Panasonic washing machines
Panasonic has an excellent reputation for consumer electronics, but white goods are a fundamentally different product category. The key questions for any washing machine brand are: how good is the after-sales service, are spare parts readily available, and do they have their own engineers or rely on third-party networks? On these measures, Panasonic’s track record in the UK white goods market is limited and the answers have historically been less reassuring than established white goods manufacturers.
Panasonic’s reputation in consumer electronics is well deserved. The question of whether that reputation translates to washing machines is less straightforward than it might initially appear.
Why Brown Goods Reputation Doesn’t Automatically Transfer to White Goods
Consumer electronics and white goods are manufactured in completely different ways, require different engineering disciplines, and present different reliability challenges. A television is a sealed unit with no moving parts in normal operation. A washing machine is a water-handling, heat-generating machine with multiple motors, pumps, bearings, seals, valves, and a drum rotating at up to 1600rpm under heavy load. Reliability is significantly harder to achieve and maintain in white goods than in consumer electronics.
Panasonic’s strengths
- Established reputation for quality in consumer electronics
- Strong commercial incentive to maintain quality standards across product categories
- Positioned in the mid-to-upper price range, suggesting quality focus rather than budget positioning
Reasons for caution
- Limited white goods track record in the UK compared to brands that have been producing washing machines since the 1950s
- Spare parts availability and technical information have historically been more difficult to obtain than from established white goods manufacturers
- No directly employed service engineers in the UK – relies on third-party repair networks
- White goods repair requires a very different infrastructure from brown goods servicing
Why After-Sales Service Matters More for White Goods
Consumer electronics rarely need repairs during their working life. Washing machines, by contrast, have significantly higher repair rates and require a well-established infrastructure of spare parts, technical documentation, and trained engineers to support them through their service life.
Spare parts availability
Washing machines need spare parts – pumps, bearings, door seals, carbon brushes, control boards. Established white goods brands have spare parts supply chains developed over decades. Newer entrants take time to build the same depth of parts availability, and the difference is felt by engineers trying to repair out-of-guarantee machines.
Technical documentation
Independent engineers need access to technical service documentation to diagnose and repair appliances. Some manufacturers make this readily available; others are reluctant to share it. Where technical documentation is difficult to obtain, machines become harder for independent engineers to repair effectively.
Engineer network quality
Panasonic, like most brown goods manufacturers that have moved into white goods, does not employ its own service engineers in the UK. It relies on third-party repair networks. The quality and consistency of third-party networks varies more than directly employed engineers. See our guide on manufacturer vs independent engineers.
How Panasonic Compares
Panasonic’s white goods are positioned in a similar price range to LG and AEG. At this price point, the relevant questions are: what does Panasonic offer that AEG or LG do not, and how does the after-sales proposition compare? Panasonic may perform well on reliability or features in specific areas, but the after-sales infrastructure is an important part of the overall value of a washing machine purchase – particularly when considering that most washing machines will need at least one repair during a typical service life.
For a thorough comparison of which brands offer the best combination of quality, reliability, and after-sales support at different price points, see our guide on which is the best washing machine to buy.
The Panasonic washing machine range was launched in the UK in 2009. The brand’s track record in UK white goods is consequently limited compared to manufacturers that have been producing washing machines here since the 1950s and 60s. A short track record is not a reason to avoid a brand, but it is a reason to look carefully at the after-sales provision before purchasing.
Buying a Washing Machine?
Related Guides
Which Is the Best Washing Machine to Buy?A guide to brand quality, build standards, and which brands offer the best value at different price points.
Who Really Makes Your Washing Machine?The ownership structure behind washing machine brands and what it means for quality and parts availability.
Manufacturer or Independent Engineer?The pros and cons of manufacturer service networks versus independent engineers for appliance repairs.
How Long Should a Washing Machine Last?Expected lifespans by brand tier and what affects how long a machine will remain in service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Panasonic washing machines good quality?
Panasonic’s reputation in consumer electronics is strong and there is no reason to assume their washing machines are poorly built. However, washing machine quality is not simply a matter of initial build standard – the availability of spare parts, quality of the service network, and access to technical documentation all affect how well an appliance is supported over its service life. On these measures, Panasonic has less established provision in the UK than brands with decades of white goods history.
How does Panasonic compare to LG or AEG at the same price?
LG has been selling white goods in the UK significantly longer than Panasonic and has had more time to develop its parts and service infrastructure. AEG is part of the Electrolux group with a long white goods heritage. Panasonic at the same price point may offer comparable features and initial quality, but the after-sales comparison should be checked carefully before purchasing, particularly regarding parts availability and service engineer networks.
Does Panasonic have its own engineers in the UK?
No. Like most brown goods manufacturers that have moved into white goods, Panasonic relies on third-party repair networks rather than directly employed engineers. This is common across many brands but is worth factoring into the decision, as the quality and consistency of third-party networks varies more than directly employed service engineers.
102 Comments
Grouped into 91 comment threads.
0 replies Thanks William for your comments. I agree with you that the seal is faulty. The machine still sounds like new and is very quiet. The engineer phoned me late in the day to tell me that Panasonic want pictures of the bearings so he has booked us a double slot next week when he will come and strip down the machine. The lack of noise suggests to me that he won't find anything wrong with the bearings but hopefully he will use a new seal which will solve our problem. What I don't understand is why he didn't do this on the first visit as I now have to pull the machine back out of it's location and into the kitchen once again where he will have the space to work on it.
1 reply Our Panasonic NA-148VG4 is 13 months old and over the last 4 weeks we noticed that some of the clothes had what appeared to be grease or oil stains on them. We have run a service wash at high temperature 3 times over the last 3 weeks with no success. We requested an engineer to call as the machine was still covered by the 2 year warranty. The engineer called this morning, took photographs of the soiled clothes and then called his manager. He then told us to do another service wash and that he would call us later in the day. So we are now in limbo as to what will happen next. I assume that they do not want to carry out a repair because it is either too time consuming, too expensive or perhaps both, but surely they could let us know if the repair is feasible or not. It's a shame that this has happened as we have quite a few Panasonic appliances in our house and have always regarded them as manufacturers of quality products.
Our Panasonic NA-148VG4 is 13 months old and over the last 4 weeks we noticed that some of the clothes had what appeared to be grease or oil stains on them.
We have run a service wash at high temperature 3 times over the last 3 weeks with no success.
We requested an engineer to call as the machine was still covered by the 2 year warranty.
The engineer called this morning, took photographs of the soiled clothes and then called his manager.
He then told us to do another service wash and that he would call us later in the day.
So we are now in limbo as to what will happen next.
I assume that they do not want to carry out a repair because it is either too time consuming, too expensive or perhaps both, but surely they could let us know if the repair is feasible or not.
It’s a shame that this has happened as we have quite a few Panasonic appliances in our house and have always regarded them as manufacturers of quality products.
0 replies Bought my Panasonic NA-148VA 4 years ago. Happy washing until yesterday. Error code H55. Rang Panasonic and engineer came out. He said circuit board has blown, he can smell smoke and motor is gone also. Panasonic say I only have two year guarantee I cannot find out what is the guarantee for parts, if that's 5 years I might be ok. What should I do? This is the first problem with machine. help
Bought my Panasonic NA-148VA 4 years ago. Happy washing until yesterday. Error code H55. Rang Panasonic and engineer came out. He said circuit board has blown, he can smell smoke and motor is gone also.
Panasonic say I only have two year guarantee I cannot find out what is the guarantee for parts, if that’s 5 years I might be ok.
What should I do?
This is the first problem with machine.
help
0 replies It's very bizarre to think of a part missing on production, I've never heard of it before but couldn't say if it's possible or not without knowing how they are manufactured. However, I would expect that if the large jubilee clip holding the door seal to the tub was missing the door seal should have come off pretty much straight away as soon as it started thumping about on spin with a big load in. It's very surprising to imagine one staying on without the clip as they are normally just loosely fitted over a lip and rely on the band to hold it in place.
It’s very bizarre to think of a part missing on production, I’ve never heard of it before but couldn’t say if it’s possible or not without knowing how they are manufactured. However, I would expect that if the large jubilee clip holding the door seal to the tub was missing the door seal should have come off pretty much straight away as soon as it started thumping about on spin with a big load in. It’s very surprising to imagine one staying on without the clip as they are normally just loosely fitted over a lip and rely on the band to hold it in place.
0 replies where I work they purchased a Panasonic washer it was discovered by the local washer repairman the jubilee clip around the large rubber door seal was missing hence it has leaked and got into the sensors over time it was past its 2year warranty by 3months it cost over £600.00 is this a mistake in they did not fit one has anyone else had this problem
where I work they purchased a Panasonic washer it was discovered by the local washer repairman the jubilee clip around the large rubber door seal was missing hence it has leaked and got into the sensors over time it was past its 2year warranty by 3months it cost over £600.00 is this a mistake in they did not fit one has anyone else had this problem
0 replies Panasonic NA-127VB4WGB failed bearings within 15 months of purchase... lucky the machine had a 2 year warranty and whilst it has taken a while to sort out (Panasonic are sending out a different better spec replacement model as the original retailer did not have a suitable replacement in stock which has caused the main delay)... I managed to convince the engineer to leave the machine in one piece and send proof of the bearing issue to Panasonic using a smartphone video so that I was not left without a useable machine (in theory the engineer needs to dismantle the drum to prove that the bearings are shot). Worth trying this approach if you have similar issues. Anyway I hope the replacement Panasonic NA-140vg4wgb that they are sending lasts longer! Thankfully not been left without a washing machine during the process and should end up with a better spec machine for little money (I purchased the original in a sale).
Panasonic NA-127VB4WGB failed bearings within 15 months of purchase… lucky the machine had a 2 year warranty and whilst it has taken a while to sort out (Panasonic are sending out a different better spec replacement model as the original retailer did not have a suitable replacement in stock which has caused the main delay)… I managed to convince the engineer to leave the machine in one piece and send proof of the bearing issue to Panasonic using a smartphone video so that I was not left without a useable machine (in theory the engineer needs to dismantle the drum to prove that the bearings are shot). Worth trying this approach if you have similar issues. Anyway I hope the replacement Panasonic NA-140vg4wgb that they are sending lasts longer! Thankfully not been left without a washing machine during the process and should end up with a better spec machine for little money (I purchased the original in a sale).
1 reply Have just received a Panasonic 140VS4WGB, it worked for 3 days and the I got error code H43. Service engineer came and emptied the water from the bottom of the machine, said he could not see a leek and left. When my wife got home she try to use it, and yes error code H43 appeared again and clearly it is still leaking. I have booked another engineer but have told the retailer I purchased it from if this does not work I will be requesting a full refund under the 4 week consumer law rule.
Have just received a Panasonic 140VS4WGB, it worked for 3 days and the I got error code H43. Service engineer came and emptied the water from the bottom of the machine, said he could not see a leek and left. When my wife got home she try to use it, and yes error code H43 appeared again and clearly it is still leaking. I have booked another engineer but have told the retailer I purchased it from if this does not work I will be requesting a full refund under the 4 week consumer law rule.
Likely replying to Ray
Hello Ray. It does seem bizarre for an engineer to find water in the base of a machine and not be convinced it must have leaked from somewhere. It should have been tested with a load of laundry inside (some leaks only occur when the washer bounces around with washing inside) on wash, rinse and spin. However, I doubt if many engineers have that luxury of time, which is why we so often get such poor service as lamented in my article here – Why are there so many appliance repair horror stories?
People seem to receive bad service across many brands but if a manufacturer uses a third party company they tend not to pay much so engineers have to cram as many into a day as possible. However, if they get called back soon after they are unlikely to get paid either so it’s a difficult balancing act between trying to be as quick and efficient as possible. Must be very frustrating and I’m not surprised you are unimpressed.
0 replies Quite a few brands are similarly not lasting very long. You may have a claim against the retailer under the sale of goods act if it's been used normally, cost £500 and has only lasted 3 years.
Quite a few brands are similarly not lasting very long. You may have a claim against the retailer under the sale of goods act if it’s been used normally, cost £500 and has only lasted 3 years.
1 reply We bought a NA-168VX2WG from John Lewis in September 2010 - it cost close to £600 so not cheap by any standards. It's fair to say we've used the machine a lot, from a couple of days a week up to almost every day when our baby arrived. It's been rock solid up until the last 6 months; the first issue was a H53 error which indicated a motor failure of some description but actually turned out to be a PCB failure, and just last week, the machine started grinding, and flooded the kitchen. On both occasions the engineers turned up in a couple of days, the first time they had the part in the van, but today, to my astonishment, they've written off the machine as BER (beyond economical repair) as the bearings are shot - under 4 years old and written off - crazy stuff! Not sure what happens next as we are waiting for Panasonic to call us to discuss options, the repairers said they'll either ship a new machine or send vouchers to buy a new one - but not sure what that means for the remainder of the warranty (2+ years) - I guess it'll depend on whether they fulfil the new machine order themselves (if they send one, balance of warranty will pass to new machine, but if they send vouchers, I'm guessing, if I went with another Panasonic machine, I could get the extended warranty on the new machine?)
