Midea Washer Error Code E3

The E3 code on a Midea washer signals a lid open or door lock fault. The washer's control board has detected that the lid is not secured or that the door lock circuit is not responding correctly. The machine will not run a spin cycle until this condition is resolved. The cause can range from a simple unlatched lid to a failed lock assembly or PCB.

No, you should not attempt to bypass or ignore the E3 error. The door lock interlock exists to prevent the lid from opening during high-speed spinning, which can cause injury. The washer is designed to halt operation when this fault is detected, and running it in a faulted state is not safe or possible under normal conditions.

If only the door lock assembly needs replacement, parts typically cost in the range of $15 to $50 depending on the specific model, and the repair is generally straightforward for a DIYer. A broken lid latch strike is often an inexpensive plastic part. If the PCB is at fault, the repair cost rises considerably, with control boards often ranging from $80 to $200 or more, and professional labor adding to that total.

Start by firmly closing the lid until you hear or feel the latch click, then restart the cycle. If the error persists, inspect the lid latch strike for cracks and check the door lock assembly for visible damage. If those components appear intact, check the wiring harness connecting the lock to the control board for loose or corroded terminals. A failed door lock assembly or PCB will require part replacement to resolve the code.

A power reset, such as unplugging the machine for a minute and restarting it, may temporarily clear the code if it was triggered by a minor glitch. However, if the underlying cause is a faulty door lock assembly, broken latch strike, or damaged PCB, the error will return as soon as the washer attempts to run. A reset is a useful first step but is not a substitute for diagnosing the root cause.