Kenmore Washer Error Code E59

E59 means the washer's control board did not receive a tachometer signal from the drive motor for 3 seconds. The tachometer monitors the motor's rotational speed, and without this signal the washer cannot confirm the motor is running correctly. The machine stops the cycle to prevent damage. Diagnosis starts by removing the belt and checking if the motor pulley spins freely.

You should not continue using the washer while E59 is active. The error indicates the control board cannot monitor motor speed, which means the motor could be seized or operating without proper feedback. Running the washer in this condition risks further mechanical damage to the motor, drum components, or control board.

A reset may temporarily clear the E59 code from the display, but it will not resolve the underlying problem. If the motor is seized, the tacho sensor is defective, or wiring is damaged, the error will return as soon as the washer attempts to run the motor again. A proper repair requires identifying and fixing the root cause rather than relying on a reset.

Begin by removing the drive belt and spinning the motor pulley by hand to check for a seized motor. If the pulley spins freely, inspect the tacho wiring harness for damaged, corroded, or loose connections. If wiring is intact, the tachometer sensor inside the motor or the control board may need to be tested and possibly replaced. Addressing the faulty component identified through testing will clear the error.

Repair costs vary depending on the faulty component. A replacement drive belt is typically in the range of $10 to $30 for the part. A new drive motor can cost anywhere from $80 to $200 or more for the part alone. If the motor control board needs replacement, parts costs generally range from $100 to $250. Adding professional labor will increase the total estimate in each case.