We bought a NA-168VX2WG from John Lewis in September 2010 – it cost close to £600 so not cheap by any standards. It’s fair to say we’ve used the machine a lot, from a couple of days a week up to almost every day when our baby arrived. It’s been rock solid up until the last 6 months; the first issue was a H53 error which indicated a motor failure of some description but actually turned out to be a PCB failure, and just last week, the machine started grinding, and flooded the kitchen.
On both occasions the engineers turned up in a couple of days, the first time they had the part in the van, but today, to my astonishment, they’ve written off the machine as BER (beyond economical repair) as the bearings are shot – under 4 years old and written off – crazy stuff!
Not sure what happens next as we are waiting for Panasonic to call us to discuss options, the repairers said they’ll either ship a new machine or send vouchers to buy a new one – but not sure what that means for the remainder of the warranty (2+ years) – I guess it’ll depend on whether they fulfil the new machine order themselves (if they send one, balance of warranty will pass to new machine, but if they send vouchers, I’m guessing, if I went with another Panasonic machine, I could get the extended warranty on the new machine?)
0 replies Update on bearings replacement on these Panasonic machines. I have now done a bearing replacement job on one of these tubs (the MK 2 version but is the same as the MK 1 tubs). They are standard bearings (can’t remember the numbers off the top of my head sorry) and are widely available for a marginal cost BUT the seal is a special, is NOT available from Panasonic, there are no pattern ones and the bearing / seal companies I have tried cannot match it up to anything else I could get some made but the minimum order quantity is 1000 to set the machinery up, so is not cost effective! If the seal is OK and you can get it out in 1 piece (very carefully) and replace it using plenty of grease then it can be re-used but obviously you can’t offer any guarantees it won’t leak or let water past it to get back into the bearings! I did this as an experimental project on one of my own machines and it did take the best part of a day to strip & re-build in a workshop with full range of tools and plenty of space to put all the various items you have to take off not easily done in a customers kitchen ! As a customer repair I wouldn’t entertain doing a repair especially as I wouldn’t be able to offer any sort of guarantees that it would last any length of time without leaking or the bearings going again quickly These are a nightmare to strip compared to most machines and have to know the machines quite well before even attempting to take apart, as there are hidden screws and a certain order in which the parts have to be removed and re-assembled definitely NOT a DIY repair for the untrained ! The MK 1 & 2 tubs look the same, the MK 3 looks similar but haven’t had one stripped & the MK 4 are completely different machines altogether (they are quite similar to the HEC / Russell Hobbs etc machines with a small access slit on the back big enough to get your finger nail into if you know what I mean..) These are not a sealed tub, but might as well be due to the unavailability of the seals and complex construction of the machine I did this bearing job around 4 months ago and is still running fine, but could break tomorrow! Bearing replacement, stripped & re-built time on a Hotpoint WF / WMA Machine (non sealed tub) 40 minutes Bearing replacement, stripped & re-built time on Bosch non sealed tub machine 60-90 minutes Bearing replacement, stripped & re-built time on Panasonic 7-8 hours ! I hope this info is useful as a reference to all.
Update on bearings replacement on these Panasonic machines.
I have now done a bearing replacement job on one of these tubs (the MK 2 version but is the same as the MK 1 tubs).
They are standard bearings (can’t remember the numbers off the top of my head sorry) and are widely available for a marginal cost BUT the seal is a special, is NOT available from Panasonic, there are no pattern ones and the bearing / seal companies I have tried cannot match it up to anything else I could get some made but the minimum order quantity is 1000 to set the machinery up, so is not cost effective!
If the seal is OK and you can get it out in 1 piece (very carefully) and replace it using plenty of grease then it can be re-used but obviously you can’t offer any guarantees it won’t leak or let water past it to get back into the bearings!
I did this as an experimental project on one of my own machines and it did take the best part of a day to strip & re-build in a workshop with full range of tools and plenty of space to put all the various items you have to take off not easily done in a customers kitchen !
As a customer repair I wouldn’t entertain doing a repair especially as I wouldn’t be able to offer any sort of guarantees that it would last any length of time without leaking or the bearings going again quickly
These are a nightmare to strip compared to most machines and have to know the machines quite well before even attempting to take apart, as there are hidden screws and a certain order in which the parts have to be removed and re-assembled definitely NOT a DIY repair for the untrained !
The MK 1 & 2 tubs look the same, the MK 3 looks similar but haven’t had one stripped & the MK 4 are completely different machines altogether (they are quite similar to the HEC / Russell Hobbs etc machines with a small access slit on the back big enough to get your finger nail into if you know what I mean..)
These are not a sealed tub, but might as well be due to the unavailability of the seals and complex construction of the machine I did this bearing job around 4 months ago and is still running fine, but could break tomorrow!
Bearing replacement, stripped & re-built time on a Hotpoint WF / WMA Machine (non sealed tub) 40 minutes
Bearing replacement, stripped & re-built time on Bosch non sealed tub machine 60-90 minutes
Bearing replacement, stripped & re-built time on Panasonic 7-8 hours !
I hope this info is useful as a reference to all.
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0 replies I can't advise about specific faults but Davey Boy posted a list of Panasonic error codes in these comments. I also have DIY washer repair help here.
I can’t advise about specific faults but Davey Boy posted a list of Panasonic error codes in these comments. I also have DIY washer repair help here.
0 replies I have problem with my panasonic automatic washing machine. After washing, by right it will also automatically dry .Unfortunately it will stop and have a U error code which is not on the error code list. I do not have any choice but to use my separate dryer to finish my job. Any idea is very much appreciated
I have problem with my panasonic automatic washing machine. After washing, by right it will also automatically dry .Unfortunately it will stop and have a U error code which is not on the error code list. I do not have any choice but to use my separate dryer to finish my job. Any idea is very much appreciated
0 replies It's not only the quality of the machines that have decreased. So has the manufacturers service agents, if my recent experiences are anything to go by. I recently bought, on Ebay, a Miele washing machine which, apparently, required £700 worth of spare parts to repair. This estimate was from the local Miele service guy. The usual £5 worth of components on the PCB was all it needed. Admittedly Miele would only quote for a replacement board. It seemed to be a case of frighten the customer with a high estimate, collect £70 for his call out and leave, knowing full well he would not be coming back. That is why people now prefer to opt for a new machine, usually a pile of Chinese junk, rather than call someone out, because they believe us all to be 'rip-off merchants'. The likes of 'Watchdog' and 'Rogue Agents' do not help us honest Service Technicians. Note:- We are not Engineers.
It’s not only the quality of the machines that have decreased. So has the manufacturers service agents, if my recent experiences are anything to go by. I recently bought, on Ebay, a Miele washing machine which, apparently, required £700 worth of spare parts to repair. This estimate was from the local Miele service guy. The usual £5 worth of components on the PCB was all it needed. Admittedly Miele would only quote for a replacement board. It seemed to be a case of frighten the customer with a high estimate, collect £70 for his call out and leave, knowing full well he would not be coming back. That is why people now prefer to opt for a new machine, usually a pile of Chinese junk, rather than call someone out, because they believe us all to be ‘rip-off merchants’. The likes of ‘Watchdog’ and ‘Rogue Agents’ do not help us honest Service Technicians. Note:- We are not Engineers.
0 replies The drums and tubs are priced at levels no one in their right mind would buy. If the washing machine is designed so that drum bearings can't be replaced economically then it's scrap after just 2 years. If it's just been used normally, I would say it hasn't lasted a reasonable time (as would any normal sensible person). If Panasonic aren't prepared to accept any responsibility then under the UK Sale of goods act you have to chase up the retailer you bought it from. https://www.whitegoodshelp.co.uk/faulty-appliances-consumer-rights-act/
The drums and tubs are priced at levels no one in their right mind would buy. If the washing machine is designed so that drum bearings can’t be replaced economically then it’s scrap after just 2 years. If it’s just been used normally, I would say it hasn’t lasted a reasonable time (as would any normal sensible person). If Panasonic aren’t prepared to accept any responsibility then under the UK Sale of goods act you have to chase up the retailer you bought it from.
https://www.whitegoodshelp.co.uk/faulty-appliances-consumer-rights-act/
0 replies Our Panasonic NA-148VA2 has been in use since April 2011 in our brand new house and is suffering from noisy bearings... so far Panasonic don't want to know and their repair agents told me it'll cost £135 callout and won't replace bearings - possible write off??? I can get a new drum for £209 +VAT!!! But would rather tackle a bearing replacement (I'm a TV engineer and have repaired many a washing machine). Has anyone had success in sourcing bearings and seals before I replace this otherwise reliable machine!
Our Panasonic NA-148VA2 has been in use since April 2011 in our brand new house and is suffering from noisy bearings… so far Panasonic don’t want to know and their repair agents told me it’ll cost £135 callout and won’t replace bearings – possible write off??? I can get a new drum for £209 +VAT!!! But would rather tackle a bearing replacement (I’m a TV engineer and have repaired many a washing machine). Has anyone had success in sourcing bearings and seals before I replace this otherwise reliable machine!
0 replies I have had a Panasonic NA1400 7k Since September 2010 purchased from Comet. Threw up could not spin code last Sunday.. Have extended warranty. Below is our experience of Panasonic Customer service: Monday am - called. Engineer booked for Wednesday. Wednesday - engineer called between quoted time and arrived at house during time slot. Ran machine, showed husband fault. Said Panasonic did not replace bearing, said New Machine. Was also advised not to use it as it could ruin clothes. Thursday - Panasonic customer services called. Told husband that they would deliver new machine model equivalent to old one next Saturday, install and take old one away. It would have been sooner if had not been for work commitments. The above is a précis but neither of us can fault Panasonic's customer service and care. As regards the machine, machines do break down. The build quality is very good, never missed a beat until last Sunday and it is used constantly. Used launderette yesterday. Three machines took less than 30 mins to do a week's worthy of washing at 40 and 1 hour to tumble dry what could be tumbled dried. All beautifully clean. Enlightening. Even with new washing machine will still use launderette every so often. Where can you buy these big commercial machines?
I have had a Panasonic NA1400 7k Since September 2010 purchased from Comet. Threw up could not spin code last Sunday.. Have extended warranty. Below is our experience of Panasonic Customer service:
Monday am – called. Engineer booked for Wednesday.
Wednesday – engineer called between quoted time and arrived at house during time slot. Ran machine, showed husband fault. Said Panasonic did not replace bearing, said New Machine. Was also advised not to use it as it could ruin clothes.
Thursday – Panasonic customer services called. Told husband that they would deliver new machine model equivalent to old one next Saturday, install and take old one away. It would have been sooner if had not been for work commitments.
The above is a précis but neither of us can fault Panasonic’s customer service and care. As regards the machine, machines do break down. The build quality is very good, never missed a beat until last Sunday and it is used constantly.
Used launderette yesterday. Three machines took less than 30 mins to do a week’s worthy of washing at 40 and 1 hour to tumble dry what could be tumbled dried. All beautifully clean. Enlightening. Even with new washing machine will still use launderette every so often. Where can you buy these big commercial machines?
0 replies Thanks for your comments Anonymous. You highlight the problem well, their washing machines seem more focussed on features than build quality so the relatively expensive cost is for innovations and bells and whistles, but more importantly there is a lot of anecdotal evidence that they simply don't have a good enough after sales service set up. It appears to be just the same for the other household-name brown goods manufacturers.
Thanks for your comments Anonymous. You highlight the problem well, their washing machines seem more focussed on features than build quality so the relatively expensive cost is for innovations and bells and whistles, but more importantly there is a lot of anecdotal evidence that they simply don’t have a good enough after sales service set up. It appears to be just the same for the other household-name brown goods manufacturers.
0 replies My NA-16VX1 bought during Summer 2009 threw up the "H 01" error last Sunday. Apparently the 'water level detector' (pressure switch, to everyone else!) was misreading the level. The local Panasonic shop was very helpful in supplying error code information. I managed to unplug and re-plug the connector, presuming it was just a poor contact. Operated okay since. However, I did notice that the motor wiring harness was trailing on the baseplate, near protruding screws and the sharp edge of an access panel. Several cheap twisted wire ties were used! Dear God, why weren't robust cable ties used? I replaced them with proper cable ties. Also noticed that a similar wire tie had broken on the 3D sensor wiring harness. Drain pump has always been noisy, despite being totally clear. The machine was not cheap; I expected far superior quality. The Panasonic shop doesn't deal with the machines any more, citing spares availability. I won't buy a Panasonic washing machine again.
