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Error code reference

Kenmore Washer Error Code dE2

Foreign objects such as coins, pins, clips caught between the wash plate and the inner basket causing motor issues.

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What the dE2 error code actually means

Your Kenmore washer is showing dE2 because something small, like a coin, pin, or clip, has gotten stuck between the spinning plate at the bottom of the drum and the drum itself. This blockage is straining the motor and causing the machine to stop. You can often fix it yourself by draining the washer, removing your laundry, and pulling out whatever is stuck in that gap.

Diagnostic procedure

The full dE2 procedure

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MyPros+ · DiagnosticsStep 1 preview
1
First diagnostic step
Turn off the washer, press Power button, press spin speed button without selecting a cycle to drain and spin the load, then remove clothes and find/remove objects caught in wash plate.
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Most common causes of dE2

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Coins lodged under the wash plate
  2. 2Bobby pins, hairpins, or paper clips
  3. 3Bra underwires or small plastic objects
  4. 4Accumulated debris buildup over time
  5. 5Damaged or warped wash plate

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Questions people ask about dE2

What does dE2 mean on a Kenmore washer?
The dE2 code means a foreign object such as a coin, pin, or clip has become trapped between the wash plate and the inner basket. This obstruction puts abnormal strain on the drive motor, causing the washer to stop and display the error. The machine is protecting itself from motor damage by halting the cycle until the obstruction is removed.
Will resetting my Kenmore washer clear the dE2 error?
A simple reset will not permanently clear dE2 if the physical obstruction is still present. The error will return as soon as the wash plate encounters the same resistance during the next cycle. You must locate and remove the foreign object causing the blockage before the error will stay cleared.
How much does it cost to repair a dE2 error on a Kenmore washer?
In most cases, dE2 requires no parts and no repair cost because removing the stuck foreign object resolves the issue completely. If the wash plate itself is found to be damaged and needs replacement, parts and labor costs can range from roughly $75 to $200 depending on the specific model and local labor rates. Catching the problem early by addressing the error promptly helps avoid more expensive motor-related repairs.
How do I fix the dE2 error on my Kenmore washer?
Start by turning off the washer, then press the Power button and press the Spin Speed button without choosing a full cycle to drain and spin out any water. Once the drum is drained, remove your laundry and inspect the gap around the wash plate at the bottom of the drum. Remove any foreign objects you find, then restart the washer normally to see if the error clears.
Is it safe to keep using my washer while the dE2 code is showing?
You should not run a full wash cycle while dE2 is active. Continuing to operate the washer with a blocked wash plate can put sustained stress on the drive motor, potentially leading to motor damage or other component failures. Use only the drain and spin function as directed to clear the water, then address the obstruction before resuming normal use.

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