condition is worth taking seriously from a safety standpoint. High-resistance connections, which are a common cause of voltage drop, can generate significant heat at the terminal block or power cord and create a fire or shock hazard. Having a qualified technician inspect the power cord, terminal block, and circuit breaker connections is a reasonable precaution when this code appears.
Will resetting the Kenmore dryer clear the F-43 code?
Resetting the dryer may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying voltage problem is still present the code will return during the next cycle or when the motor control re-evaluates the supply. A reset does not correct the root cause. The voltage supply, power cord, and connections need to be tested and repaired to resolve the condition permanently.
How much does it cost to fix a Kenmore dryer showing F-43?
The repair cost depends entirely on where the fault is found. If the issue is at the household circuit breaker, an electrician's service call typically runs between $100 and $250. Replacing a power cord generally costs between $20 and $60 for the part plus labor. A terminal block replacement is usually $15 to $40 for the part. If the motor control board turns out to be faulty, board replacement costs can range from $150 to $350 depending on the specific model and whether a technician is hired.

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