My NA-16VX1 bought during Summer 2009 threw up the “H 01” error last Sunday. Apparently the ‘water level detector’ (pressure switch, to everyone else!) was misreading the level. The local Panasonic shop was very helpful in supplying error code information. I managed to unplug and re-plug the connector, presuming it was just a poor contact. Operated okay since. However, I did notice that the motor wiring harness was trailing on the baseplate, near protruding screws and the sharp edge of an access panel. Several cheap twisted wire ties were used! Dear God, why weren’t robust cable ties used? I replaced them with proper cable ties. Also noticed that a similar wire tie had broken on the 3D sensor wiring harness.
Drain pump has always been noisy, despite being totally clear.
The machine was not cheap; I expected far superior quality. The Panasonic shop doesn’t deal with the machines any more, citing spares availability. I won’t buy a Panasonic washing machine again.
0 replies £135 is ludicrous. Check out this article in case there's not actually a fault being as you say when you reposition clothes you can get it to finish https://www.whitegoodshelp.co.uk/wont-spin-one-item-or-small-loads/
£135 is ludicrous. Check out this article in case there’s not actually a fault being as you say when you reposition clothes you can get it to finish
https://www.whitegoodshelp.co.uk/wont-spin-one-item-or-small-loads/
0 replies I have a panasonic NA168VG2 washing machine that keeps showing error code U13! This onlyhappens when the spin starts. If you reposition the clothes 3-4 times it will normally finish the cycle. The machine is now out of warranty. I have been in touch with panasonic customer support and they have advised me to contact their service agent. GDHA I was quoted £135 call out so I have referred it back to panasonic . I'll let you know how I get on ?
I have a panasonic NA168VG2 washing machine that keeps showing error code U13! This onlyhappens when the spin starts. If you reposition the clothes 3-4 times it will normally finish the cycle. The machine is now out of warranty. I have been in touch with panasonic customer support and they have advised me to contact their service agent. GDHA I was quoted £135 call out so I have referred it back to panasonic . I’ll let you know how I get on ?
0 replies Hi, we have a Panasonic NV-140VG3 which has caused damage to my wife & daughter's bras. The tally has now reached 7 pieces of damaged underwear. These have always been placed in a washing bag as recommended and on a delicate wash. Upon unloading the machine damage is noted to the bag and the contents within. The machine has been replaced due to this problem, but the replacement machine (just one month old) has started to do the same thing. When looking in the drum, it appears the problem is a fairly large grey plastic 'bracket' that is fitted in the ten o'clock position, this has become burred, which in turn appears to be causing the damage. Would anybody know what this part actually is and what purpose it serves, and if (and how) it can be removed without causing any other ongoing problems?
Hi, we have a Panasonic NV-140VG3 which has caused damage to my wife & daughter’s bras. The tally has now reached 7 pieces of damaged underwear. These have always been placed in a washing bag as recommended and on a delicate wash. Upon unloading the machine damage is noted to the bag and the contents within. The machine has been replaced due to this problem, but the replacement machine (just one month old) has started to do the same thing.
When looking in the drum, it appears the problem is a fairly large grey plastic ‘bracket’ that is fitted in the ten o’clock position, this has become burred, which in turn appears to be causing the damage.
Would anybody know what this part actually is and what purpose it serves, and if (and how) it can be removed without causing any other ongoing problems?
0 replies Further to my comment of Jan 2013, I had the retailer [currys] come and collect the panasonic machine at the same time as they delivered a new BOSCH machine, The Bosch has never given me any concern and does the job so well. All i had to do was connect it up and plug it in.
Further to my comment of Jan 2013, I had the retailer [currys] come and collect the panasonic machine at the same time as they delivered a new BOSCH machine, The Bosch has never given me any concern and does the job so well. All i had to do was connect it up and plug it in.
1 reply I bought a Panasonic washing machine on Wednesday as recommended by the very nice man in John Lewis and the fact that it boasted the which 2012 best buy sticker. I have to say it has been one of my worse decisions ever made. It washed like a dream on Friday and I managed to get all the children's dark coloured school uniform washed in one go. I was very impressed until Saturday morning when I put in the white clothes, the wash started and then the fatal error U11 appeared. We checked the hose and all was ok, so we started it again and still the error came up. We then changed the hose for a new one, checked outside and all was ok and so started it up again....yes you guessed it the error came up again. After spending the whole of yesterday draining and starting the washing machine we finally gave up and called John Lewis who as expected were fantastic. They are coming to pick it up on Thursday and have agreed to refund me. I have ordered an LG today and will be expecting it on Wednesday. What a shame I didn't read your comments before I wasted my time and money with Panasonic, NEVER AGAIN ! Absolute rubbish !
I bought a Panasonic washing machine on Wednesday as recommended by the very nice man in John Lewis and the fact that it boasted the which 2012 best buy sticker. I have to say it has been one of my worse decisions ever made. It washed like a dream on Friday and I managed to get all the children’s dark coloured school uniform washed in one go. I was very impressed until Saturday morning when I put in the white clothes, the wash started and then the fatal error U11 appeared. We checked the hose and all was ok, so we started it again and still the error came up. We then changed the hose for a new one, checked outside and all was ok and so started it up again….yes you guessed it the error came up again. After spending the whole of yesterday draining and starting the washing machine we finally gave up and called John Lewis who as expected were fantastic. They are coming to pick it up on Thursday and have agreed to refund me. I have ordered an LG today and will be expecting it on Wednesday. What a shame I didn’t read your comments before I wasted my time and money with Panasonic, NEVER AGAIN ! Absolute rubbish !
Likely replying to Diana
Hello Diana: It’s good to hear about first class service from John Lewis, which is why I promote them so much. I’m pretty sure that almost all other retailers would insist you wait for an engineer to come and check the fault.
However, the reason they do that is perfectly legitimate because many faults turn out to be user faults or installation faults. It’s very rare for any appliance – even the completely rubbish ones – to be faulty the first time they are used, and to be honest, U11 error on a Panasonic washing machine means “The washing machine cannot drain”, which 9 times out of 10 is caused by some obstruction getting into the pump or blocking its filter, or even a badly kinked drain hose or other obstruction in the outlet it pumps the water in to.
Of course it’s also possible that the pump or a connection on it is at fault, but until an engineer has checked it it’s impossible to know so it’s unfair to blame the washing machine.
If John Lewis are prepared to come out quickly and swap it over without even checking it that shows service above and beyond the call of duty :)
0 replies My NA-147VB4 has had a programme malfunction on the two occasions i have used the machine since new 3 days ago. It does not complete the programme and comes up END before the spin cycle. Phoned the customer service centre, they cannot get any one to me for about 10 days. I only bought the machine because of panasonics good reputation in the brown goods market of which i own 4 products.
My NA-147VB4 has had a programme malfunction on the two occasions i have used the machine since new 3 days ago. It does not complete the programme and comes up END before the spin cycle. Phoned the customer service centre, they cannot get any one to me for about 10 days. I only bought the machine because of panasonics good reputation in the brown goods market of which i own 4 products.
0 replies I have had my panasonic for little over a year and just experiencing our second U11 code. Will be calling them on Monday. However, when they came out last year the customer service was excellent. I phoned, didnt have to wait long. Had a slot a day later and the engineer called me when he was 20mins away so I could be home. And, panasonic phoned me the following day to check I was happy. So, OK, the machines may have the odd error code issue but it does the best wash Ive ever experienced, even with my eco friendly, leaping bunny approved washing tabs. I would still buy it again.
I have had my panasonic for little over a year and just experiencing our second U11 code. Will be calling them on Monday. However, when they came out last year the customer service was excellent. I phoned, didnt have to wait long. Had a slot a day later and the engineer called me when he was 20mins away so I could be home. And, panasonic phoned me the following day to check I was happy. So, OK, the machines may have the odd error code issue but it does the best wash Ive ever experienced, even with my eco friendly, leaping bunny approved washing tabs.
I would still buy it again.
0 replies Thought I'd a 'good' experience to highlight that its not all bad. Bought a Panasonic NA-148VA2 1400 in Sep 2010 from John Lewis. As luck would have it it came up with the H43 error last week, a little over the two year warranty offered by John Lewis. However, I'd bought the machine with the free Panasonic six year warranty and so called them direct. Called them Monday, they sent an engineer Thursday. I'd had the back off myself and could see water leaking from the area of the drum seal. The engineer showed up with a new drum seal unprompted and replaced it in about 30mins. He did report that the machines were a 'nightmare' to work on but from a customer point of view 30 mins is no big deal. Anyway, that cured it and its back to working hard again. Whilst I'm not happy it breaking down in the first place, if it does another 2 years before the next incident I cant complain too much and the service was about as good as it gets. So its not all doom-and-gloom.
Thought I’d a ‘good’ experience to highlight that its not all bad.
Bought a Panasonic NA-148VA2 1400 in Sep 2010 from John Lewis. As luck would have it it came up with the H43 error last week, a little over the two year warranty offered by John Lewis. However, I’d bought the machine with the free Panasonic six year warranty and so called them direct. Called them Monday, they sent an engineer Thursday.
I’d had the back off myself and could see water leaking from the area of the drum seal. The engineer showed up with a new drum seal unprompted and replaced it in about 30mins. He did report that the machines were a ‘nightmare’ to work on but from a customer point of view 30 mins is no big deal. Anyway, that cured it and its back to working hard again.
Whilst I’m not happy it breaking down in the first place, if it does another 2 years before the next incident I cant complain too much and the service was about as good as it gets. So its not all doom-and-gloom.
0 replies Thanks for sharing your experience Elizabeth.
Thanks for sharing your experience Elizabeth.
0 replies Update After contacting bank regarding charge back, because panasonic had sent a repair man over i was not covered, they filled their end of the agreement. As a last ditch attempt, phoned panasonic again told them to remove their machine by 1300 next Tuesday or it was on the tip and I will be taking them to the small claims court. Result their special priory team phoned within 2 hours and offered me a new machine, I refused and they offered a full refund.
Update
After contacting bank regarding charge back, because panasonic had sent a repair man over i was not covered, they filled their end of the agreement. As a last ditch attempt, phoned panasonic again told them to remove their machine by 1300 next Tuesday or it was on the tip and I will be taking them to the small claims court. Result their special priory team phoned within 2 hours and offered me a new machine, I refused and they offered a full refund.
0 replies Bought machine from comet a NA 127VB3WG in January from the start never liked towels made strange banging noises when spinning. November 2012 circuit breaker cut power, washing machine causing fault when spinning cloths. Comet gone bust called panasonic, engineer came 5 days later. Told us motor has gone and the machine needed a new door lock. Week later another engineer came to do repair without the parts, so say they were in his van, but after trying to get access to machine in a small kitchen told us he did not have the right size tool to get motor out. After receiving 5 phone call regarding another job, legg it and told us he would put in an email to panasonic about parts or replacement. Telephoned panasnoic complete joke, reading from a script, drove to out local comet. Spoke to a nice lady they spoke to panasonic cannot get the parts, comet ask them to give us a new washing machine because they were in administration they refused .Comet confirmed panasonic did not have any spare parts. Drove to John Lewis ordered one of their own make with 3 year guarantee. Will now contact bank and see if we can get back any money back through charge back because comet are in administration. A lesson learnt.
Bought machine from comet a NA 127VB3WG in January from the start never liked towels made strange banging noises when spinning. November 2012 circuit breaker cut power, washing machine causing fault when spinning cloths. Comet gone bust called panasonic, engineer came 5 days later. Told us motor has gone and the machine needed a new door lock. Week later another engineer came to do repair without the parts, so say they were in his van, but after trying to get access to machine in a small kitchen told us he did not have the right size tool to get motor out. After receiving 5 phone call regarding another job, legg it and told us he would put in an email to panasonic about parts or replacement.
Telephoned panasnoic complete joke, reading from a script, drove to out local comet. Spoke to a nice lady they spoke to panasonic cannot get the parts, comet ask them to give us a new washing machine because they were in administration they refused .Comet confirmed panasonic did not have any spare parts. Drove to John Lewis ordered one of their own make with 3 year guarantee. Will now contact bank and see if we can get back any money back through charge back because comet are in administration. A lesson learnt.
0 replies I purchased a NA - 168VX2 from john lewis in march 2011 and less than a year on it developed a U11 fault where it was unable to drain. Did the usual checks and there were no blockages. JTM came out 3 times over the space of a month where my machine was out of use. It had a new sensor and pump (which took a very long time to order in). Everything was fine untill a few weeks ago when this error appeared again and would not complete the last rinse and spin cycle. Called john lewis and got another engineer out (not JTM this time). He said it was dirty pipes even though I had checked the waste pipe before making the call. He'd taken the pump apart and said there was nothing wrong with it. Fair enough, if its fixed its fixed! What a surprise, after he left and I attempted to do a wash, same U11. Called john lewis and they put me through to someone to speak about a replacement. Here comes the bombshell....panasonic have no record of me owning one of their machines (I applied for the free extended warrenty and have the documents!!), and they only have one record of a call out (the most recent one). So, john lewis (the call centre is Sitel) said I needed to have written evidence of the previous call outs....I signed and dated papers which were taken by the engineer! I didn't even have to sign anything on the last visit. I would not recommend buying a panasonic washing machine. Takes too long to fix if there is a problem and the customer service is shoddy. I had a much cheaper hotpoint for many years with no probs. Only replaced as this one had a larger capacity and better spin. What a mistake!
I purchased a NA – 168VX2 from john lewis in march 2011 and less than a year on it developed a U11 fault where it was unable to drain. Did the usual checks and there were no blockages. JTM came out 3 times over the space of a month where my machine was out of use. It had a new sensor and pump (which took a very long time to order in). Everything was fine untill a few weeks ago when this error appeared again and would not complete the last rinse and spin cycle. Called john lewis and got another engineer out (not JTM this time). He said it was dirty pipes even though I had checked the waste pipe before making the call. He’d taken the pump apart and said there was nothing wrong with it. Fair enough, if its fixed its fixed! What a surprise, after he left and I attempted to do a wash, same U11. Called john lewis and they put me through to someone to speak about a replacement. Here comes the bombshell….panasonic have no record of me owning one of their machines (I applied for the free extended warrenty and have the documents!!), and they only have one record of a call out (the most recent one). So, john lewis (the call centre is Sitel) said I needed to have written evidence of the previous call outs….I signed and dated papers which were taken by the engineer! I didn’t even have to sign anything on the last visit. I would not recommend buying a panasonic washing machine. Takes too long to fix if there is a problem and the customer service is shoddy. I had a much cheaper hotpoint for many years with no probs. Only replaced as this one had a larger capacity and better spin. What a mistake!
1 reply Our machine (purchased from John Lewis in Reading just over two years ago) has this morning been "written off" following its second main bearing failure in a year. The repairman told me that Panasonic UK no longer replace bearings as it's a four-hour job and totally uneconomical. The repair agent who came the first time swapped out the whole drum and said it had cost over £350! If it hadn't been for its 4-year warranty we'd have been in expensive trouble When new, this was the best, quietest machine we'd ever owned. It washed faster and spun more quietly than anything we'd had before, including Bosch, Zanussi and Indesit. Now, I don't know what to do if we're offered a choice of replacement machine, rather than another Panasonic Any suggestions?
Our machine (purchased from John Lewis in Reading just over two years ago) has this morning been “written off” following its second main bearing failure in a year. The repairman told me that Panasonic UK no longer replace bearings as it’s a four-hour job and totally uneconomical. The repair agent who came the first time swapped out the whole drum and said it had cost over £350! If it hadn’t been for its 4-year warranty we’d have been in expensive trouble
When new, this was the best, quietest machine we’d ever owned. It washed faster and spun more quietly than anything we’d had before, including Bosch, Zanussi and Indesit. Now, I don’t know what to do if we’re offered a choice of replacement machine, rather than another Panasonic Any suggestions?
Likely replying to Peter K
Hello Peter K: I would go for one of the John Lewis own brand washing machines because carrying the John Lewis name should give you extra leeway if by any chance you have big problems plus they come with a 3 year guarantee. They are made by Zanussi (at time of writing) but John Lewis usually get them to put extra features and/or energy savings into them.
0 replies Does anyone know what the fault H 45 means? Is it like the H 43 - a wet sensory somewhere? Please help.
Does anyone know what the fault H 45 means? Is it like the H 43 – a wet sensory somewhere? Please help.
0 replies quite interesting reading some of "these complaints " and the poor repair men have to go and repair the machines "that are very difficult to repair " perhaps they should be doing something different ? fishing?
quite interesting reading some of “these complaints ” and the poor repair men have to go and repair the machines “that are very difficult to repair ” perhaps they should be doing something different ? fishing?
0 replies as i am now reparing panasonic washing machines for a living , and being a washing machine engineer for 35 years i have never worked on such adulterated crap in my life ,poor design, not engineer friendly, very time consuming for fixing simple faults, heavy ,akward, parts very expensive ,and have never met so many unhapply customers in my life,it may keep me in work ,but i may go out of business very soon because the time they take to repair , removing a coin from the drum is a three hour job , then customer refuses to pay you and so do panasonic,do not buy this crap
as i am now reparing panasonic washing machines for a living , and being a washing machine engineer for 35 years
i have never worked on such adulterated crap in my life ,poor design, not engineer friendly, very time consuming for fixing simple faults, heavy ,akward, parts very expensive ,and have never met so many unhapply customers in my life,it may keep me in work ,but i may go out of business very soon because the time they take to repair , removing a coin from the drum is a three hour job , then customer refuses to pay you and so do panasonic,do not buy this crap
0 replies magsjags: I agree about John Lewis customer service being generally far better than most, which is why I promote them so much and use them myself. Washing machines not spinning small loads is actually a common modern-day issue and all washing machines have this "problem" to certain degrees. Some are worse than others, and it's possible your washer does has a fault on the out of balance protection system - or maybe even that Panasonic washing machines are particularly (over?) sensitive. However, it's worth reading the article I wrote on this very topic because depending on the loads in question it's possible a new washing machine could give similar problems - washing machine wont spin just one item or very small loads
magsjags: I agree about John Lewis customer service being generally far better than most, which is why I promote them so much and use them myself.
Washing machines not spinning small loads is actually a common modern-day issue and all washing machines have this “problem” to certain degrees. Some are worse than others, and it’s possible your washer does has a fault on the out of balance protection system – or maybe even that Panasonic washing machines are particularly (over?) sensitive. However, it’s worth reading the article I wrote on this very topic because depending on the loads in question it’s possible a new washing machine could give similar problems – washing machine wont spin just one item or very small loads
0 replies I have recently had to report my panasonic 168vx2 for the 4th/5th time in less than 18 months. Not impressed, it is repeatedly the same U13 code. It seems that the machines are not powerful enough to gather momentum for the spinning. It had been occurring intermittently , I would usually take most of the wash out and spin it as very small loads. (defeats the object of having the bigger drum size) In the end it would not spin at all- the bearings were gone. Very poor service from Panasonic, giving me an appointment for a 2 man call out nearly 3 weeks away! Failure to respond to calls even when they committed to ring me back on the same day. I got John Lewis involved and they eventually sorted it that the machine be returned and money credited. I will not choose another Panasonic but will buy again from JL- excellent customer service
I have recently had to report my panasonic 168vx2 for the 4th/5th time in less than 18 months. Not impressed, it is repeatedly the same U13 code. It seems that the machines are not powerful enough to gather momentum for the spinning. It had been occurring intermittently , I would usually take most of the wash out and spin it as very small loads. (defeats the object of having the bigger drum size) In the end it would not spin at all- the bearings were gone. Very poor service from Panasonic, giving me an appointment for a 2 man call out nearly 3 weeks away!
Failure to respond to calls even when they committed to ring me back on the same day. I got John Lewis involved and they eventually sorted it that the machine be returned and money credited. I will not choose another Panasonic but will buy again from JL- excellent customer service
0 replies On a more informative post I have managed to track down some error codes for Panasonic washers !!!!!!!!!!!!! These are courtesy of ukwhitegoods.co.uk but thought I would re-post here to 'widen the audience' - I was pleased to stumble across them and i'm sure others will also find them useful... U11 The washing machine cannot drain Check that filter is not blocked or obstructed Check drain hose is clear of any blockage or obstruction Check wiring to drain pump Check drain pump is not defective Check level sensor or switch Check wiring to level sensor U12 The door is being read as being open Check door is closed Check doorlatch etc. Check door lock Check wiring Check electronic controller U13 An unbalanced load is detected in the washing machine Check load, sort and restart spin Check belt if fault persists Check motor if fault persists U14 Washing machine fails to fill in twenty minutes Check mains water pressure Check inlet hoses for kinks Check inlet filter Check water inlet valve Pressure switch fault Wiring fault U18 Pump or drain filter detected as being not secure Check that filter is secure Check wiring if fault persists H01 Pressure sensor or level switch detected as out of range Check wiring to level sensor Check pressure switch is not defective Replace pressure sensor Replace main power PCB H04 Short circuit detected on the power relay of the main electronic control board Check wiring Replace electronic control PCB H05 Data not being saved to the electronic controller Check wiring Replace electronic control PCB Check mode B in service mode H07 Tacho generator signal from motor irregular or out of range Check wiring to motor tacho Check motor wiring Replace motor Replace electronic control PCB H09 Communication error between power and display electronic cards Check wiring between the electronic cards Check electronic controllers After this there is no option but to replace either or both cards as it is not possible to acertain which one is faulty on these washing machines. H17 Wash thermistor or temperature sensor detected abnormal signal or out of range Check wiring to temperature sensor Check temperature sensor Replace temperature sensor H18 Motor thermistor sensor detected abnormal signal or out of range Check motor connections Replace motor H21 Pressure sensor detects water level increasing from water supply Clean the diaphram of water inlet valve Check inlet valve operation Repalce water inlet valve H23 Heater relay on main control PCB detected abnormal or out of range Check electronic controller Replace main power electronic card H25 Motor error detected Check wiring to main motor Replace motor Replace power electronic card if problem persists H27 Door lock on the washing machine will not engage with latch in place Check wiring to door lock Check door lock Replace door lock Replace main electronic controller if problem persists H29 Cooling fan detected as running slow, abnormal, short or open circuit Check wiring and connector to the cooling fan Replace cooling fan Replace main electronic controller if problem persists H41 During spoin data cannot be obtained from 3D sensor Check wiring to 3D sensor Replace 3D sensor Replace main electronic controller if problem persists H43 Leak detected to base of the washing machine Check for source of the leak H46 Abnormal signal from leak detector in base of the washing machine Check wiring to sensor Check sensor Replace main electronic controller is advice from Panasonic H52 Too high input voltage detected Check mains electricity supply as this is caused by abnormal mains H53 Too low voltage input detected Check mains electricity supply as this is caused by abnormal mains H55 Abnormal current detected while the main motor is rotating Replace main drive motor
On a more informative post I have managed to track down some error codes for Panasonic washers !!!!!!!!!!!!!
These are courtesy of ukwhitegoods.co.uk but thought I would re-post here to ‘widen the audience’ – I was pleased to stumble across them and i’m sure others will also find them useful…
U11
The washing machine cannot drain
Check that filter is not blocked or obstructed
Check drain hose is clear of any blockage or obstruction
Check wiring to drain pump
Check drain pump is not defective
Check level sensor or switch
Check wiring to level sensor
U12
The door is being read as being open
Check door is closed
Check doorlatch etc.
Check door lock
Check wiring
Check electronic controller
U13
An unbalanced load is detected in the washing machine
Check load, sort and restart spin
Check belt if fault persists
Check motor if fault persists
U14
Washing machine fails to fill in twenty minutes
Check mains water pressure
Check inlet hoses for kinks
Check inlet filter
Check water inlet valve
Pressure switch fault
Wiring fault
U18
Pump or drain filter detected as being not secure
Check that filter is secure
Check wiring if fault persists
H01
Pressure sensor or level switch detected as out of range
Check wiring to level sensor
Check pressure switch is not defective
Replace pressure sensor
Replace main power PCB
H04
Short circuit detected on the power relay of the main electronic control board
Check wiring
Replace electronic control PCB
H05
Data not being saved to the electronic controller
Check wiring
Replace electronic control PCB
Check mode B in service mode
H07
Tacho generator signal from motor irregular or out of range
Check wiring to motor tacho
Check motor wiring
Replace motor
Replace electronic control PCB
H09
Communication error between power and display electronic cards
Check wiring between the electronic cards
Check electronic controllers
After this there is no option but to replace either or both cards as it is not possible to acertain which one is faulty on these washing machines.
H17
Wash thermistor or temperature sensor detected abnormal signal or out of range
Check wiring to temperature sensor
Check temperature sensor
Replace temperature sensor
H18
Motor thermistor sensor detected abnormal signal or out of range
Check motor connections
Replace motor
H21
Pressure sensor detects water level increasing from water supply
Clean the diaphram of water inlet valve
Check inlet valve operation
Repalce water inlet valve
H23
Heater relay on main control PCB detected abnormal or out of range
Check electronic controller
Replace main power electronic card
H25
Motor error detected
Check wiring to main motor
Replace motor
Replace power electronic card if problem persists
H27
Door lock on the washing machine will not engage with latch in place
Check wiring to door lock
Check door lock
Replace door lock
Replace main electronic controller if problem persists
H29
Cooling fan detected as running slow, abnormal, short or open circuit
Check wiring and connector to the cooling fan
Replace cooling fan
Replace main electronic controller if problem persists
H41
During spoin data cannot be obtained from 3D sensor
Check wiring to 3D sensor
Replace 3D sensor
Replace main electronic controller if problem persists
H43
Leak detected to base of the washing machine
Check for source of the leak
H46
Abnormal signal from leak detector in base of the washing machine
Check wiring to sensor
Check sensor
Replace main electronic controller is advice from Panasonic
H52
Too high input voltage detected
Check mains electricity supply as this is caused by abnormal mains
H53
Too low voltage input detected
Check mains electricity supply as this is caused by abnormal mains
H55
Abnormal current detected while the main motor is rotating
Replace main drive motor
0 replies I have washing machine and appliance consumer advice and links
2 replies I suggest people read information on consumers' rights and Acts. This info certainly helped me when I recently had problems with my Panasonic Washing Machine,
I suggest people read information on consumers’ rights and Acts. This info certainly helped me when I recently had problems with my Panasonic Washing Machine,
Likely replying to All washed up
Hi all, Read almost all comments. In short, this machine is CRAP, to say the least. By the way, I am from Malaysia, but have lived in the UK in the 90’s. Worst in Malaysia as the retailer would not want to know anything when the machines broke down. It would be very kind of them if they called and informed the manufacturer/service people (they dont have service engineers here). In short, I have to call the manufacturer’s service office and ask for helps. And guess what, they dont know crap about the machines they are selling, let alone solve my washing machine problem. I have in the past used many machines, the last one was Electrolux which I bought in 1996 and lasted til 2009. Then it started to go. Then I decide to buy this CRAP machine to replace my old trusty Lux. The CRAP machine just sit in the kitchen doing nothing now. It been there for like 9 months already. I have repaired the old Lux by myself and using that ever since this CRAP machine broke down. It only lasted a year or so. In Malaysia this machine is quite expensive, Malaysian Dollar RM2400 (consider an average salary for household of about RM1500 per month, this machine is expensive/luxury). Only lasted for about a year or so. I dont know what to do to it now. It keep giving Error Code H07. Will never buy this brand again, for anything at all….
Likely replying to zulkifli rashid
Hi Zulkifli,
H07 is a motor related fault, that in 99% of cases comes back to the PCB, the motors are pretty reliable to be honest and haven’t had a dead one yet, so unless it’s a wiring fault between the PCB and the motor, it’s pretty sure bet that it’s going to be the PCB at fault…which are NOT available to purchase from Panasonic, so therefore is most likely scrap…..You don’t always get what you pay for….personally I would recommend a Bosch machine for reliability and spares backup service….To be honest ALL machines now are not of the same quality they were years ago – they are all just made to a price (some more than others though..)
Hope this helps….Dave
0 replies I was delivered a 148VG3WGB this morning and did the test wash as recommended. Half way through the 1 st wash I got a error code H43. Contacted Panasonic as the booklet says they are open on Saturdays, but no answer. The website says they are shut on Saturdays. Phoned Comets Helpline at 10pence a minute and after a long wait I was told that its a products fault and they have to exchange the product. After spending a good while to install and set it up, I now have to go through the same process wasting time again. Comets refused to install this despite it delivering a faulty product. The are however quick to sell their extended warranties to get our money. Big frauds. As for Panasonic its a big let down for such a reputed company. Very very dissapointed and frustrated.
I was delivered a 148VG3WGB this morning and did the test wash as recommended. Half way through the 1 st wash I got a error code H43. Contacted Panasonic as the booklet says they are open on Saturdays, but no answer. The website says they are shut on Saturdays.
Phoned Comets Helpline at 10pence a minute and after a long wait I was told that its a products fault and they have to exchange the product. After spending a good while to install and set it up, I now have to go through the same process wasting time again. Comets refused to install this despite it delivering a faulty product.
The are however quick to sell their extended warranties to get our money. Big frauds. As for Panasonic its a big let down for such a reputed company. Very very dissapointed and frustrated.
0 replies I've never heard of anyone comparing Panasonic to Miele Terry. As you say they are just in the same build class as all the others in their price range.
I’ve never heard of anyone comparing Panasonic to Miele Terry. As you say they are just in the same build class as all the others in their price range.
0 replies Panasonic viewed their machines as competitors to Miele. We viewed them as up against Bosch and LG. If they are now selling them at less than £400 I think that confirms our original take on them. Astroboy may consider getting a cheap Beko and keep in store for use while he waits for his Panasonic to be repaired, when it goes wrong.
Panasonic viewed their machines as competitors to Miele. We viewed them as up against Bosch and LG. If they are now selling them at less than £400 I think that confirms our original take on them. Astroboy may consider getting a cheap Beko and keep in store for use while he waits for his Panasonic to be repaired, when it goes wrong.
1 reply I'm very interested in how this will all pan out. I've ordered a 127VB3WGB from Comet earlier this evening. I've also got a voucher that is apparently covering 5 years parts and labour warranty for the machine. Paid £399 for it from Comet. Have I done the right thing buying this machine or should I gone cheaper and bought a beko....
I’m very interested in how this will all pan out.
I’ve ordered a 127VB3WGB from Comet earlier this evening.
I’ve also got a voucher that is apparently covering 5 years parts and labour warranty for the machine.
Paid £399 for it from Comet.
Have I done the right thing buying this machine or should I gone cheaper and bought a beko….
0 replies I am amused to see that a Panasonic washing machine has come out top in an energy efficiency test. I can only presume that all their down time is taken into account.
I am amused to see that a Panasonic washing machine has come out top in an energy efficiency test. I can only presume that all their down time is taken into account.
0 replies We used to do appliance repairs for D&G, Connect, N.E.S.N. and JTM Services, and I know who we used to have the most problems with. (See the last comment). I was once sent to the John Lewis store in Reading to look at a faulty Panasonic machine. But it was 6 miles away in their main distribution centre at Theale. So I went to Theale, diagnosed the problem and ordered a new door catch. The part took over 3 weeks to arrive.When I went to fit it I was informed that another repair company had turned up the day before, with the correct part, and the now repaired machine had gone back into store. I never did get paid for that 'job'. Unfortunately my work college contracted cancer and died 6 months later. The company folded and all the above warranty companies lost one of their top agents. It appears, from quite a few of the comments that have gone before, that standards have slipped somewhat, and probably will continue to do so as more and more of us oldies reach retirement and disappear.
We used to do appliance repairs for D&G, Connect, N.E.S.N. and JTM Services, and I know who we used to have the most problems with. (See the last comment). I was once sent to the John Lewis store in Reading to look at a faulty Panasonic machine. But it was 6 miles away in their main distribution centre at Theale. So I went to Theale, diagnosed the problem and ordered a new door catch. The part took over 3 weeks to arrive.When I went to fit it I was informed that another repair company had turned up the day before, with the correct part, and the now repaired machine had gone back into store. I never did get paid for that ‘job’. Unfortunately my work college contracted cancer and died 6 months later. The company folded and all the above warranty companies lost one of their top agents. It appears, from quite a few of the comments that have gone before, that standards have slipped somewhat, and probably will continue to do so as more and more of us oldies reach retirement and disappear.
1 reply Firstly, I don't think it's really that fair to imply that Panasonic are new to manufacturing washing machines as they have been making washers for decades in the far east and are a major player in that field out there. In fact, they probably have a lot more history than many established European brands. That aside, my further admiration of them is pretty limited but not due to their overall machine performance... ...almost a year ago we bought a NA-168VX2 from John Lewis and in fairness it has been working absolutely fine and still is apart from during the final spin it has become excessively noisy and has developed a clunking sort of banging noise which shakes the machine to the point that the detergent tray rattles badly inside its housing. Not the ultra quiet machine I had been lead believe. Consequently I raised a fault call with Panasonic. Now the big problem with logging a fault call with Panasonic is that they sub out their repairs to a company called JTM, who, in turn, then sub it out to local independent repair men. The first time I logged a call with JTM they lost our details, which I found out after calling them back to chase it. Then the second call the engineer called us in the morning of the appointment as expected and said that he'd arrive between 1 and 5pm. That was the last that we heard of him and my wife wasted her time waiting in all afternoon without even a call from anyone. In our case the third party repair was to have been carried out by "0800 Repair" who apparently are a franchise and turn up in a yellow van with a giant screwdriver on its roof. After all of that obviously my confidence in Panasonic's warranty and support had rapidly hit rock bottom and the great idea of having a 6 year warranty with them felt like it's not really worth the paper that it's written on if any support isn't actually going to be forthcoming. I work as a support engineer myself and in my field we work by SLA's and response times, ie, a server outage may have a 20 minute response time. When domestic customer warranties don't live by those sort of rules then you rely on them just being reliable and competent - which in my experience Panasonic's support is neither. After a series of phone calls kicking down doors at John Lewis by starting at their customer care call centre and ending with a director at their head office, they're going to replace the machine and we're going back to a Bosch. Although Bosch machines may not be perfect and it will cost me an extra £120 and will only have a 2 year warranty, at least I know that they're reliable enough and provide a dependable in-house support service that can be counted on. In summary, my experience has been that they make good machines which are let down badly by the backup of exceptionally poor if not non-existent support. Because of that, unless they up their warranty game significantly I would not consider either buying a Panasonic washing machine again or recommending them.
Firstly, I don’t think it’s really that fair to imply that Panasonic are new to manufacturing washing machines as they have been making washers for decades in the far east and are a major player in that field out there. In fact, they probably have a lot more history than many established European brands. That aside, my further admiration of them is pretty limited but not due to their overall machine performance…
…almost a year ago we bought a NA-168VX2 from John Lewis and in fairness it has been working absolutely fine and still is apart from during the final spin it has become excessively noisy and has developed a clunking sort of banging noise which shakes the machine to the point that the detergent tray rattles badly inside its housing. Not the ultra quiet machine I had been lead believe. Consequently I raised a fault call with Panasonic.
Now the big problem with logging a fault call with Panasonic is that they sub out their repairs to a company called JTM, who, in turn, then sub it out to local independent repair men. The first time I logged a call with JTM they lost our details, which I found out after calling them back to chase it. Then the second call the engineer called us in the morning of the appointment as expected and said that he’d arrive between 1 and 5pm. That was the last that we heard of him and my wife wasted her time waiting in all afternoon without even a call from anyone. In our case the third party repair was to have been carried out by “0800 Repair” who apparently are a franchise and turn up in a yellow van with a giant screwdriver on its roof.
After all of that obviously my confidence in Panasonic’s warranty and support had rapidly hit rock bottom and the great idea of having a 6 year warranty with them felt like it’s not really worth the paper that it’s written on if any support isn’t actually going to be forthcoming. I work as a support engineer myself and in my field we work by SLA’s and response times, ie, a server outage may have a 20 minute response time. When domestic customer warranties don’t live by those sort of rules then you rely on them just being reliable and competent – which in my experience Panasonic’s support is neither.
After a series of phone calls kicking down doors at John Lewis by starting at their customer care call centre and ending with a director at their head office, they’re going to replace the machine and we’re going back to a Bosch. Although Bosch machines may not be perfect and it will cost me an extra £120 and will only have a 2 year warranty, at least I know that they’re reliable enough and provide a dependable in-house support service that can be counted on.
In summary, my experience has been that they make good machines which are let down badly by the backup of exceptionally poor if not non-existent support. Because of that, unless they up their warranty game significantly I would not consider either buying a Panasonic washing machine again or recommending them.
Likely replying to Warranty, what warranty?!
Hello Warranty, what warranty? I’ve only said they are new in the UK market. “In the UK their washing machines were only launched in 2009”. I expect their aftersales are much better in their native countries and the far east, but that counts for little here :)
Your summary pretty much paraphrases what I say in my article.
0 replies The new machine arrived a day early at the retailers request. The machine has now completed four washes. However the pipe that came with the new machine connecting the mains water to the back of the machine was faulty and leaked! Thank goodness we still had an old pipe that belonged to the Bosch Machine we had before purchasing the first (and last) Panasonic Washer.
The new machine arrived a day early at the retailers request. The machine has now completed four washes. However the pipe that came with the new machine connecting the mains water to the back of the machine was faulty and leaked! Thank goodness we still had an old pipe that belonged to the Bosch Machine we had before purchasing the first (and last) Panasonic Washer.
0 replies Just heard from the retailers that the broken machine is to be replaced with a new one on Friday. I hope the second one will have a better track record.
Just heard from the retailers that the broken machine is to be replaced with a new one on Friday. I hope the second one will have a better track record.
0 replies We do not know how many appliances Panasonic have actually sold in total, and we only ever hear about the faulty ones. I assume there are satisfied customers out there who, of course, we will never hear from. But these machines have started to appear on ebay as 'spares or repair', usually with an unrealistically high asking price. I have noticed quite a few with drum bearing failure. While bearings should be of a standard size, any seals are probably not. Has anyone had any success with these??
We do not know how many appliances Panasonic have actually sold in total, and we only ever hear about the faulty ones. I assume there are satisfied customers out there who, of course, we will never hear from. But these machines have started to appear on ebay as ‘spares or repair’, usually with an unrealistically high asking price. I have noticed quite a few with drum bearing failure. While bearings should be of a standard size, any seals are probably not. Has anyone had any success with these??
1 reply You should have read my previous experiance regarding service and parts. How a company like Panasonic can let this go on is beyond me The only thing that customers can do is beware and show their thoughts with their refusal to buy
You should have read my previous experiance regarding service and parts.
How a company like Panasonic can let this go on is beyond me
The only thing that customers can do is beware and show their thoughts with their refusal to buy
Likely replying to Jake
Hi Jake: I’m trying to be open minded about it, and not assume (as Terry D) said that several people complaining about something proves anything definitive.
But as I’ve said before in my original article, it’s beyond me why brown goods giants like Panasonic, with a fantastic reputation for quality, would want to become embroiled in white goods – especially washing machines – which are completely different in every way. Weight and size (for overseas shipping) is massive in comparison, reliability and aftersales are completely different and far more demanding and expensive to deal with. Plus the white goods product is totally un-sexy so to speak. People hate replacing them and they are usually a distress purchase. Then there’s the saturation in the market, with many well established washing machine brands well embedded in the UK. I don’t see the point in getting involved unless you are selling more reliable and longer lasting appliances. Simply selling very similar washing machines with the Panasonic name on isn’t good enough.
For a Panasonic washing machine to have the same respect as a Panasonic TV or DVD player it has got to be more reliable than Hoover, Hotpoint, Candy, Indesit, Bosch and AEG etc. and I don’t think they are. They are the same or less, so what is the advantage of the Panasonic name?
0 replies The letter conveys good intentions though if things don't go well such a letter can be a little inappropriate and provoke an unintended reaction. I don't know if 3 weeks waiting for a pcb is normal with Panasonic washing machines, all parts, especially ones not commonly used can sometimes have to be ordered and can take a few weeks to come through. However, Panasonic do seem to have a reputation for being difficult to get parts for.
The letter conveys good intentions though if things don’t go well such a letter can be a little inappropriate and provoke an unintended reaction. I don’t know if 3 weeks waiting for a pcb is normal with Panasonic washing machines, all parts, especially ones not commonly used can sometimes have to be ordered and can take a few weeks to come through. However, Panasonic do seem to have a reputation for being difficult to get parts for.
0 replies I purchased a Panasonic NA-147VB3 in November 2011. All went well until the first week in January 2012. I contacted the retailers who notified the manufacturers. After almost three weeks, the engineer fitted a replacement circuit board. The reason for the delay was a lack of parts. The machine broke down again on January 11th! After removing sopping wet clothes out of the drum and mopping up water from the floor, I contacted the retailers again. I have spent today, the first day of my week's holiday, waiting for phone-calls. The retailer have informed me that they hope this second malfunction can be repaired in a 'reasonable' time. However, they would not say what they considered a 'reasonable' time to be! It is with wry humour that I re-read the letter received from the retailers on the purchase of the appliance stating, ' We hope we have satisfied your requirements and that we have done so in a professional courteous manner so you feel happy to visit us again in the future, and are able to recommend us to others in the knowledge that our quality, service and value are more than comparable'. To date, I have been less than impressed with the quality of my Panasonic Washing Machine purchased from Oldrids of Boston Lincolnshire.
I purchased a Panasonic NA-147VB3 in November 2011. All went well until the first week in January 2012. I contacted the retailers who notified the manufacturers. After almost three weeks, the engineer fitted a replacement circuit board. The reason for the delay was a lack of parts. The machine broke down again on January 11th! After removing sopping wet clothes out of the drum and mopping up water from the floor, I contacted the retailers again.
I have spent today, the first day of my week’s holiday, waiting for phone-calls. The retailer have informed me that they hope this second malfunction can be repaired in a ‘reasonable’ time. However, they would not say what they considered a ‘reasonable’ time to be!
It is with wry humour that I re-read the letter received from the retailers on the purchase of the appliance stating, ‘ We hope we have satisfied your requirements and that we have done so in a professional courteous manner so you feel happy to visit us again in the future, and are able to recommend us to others in the knowledge that our quality, service and value are more than comparable’.
To date, I have been less than impressed with the quality of my Panasonic Washing Machine purchased from Oldrids of Boston Lincolnshire.
0 replies Frankly, my opinion on all the brown goods manufacturers who decided brown goods aren't enough and want to be big in white goods too, is that there were already plenty of well established brands of washing machine and white goods appliances on the market. Therefore, if more brands come onto the market they need to be different enough to justify their existence. Most appear to have decided to try the innovation club, but I believe they need to be more reliable than existing brands and/or have a superior aftersales service so that people can buy with confidence knowing they should last a reasonable time and be easily repairable. Sadly they have the innovation but not the backup of good aftersales. As discussed before, many independent repairers don't repair them because it's too difficult to get parts and technical information and they don't appear to have well established, strong in guarantee service networks.
Frankly, my opinion on all the brown goods manufacturers who decided brown goods aren’t enough and want to be big in white goods too, is that there were already plenty of well established brands of washing machine and white goods appliances on the market. Therefore, if more brands come onto the market they need to be different enough to justify their existence.
Most appear to have decided to try the innovation club, but I believe they need to be more reliable than existing brands and/or have a superior aftersales service so that people can buy with confidence knowing they should last a reasonable time and be easily repairable. Sadly they have the innovation but not the backup of good aftersales. As discussed before, many independent repairers don’t repair them because it’s too difficult to get parts and technical information and they don’t appear to have well established, strong in guarantee service networks.
0 replies I am considering buying this model and wondered if some of the previous problems may have been resolved by now. Does anyone have any information on this model please.
I am considering buying this model and wondered if some of the previous problems may have been resolved by now. Does anyone have any information on this model please.
0 replies worried owner mrs kemp: Under the sale of goods act, they must fix your machine within a reasonable length of time otherwise I would request a refund or replacement.
worried owner mrs kemp: Under the sale of goods act, they must fix your machine within a reasonable length of time otherwise I would request a refund or replacement.
0 replies I bought my panasonic NA16VX1WGB from John Lewis, It cost £529, it lasted me nearly 2 years,then just before the holidays packed up with an H43 code. The engineer from panasonic came and said it was leaking badly from the drum as he watched. He said that I needed a new one. The John Lewis lady phoned to say that Panasonic were sending an engineer to fix it, not replace it. I have been without a machine since the middle of Dec. After reading other owners comments I am not very confident about the situation. I was advised to buy this machine by a John Lewis salesman, I AM NOW WISHING I HADN'T and had gone with another Siemans, my last one was 15years old. This was not a cheap machine, I EXPECTED BETTER from both J.Lewis and Panasonic. By way of clarification, I did not mean to imply that John Lewis were slow in reacting to the problem as we did not inform them until the 3rd January, I am not complaining about the timing, just about my concerns after reading others poor reviews of the same washing machine. My complaint is with John Lewis advice and with Panasonics machine.
I bought my panasonic NA16VX1WGB from John Lewis, It cost £529, it lasted me nearly 2 years,then just before the holidays packed up with an H43 code. The engineer from panasonic came and said it was leaking badly from the drum as he watched. He said that I needed a new one. The John Lewis lady phoned to say that Panasonic were sending an engineer to fix it, not replace it. I have been without a machine since the middle of Dec. After reading other owners comments I am not very confident about the situation. I was advised to buy this machine by a John Lewis salesman, I AM NOW WISHING I HADN’T and had gone with another Siemans, my last one was 15years old. This was not a cheap machine, I EXPECTED BETTER from both J.Lewis and Panasonic.
By way of clarification, I did not mean to imply that John Lewis were slow in reacting to the problem as we did not inform them until the 3rd January, I am not complaining about the timing, just about my concerns after reading others poor reviews of the same washing machine. My complaint is with John Lewis advice and with Panasonics machine.
0 replies Thanks for your contribution Terry and Davy Boy, it's good to get views from people in the trade too.
Thanks for your contribution Terry and Davy Boy, it’s good to get views from people in the trade too.
0 replies I think Davey Boys comments says it all. When we were shown these machines at Panasonics in Bracknell the machines were stripped down to a point where the drum could be removed. We naturally then asked about bearings/seal removal and replacement. We were told that the bearing assy had a design life of 'x' hours and would never need replacing, so dont worry about them. We told them that THEY should be concerned about them. Obviously they chose to ignore us. My own thoughts on this is that manufacturers in the far east are not aware of the hard water conditions in large parts of this country. When we first started having problems with bearing failures on LG washing machines we were supplied with complete tub assemblies. This did not last very long as they soon found out how expensive this solution was and we were soon supplied with the rear tub shells only. Of course, until you stripped the machine you did not know whether you needed the drum cross-piece as well. To back up this theory I remember being told by Fisher & Pykel that all southern hemisphere countries have soft water, which caught them out with their original dishdrawers.
I think Davey Boys comments says it all. When we were shown these machines at Panasonics in Bracknell the machines were stripped down to a point where the drum could be removed. We naturally then asked about bearings/seal removal and replacement. We were told that the bearing assy had a design life of ‘x’ hours and would never need replacing, so dont worry about them. We told them that THEY should be concerned about them. Obviously they chose to ignore us.
My own thoughts on this is that manufacturers in the far east are not aware of the hard water conditions in large parts of this country. When we first started having problems with bearing failures on LG washing machines we were supplied with complete tub assemblies. This did not last very long as they soon found out how expensive this solution was and we were soon supplied with the rear tub shells only. Of course, until you stripped the machine you did not know whether you needed the drum cross-piece as well.
To back up this theory I remember being told by Fisher & Pykel that all southern hemisphere countries have soft water, which caught them out with their original dishdrawers.
0 replies I have worked on a number of Panasonic machines (as an independant) and am not overly impressed.. The tubs are NOT sealed, but it is a major task to get the drum out of the cabinet - everything does come apart but is very time consuming and awkward to get to a lot of things. As the drum is not sealed it is possible to strip it, but due to virtually no-one stocking spares for these then it's a bit of a pointless exercise as even though the bearings will most likely be standard bearings I can imagine the seals will be specials that are not available - unless they come out OK and can be re-used I have come across quite a lot of these with noisy / siezed bearings around 1-2 years old - usually the 8kg 1600 spin ones are the worst for this..but not tackled any bearing jobs yet - simply recommended they purchase a new machine... The machines on a whole are well made and fairly rubust, but are let down by the lack of service back up, no fault codes from the manufacturer or any techical back up - there are a lack of spares available (as in I can't get any pattern parts - only very expensive, limited genuine parts online) which often makes repairs uneconomically viable due to cost and availability of parts - also there are only certain parts available - not everything is listed. The other 'design faults' on these are - there is poor access into the machine - especially to change the door gasket - that is a very common problem in not very old machines or to access the door lock parts that are also very flimsy - especially in customers small kitchens - they are very time consuming to work on (time is money to an engineer) - especially as you have to often 'guess' the fault code. Generally speaking the fault codes beginning with 'U' are user errors - lack of water, blocked pipe, front filter not screwed in properly etc. and the 'H' faults are generally faults which may or may not be repairable by an engineer - H43 being the most common one - which is (as previously mentioned) the flood sensor in the base of the machine - indicating there is a leak somewhere internally (normally the door gasket with a small hole in ) so closes the machine down until it's been dried up and the leak found & recified. The other main fundemental floor in the design of these that I've found is that they suffer from 'blocked sumps' - the sump on these is made of plastic (on the bottom of the drum where the plunger goes into) - unfortunately these are glued onto the drum and are virtually impossible to remove without breaking them (and you can't buy new ones) - on the ones I've managed to remove I've been able to get socks and tea towels out from inside the drum to sump hole where they have become firmly lodged - if you empty the water out of the machine and it only removes a little of the water from the drum at a time, the filter and internal pipes are clear, the plunger assembly is removed from the sump (the motors on these go wrong as well) and it still doesn't empty properly - then there is a 99% chance that the sump is blocked and it's time for a new washer (unless you are lucky enough to break the seal on the glue, remove the sump, clear the blockage and re-glue it back in place) - not a job for the DITY-er and is only done on the understanding that if it breakes then the washer needs replacing (unless someone can source parts somewhere). I would not personally recommend a Panasonic washer to anyone on the basis of when it goes wrong (which it will - eventually) it is not easily repairable- if at all - if Panasonic want their machines to be recommended by engineers it will need to be a lot more helpful to the service industry, providing fault codes, technical advice and release copyright on the spares so can be marketed by aftermarket companies at sensible prices (£46.99 for door lock is VERY expensive - compared to one for a Hotpoint WF machine at around £6) or bring their spares prices down and let independant retailers stock them Having said all of this when the machines are working they are very good washers and if they could sort a few design hiccups (they may have on the new mk III machines - not worked on these yet) and sort the service side out then i'm sure they could compete much more widely on the market with more independant retailers wishing to stock the machines & parts (as of now no-one I know will touch them with a bargepole - as the poor aftermarket (both in & out of warranty) leaves them with frustrated costomers and can well do without the hassle) I hope these comments are useful - and are my personal opinions and findings and are meant for information only
I have worked on a number of Panasonic machines (as an independant) and am not overly impressed..
The tubs are NOT sealed, but it is a major task to get the drum out of the cabinet – everything does come apart but is very time consuming and awkward to get to a lot of things.
As the drum is not sealed it is possible to strip it, but due to virtually no-one stocking spares for these then it’s a bit of a pointless exercise as even though the bearings will most likely be standard bearings I can imagine the seals will be specials that are not available – unless they come out OK and can be re-used
I have come across quite a lot of these with noisy / siezed bearings around 1-2 years old – usually the 8kg 1600 spin ones are the worst for this..but not tackled any bearing jobs yet – simply recommended they purchase a new machine…
The machines on a whole are well made and fairly rubust, but are let down by the lack of service back up, no fault codes from the manufacturer or any techical back up – there are a lack of spares available (as in I can’t get any pattern parts – only very expensive, limited genuine parts online) which often makes repairs uneconomically viable due to cost and availability of parts – also there are only certain parts available – not everything is listed.
The other ‘design faults’ on these are – there is poor access into the machine – especially to change the door gasket – that is a very common problem in not very old machines or to access the door lock parts that are also very flimsy – especially in customers small kitchens – they are very time consuming to work on (time is money to an engineer) – especially as you have to often ‘guess’ the fault code.
Generally speaking the fault codes beginning with ‘U’ are user errors – lack of water, blocked pipe, front filter not screwed in properly etc. and the ‘H’ faults are generally faults which may or may not be repairable by an engineer – H43 being the most common one – which is (as previously mentioned) the flood sensor in the base of the machine – indicating there is a leak somewhere internally (normally the door gasket with a small hole in ) so closes the machine down until it’s been dried up and the leak found & recified.
The other main fundemental floor in the design of these that I’ve found is that they suffer from ‘blocked sumps’ – the sump on these is made of plastic (on the bottom of the drum where the plunger goes into) – unfortunately these are glued onto the drum and are virtually impossible to remove without breaking them (and you can’t buy new ones) – on the ones I’ve managed to remove I’ve been able to get socks and tea towels out from inside the drum to sump hole where they have become firmly lodged – if you empty the water out of the machine and it only removes a little of the water from the drum at a time, the filter and internal pipes are clear, the plunger assembly is removed from the sump (the motors on these go wrong as well) and it still doesn’t empty properly – then there is a 99% chance that the sump is blocked and it’s time for a new washer (unless you are lucky enough to break the seal on the glue, remove the sump, clear the blockage and re-glue it back in place) – not a job for the DITY-er and is only done on the understanding that if it breakes then the washer needs replacing (unless someone can source parts somewhere).
I would not personally recommend a Panasonic washer to anyone on the basis of when it goes wrong (which it will – eventually) it is not easily repairable- if at all – if Panasonic want their machines to be recommended by engineers it will need to be a lot more helpful to the service industry, providing fault codes, technical advice and release copyright on the spares so can be marketed by aftermarket companies at sensible prices (£46.99 for door lock is VERY expensive – compared to one for a Hotpoint WF machine at around £6) or bring their spares prices down and let independant retailers stock them
Having said all of this when the machines are working they are very good washers and if they could sort a few design hiccups (they may have on the new mk III machines – not worked on these yet) and sort the service side out then i’m sure they could compete much more widely on the market with more independant retailers wishing to stock the machines & parts (as of now no-one I know will touch them with a bargepole – as the poor aftermarket (both in & out of warranty) leaves them with frustrated costomers and can well do without the hassle)
I hope these comments are useful – and are my personal opinions and findings and are meant for information only
0 replies Sorry, I don't know if it's a sealed tub or not Marsh. I personally am not aware of the USP of Panasonic washing machines other than the good name of Panasonic brown goods. I don't expect they will be any worse than say AEG, but it does appear they have less of an aftersales service network including parts and technical support availability.
Sorry, I don’t know if it’s a sealed tub or not Marsh. I personally am not aware of the USP of Panasonic washing machines other than the good name of Panasonic brown goods. I don’t expect they will be any worse than say AEG, but it does appear they have less of an aftersales service network including parts and technical support availability.
0 replies We've had the joys of an internal water leak (code not in operating instructions) for the last two weeks...first occurring one month out of warranty! Most repair companies seemingly don't want to touch them, due to the part acquisition challenges. Guessing it's only a simple seal / drum seal failure, but this shouldn't happen on a £500 machine so quickly. Very disappointed.
We’ve had the joys of an internal water leak (code not in operating instructions) for the last two weeks…first occurring one month out of warranty! Most repair companies seemingly don’t want to touch them, due to the part acquisition challenges. Guessing it’s only a simple seal / drum seal failure, but this shouldn’t happen on a £500 machine so quickly. Very disappointed.
0 replies Washerhelp what are your thoughts on the 148VG3WGB? Is it sealed tub?
Washerhelp what are your thoughts on the 148VG3WGB?
Is it sealed tub?
0 replies Sparky... This model is my favourite to sell, with the spec it has it stands as a very good machine, against the sam spec siemens amchines it is a lot less, low energy and water consumption, good 3d sensor for shortening or lengthing wash cycles, very quite too with its brushless motor with 10 year warranty on that. After reading this forum, if it doesnt go wrong it should save you a lot of money for many years to com. its the one i like to sell the most when people are looking at the top half of the market. Hope I've helped.
Sparky… This model is my favourite to sell, with the spec it has it stands as a very good machine, against the sam spec siemens amchines it is a lot less, low energy and water consumption, good 3d sensor for shortening or lengthing wash cycles, very quite too with its brushless motor with 10 year warranty on that. After reading this forum, if it doesnt go wrong it should save you a lot of money for many years to com. its the one i like to sell the most when people are looking at the top half of the market. Hope I’ve helped.
0 replies Any views on the 148VG3WGB model?
Any views on the 148VG3WGB model?
0 replies Thanks for your input Brady. Unfortunately most people tend to have an exaggerated view of the likelihood they will experience problems so the consequence of problems outweighs the odds of having them. The main issue with Panasonic washing machines as I see it is the aftersales and lack of error code technical information. If they get that right they stand a chance of selling a lot more washing machines.
Thanks for your input Brady. Unfortunately most people tend to have an exaggerated view of the likelihood they will experience problems so the consequence of problems outweighs the odds of having them. The main issue with Panasonic washing machines as I see it is the aftersales and lack of error code technical information. If they get that right they stand a chance of selling a lot more washing machines.
0 replies We sell Panasonic washers in our store, and for the last 2 years have had none go wrong..... So far. I agree with what everyone is saying but we also need to consider, how many machines are being sold and how many are actually going wrong. Im not employed by Panasonic so im not being paid to stick up for them, but i do feel i need to point out that i think the amount of actuall brake downs, (not including blocked filters or unbalanced drums) compared to the sales we are saying is very small. Fingers crossed though non of our customers ever gets a break down.
We sell Panasonic washers in our store, and for the last 2 years have had none go wrong….. So far. I agree with what everyone is saying but we also need to consider, how many machines are being sold and how many are actually going wrong. Im not employed by Panasonic so im not being paid to stick up for them, but i do feel i need to point out that i think the amount of actuall brake downs, (not including blocked filters or unbalanced drums) compared to the sales we are saying is very small.
Fingers crossed though non of our customers ever gets a break down.
0 replies you have put me off buying a new machine
you have put me off buying a new machine
0 replies U13 indicates an unbalanced load problem. Try the spin cycle with an empty drum to see if you still get the error code. A reason for getting unbalanced load problems can be the type of flooring the machine is sat on. I once went out to a new LG washing machine that refused to spin. The property was a converted barn with a very bouncy suspended wooden floor. The customer was not very pleased that he had purchased a very expensive top of the range washing machine that didn't like his house. That's modern electronics for you. Bring back the Zanussi Washcraft!!!!!!
U13 indicates an unbalanced load problem. Try the spin cycle with an empty drum to see if you still get the error code. A reason for getting unbalanced load problems can be the type of flooring the machine is sat on. I once went out to a new LG washing machine that refused to spin. The property was a converted barn with a very bouncy suspended wooden floor. The customer was not very pleased that he had purchased a very expensive top of the range washing machine that didn’t like his house. That’s modern electronics for you. Bring back the Zanussi Washcraft!!!!!!
0 replies Sickofmywasher: Terry D kindly offered the explanation for U13 error code a few comments back. I can only assume they are accurate. All washing machine brands break down so we can't necessarily judge an entire brand on experiences of some breakdowns. However, aftersales service and availability of parts and technical information are something I would judge a brand on. To be fair though both U11 and U13 are by implication not necessarily "proper" breakdowns. "Out of balanced loads", and "blocked filters" may well be user faults.
Sickofmywasher: Terry D kindly offered the explanation for U13 error code a few comments back. I can only assume they are accurate. All washing machine brands break down so we can’t necessarily judge an entire brand on experiences of some breakdowns. However, aftersales service and availability of parts and technical information are something I would judge a brand on.
To be fair though both U11 and U13 are by implication not necessarily “proper” breakdowns. “Out of balanced loads”, and “blocked filters” may well be user faults.
0 replies Tonight we have had a blocked drain, hoped this might have been what was causing my U13 message on my panasonic washing machine! Cleared the blockage, made no difference to the machine. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance.
Tonight we have had a blocked drain, hoped this might have been what was causing my U13 message on my panasonic washing machine! Cleared the blockage, made no difference to the machine. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance.
0 replies Ringo: This error code was mentioned in a previous comment
Ringo: This error code was mentioned in a previous comment
0 replies The washing machine NA148VA2 have a H43 error code,we have call to dealer but no feedback at moment,
The washing machine NA148VA2 have a H43 error code,we have call to dealer but no feedback at moment,
0 replies Bought a Panasonic washing machine after being assured of their reputation, what a total load of rubbish sevice is not worth speaking about, machine down now for 4 months, 4 visits by service engineers, never has spare parts, always have to wait for weeks for parts. Machine is currently broken Again, virtually every part changed and it still doesn't work. its had 3 new PCB's 2 pumps Motor now they say another PCB has gone A company like Panasonic should look after their customer better
Bought a Panasonic washing machine after being assured of their reputation, what a total load of rubbish
sevice is not worth speaking about, machine down now for 4 months, 4 visits by service engineers, never has spare parts, always have to wait for weeks for parts.
Machine is currently broken Again, virtually every part changed and it still doesn’t work.
its had 3 new PCB’s
2 pumps
Motor
now they say another PCB has gone
A company like Panasonic should look after their customer better
1 reply I hope the following is of use. U11 indicates machine unable to drain. Blockage between drum and drain pump?? Blockage of drain hose?? U13 indicates unbalanced load. Many modern machines suffer from this, but may be related to problem causing U11 fault. H43 indicates an internal water leak reaching its detector in the machine base. Like any washing machine, they are great until they go wrong. The problems are usually related to the after sales service.
I hope the following is of use.
U11 indicates machine unable to drain. Blockage between drum and drain pump?? Blockage of drain hose??
U13 indicates unbalanced load. Many modern machines suffer from this, but may be related to problem causing U11 fault.
H43 indicates an internal water leak reaching its detector in the machine base.
Like any washing machine, they are great until they go wrong. The problems are usually related to the after sales service.
0 replies I have a NA-168vx2 which after a only a few weeks was diaplaying the U11 code and also U13. I managed to work it out that it would only take a very small wash otherwise was unable to spin. I had the engineer out after only 3 months which was disappointing and today I have the H43 code. Very shoddy for a machine that does not get that much use. It will be interesting to see what service I get, but have found this website very useful. Many thanks
I have a NA-168vx2 which after a only a few weeks was diaplaying the U11 code and also U13. I managed to work it out that it would only take a very small wash otherwise was unable to spin. I had the engineer out after only 3 months which was disappointing and today I have the H43 code. Very shoddy for a machine that does not get that much use. It will be interesting to see what service I get, but have found this website very useful. Many thanks
0 replies When Panasonic launched these machines on the market I worked for a company who were agents for the company used by Panasonic for the servicing of the new machines. As a result we were invited to Panasonics in Bracknell to examine their new products and were also shown how they came apart to be repaired, should they go wrong. When invited to comment on their wonderful new products they were rather disappointed in our negative views of the construction of these machine which made them almost impossible to repair in the size of kitchens we are usually expected to work in. As an independent repairer I would never go out to one of these machines. As for the repair agents, if Panasonic are using the same company as two years ago, do not expect good service. The technical back up and supply of spare parts that we used to get from that company was dire.
When Panasonic launched these machines on the market I worked for a company who were agents for the company used by Panasonic for the servicing of the new machines. As a result we were invited to Panasonics in Bracknell to examine their new products and were also shown how they came apart to be repaired, should they go wrong. When invited to comment on their wonderful new products they were rather disappointed in our negative views of the construction of these machine which made them almost impossible to repair in the size of kitchens we are usually expected to work in. As an independent repairer I would never go out to one of these machines. As for the repair agents, if Panasonic are using the same company as two years ago, do not expect good service. The technical back up and supply of spare parts that we used to get from that company was dire.
0 replies K.MCKAY says: February 16, 2011 at 12:11 pm just bought a panasonic washing machine 8 hrs old model na-168vx2 .Allready showing error code h41 .Cannot complete a wash How did it turn out with your Panasonic washing machine with the H41 error? Did you get it fixed? Is it working properly now? Anybody else encountering this? ( mine is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1C_prAQuZM )
K.MCKAY says:
February 16, 2011 at 12:11 pm
just bought a panasonic washing machine 8 hrs old model na-168vx2 .Allready showing error code h41 .Cannot complete a wash
How did it turn out with your Panasonic washing machine with the H41 error? Did you get it fixed? Is it working properly now? Anybody else encountering this?
( mine is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1C_prAQuZM )
0 replies why are panasonic selling these machines with so many problems.the reason i bought that was all my other equipment is panasonic.which is so reliable..CMON PANASONIC SORT THIS OUT AS YOU WILL GIVING THEM AWAY
why are panasonic selling these machines with so many problems.the reason i bought that was all my other equipment is panasonic.which is so reliable..CMON PANASONIC SORT THIS OUT AS YOU WILL GIVING THEM AWAY
0 replies Make sure the error code isn't mentioned in the instruction book as ones relating to water supply or draining problems often are. Other than that, despite having the "error code bible" compiled by dozens of independent engineers in the trade there is no mention of any Panasonic error codes at my disposal, which is why I reluctantly caution people about the brand. I personally would not want to buy an appliance where the independent repair trade have little or no technical information about them.
Make sure the error code isn’t mentioned in the instruction book as ones relating to water supply or draining problems often are.
Other than that, despite having the “error code bible” compiled by dozens of independent engineers in the trade there is no mention of any Panasonic error codes at my disposal, which is why I reluctantly caution people about the brand. I personally would not want to buy an appliance where the independent repair trade have little or no technical information about them.
0 replies i have just bought a NA 147 VA2 and it hasnt completed a wash yet.error code H 48.asking for money back
i have just bought a NA 147 VA2 and it hasnt completed a wash yet.error code H 48.asking for money back
0 replies NA-148VA2 Owner & B jones: I have an extensive article on the problem of washing machines not spinning certain loads due to the out of balance monitoring systems. There's also a section in there headed "Beware of large capacity washing machines". Washing machine won't spin just one item or very small loads
NA-148VA2 Owner & B jones: I have an extensive article on the problem of washing machines not spinning certain loads due to the out of balance monitoring systems. There’s also a section in there headed “Beware of large capacity washing machines”. Washing machine won’t spin just one item or very small loads
0 replies Just exchanged my three month old panasonic NA148VA2 after having problems with it not spinning with wet towels in it even though its an 8kg machine took 1 out and it went fine, and then error code H43 kept coming up on it , i contacted panasonic and told them what was wrong they sent a third party engineer out to have a look it ,he diaganosed it to water leaking intenally so he ordered a new door seal ,after 2 weeks there was still no sign of it getting sorted, finaly after 3 weeks panasonic agreed to change it for a new one but i choose not to have a pana after reading all the write ups on different sites ,i think appliances and all there { FANCY} sensors are a little bit too far advanced ,remember the old TWIN TUB !
Just exchanged my three month old panasonic NA148VA2 after having problems with it not spinning with wet towels in it even though its an 8kg machine took 1 out and it went fine, and then error code H43 kept coming up on it , i contacted panasonic and told them what was wrong they sent a third party engineer out to have a look it ,he diaganosed it to water leaking intenally so he ordered a new door seal ,after 2 weeks there was still no sign of it getting sorted, finaly after 3 weeks panasonic agreed to change it for a new one but i choose not to have a pana after reading all the write ups on different sites ,i think appliances and all there { FANCY} sensors are a little bit too far advanced ,remember the old TWIN TUB !
0 replies Have to agree..Puchased panasonic machine 2009... John Lewis....Started to not take the fabric conditioner, so-called engineer came down with his tiny tool box got a scew driver out, washed the draw through (which i have already done) didnt even test the machine!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! said that should work now!!!!! Did it ? like hell!!!! Waiting for another panasonic tosspot to come down ... Been on to John Lewis, they are great as always, cant fault them at all . They are monitoring the situation..... Wish I had stuck with the old faithfuls....hotpoint, indesit, even a John Lewis machine...Thought I would spend a bit more this time.....lesson learned.....Very unhappy!!1
Have to agree..Puchased panasonic machine 2009… John Lewis….Started to not take the fabric conditioner, so-called engineer came down with his tiny tool box got a scew driver out, washed the draw through (which i have already done) didnt even test the machine!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! said that should work now!!!!! Did it ? like hell!!!! Waiting for another panasonic tosspot to come down …
Been on to John Lewis, they are great as always, cant fault them at all . They are monitoring the situation…..
Wish I had stuck with the old faithfuls….hotpoint, indesit, even a John Lewis machine…Thought I would spend a bit more this time…..lesson learned…..Very unhappy!!1
0 replies Bought this specifically for its large load capacity and energy efficiency. Its very quite compared to a lot of other machines as its got a brush less motor and washing seems to be on par with my other machine an old 5 kg Miele. But if you make use of the so called 8kg capacity, especially if you have a mixed load with a few large items that retain water, your typical large bath towels in 1 out of 4 washes, it will not do the final spin and throws U13 code for being out of balance. Take the heavy stuff out then it will spin ok. If I put the same load in my Miele, no problem spinning it! I don't think the suspension and or dampers are as robust as they should be for a 8kg machine unless you are very careful as to how you load the machine ..let's face it who is? Also happen to notice the door catch mechanism which is made out of plastic and seems very weak, can't see that lasting many years, let's just hope when that does go Panasonic 5 year warranty don't play silly buggers and claim it "user fault"!! On the whole good machine, but a few silly cost cutting mistakes by Panasonic which could turn out to be a pain. So only buy it if you get the free 5 year warranty otherwise look elsewhere.
Bought this specifically for its large load capacity and energy efficiency. Its very quite compared to a lot of other machines as its got a brush less motor and washing seems to be on par with my other machine an old 5 kg Miele. But if you make use of the so called 8kg capacity, especially if you have a mixed load with a few large items that retain water, your typical large bath towels in 1 out of 4 washes, it will not do the final spin and throws U13 code for being out of balance. Take the heavy stuff out then it will spin ok. If I put the same load in my Miele, no problem spinning it! I don’t think the suspension and or dampers are as robust as they should be for a 8kg machine unless you are very careful as to how you load the machine ..let’s face it who is?
Also happen to notice the door catch mechanism which is made out of plastic and seems very weak, can’t see that lasting many years, let’s just hope when that does go Panasonic 5 year warranty don’t play silly buggers and claim it “user fault”!! On the whole good machine, but a few silly cost cutting mistakes by Panasonic which could turn out to be a pain. So only buy it if you get the free 5 year warranty otherwise look elsewhere.
0 replies March 4th 2011 Hi, bought the Panasonic NA-168VX2 from John Lewis, it only managed 2 washes before it went awol showing error code H-55, it was replaced with a new one by john Lewis (within 5 days, Tech Support very helpfull) I have just installed the 2nd machine and hope all will be well, fingers crossed, watch this space !!
March 4th 2011
Hi, bought the Panasonic NA-168VX2 from John Lewis, it only managed 2 washes before it went awol showing error code H-55, it was replaced with a new one by john Lewis (within 5 days, Tech Support very helpfull) I have just installed the 2nd machine and hope all will be well, fingers crossed, watch this space !!
0 replies My new Panasonic washing machine has failed after only 3 months!. error code h 43 is showing which i understand is supposed to be a water leak even though there are NO signs of leakage. have waited almost a week for engineer to come and fix. initial impressions of the machine were very good but now im not to sure, not what i expected of a relatively expensive machine and considering my old hotpoint lasted 10 years without a fault ( running night and day ) im not overly pleased. we shall await the engineer and hopefully he can fix it. ____________ Update: 1st March I had an engineer visit today to fix error code h43 which is an internal leak, sure enough once the back was off there was water lying in the base of the machine and once the water touches a sensor the machine stops. The fix for this was for the engineer to simply mop up the water and dry the sensor, so not exactly a repair as such!. We then ran the machine with the back off and no leaks could be found so put back together again and all was well until after 5 washes later it broke down again with the same error code-very frustrating. I have lost all faith in a machine which is only 3 months old and this was further compounded by the engineers comments on the panasonic machine which were poor to say the least. Tomorrow it's over to John Lewis customer services to try and return this machine for a replacement machine and alternative brand. Not happy.
My new Panasonic washing machine has failed after only 3 months!. error code h 43 is showing which i understand is supposed to be a water leak even though there are NO signs of leakage. have waited almost a week for engineer to come and fix. initial impressions of the machine were very good but now im not to sure, not what i expected of a relatively expensive machine and considering my old hotpoint lasted 10 years without a fault ( running night and day ) im not overly pleased. we shall await the engineer and hopefully he can fix it.
____________
Update: 1st March
I had an engineer visit today to fix error code h43 which is an internal leak, sure enough once the back was off there was water lying in the base of the machine and once the water touches a sensor the machine stops. The fix for this was for the engineer to simply mop up the water and dry the sensor, so not exactly a repair as such!. We then ran the machine with the back off and no leaks could be found so put back together again and all was well until after 5 washes later it broke down again with the same error code-very frustrating. I have lost all faith in a machine which is only 3 months old and this was further compounded by the engineers comments on the panasonic machine which were poor to say the least. Tomorrow it’s over to John Lewis customer services to try and return this machine for a replacement machine and alternative brand. Not happy.
0 replies Hello K.MCAY: Make sure there isn't a problem with the water coming into the machine ( No water coming into the washing machine ) or the water pumping out of the machine ( Washing machine won't drain water ), which are both common installation faults for failed brand new washing machines when first connected up. Regarding the error code, Panasonic are one of the appliance manufacturers that are hard to get error codes and technical information for, which means independent repairers may find it difficult to work on them or refuse to do so. Manufacturers might like that idea but independent engineers are usually the first people asked to recommend a brand by customers with an expired appliance and they virtually never recommend brands they can't subsequently repair. Most consumers trust what an engineer recommends or advises to avoid. I don't think manufacturers realise just how many sales they lose because they shoulder out independent repairers. My error code book is quite comprehensive (compiled by appliance repair men across the UK) and there isn't a single Panasonic error code listed. In my opinion this is a reason to avoid an appliance brand as access to good independent repair engineers is an option that many people want and it shouldn't be denied.
Hello K.MCAY: Make sure there isn’t a problem with the water coming into the machine ( No water coming into the washing machine ) or the water pumping out of the machine ( Washing machine won’t drain water ), which are both common installation faults for failed brand new washing machines when first connected up.
Regarding the error code, Panasonic are one of the appliance manufacturers that are hard to get error codes and technical information for, which means independent repairers may find it difficult to work on them or refuse to do so. Manufacturers might like that idea but independent engineers are usually the first people asked to recommend a brand by customers with an expired appliance and they virtually never recommend brands they can’t subsequently repair. Most consumers trust what an engineer recommends or advises to avoid. I don’t think manufacturers realise just how many sales they lose because they shoulder out independent repairers.
My error code book is quite comprehensive (compiled by appliance repair men across the UK) and there isn’t a single Panasonic error code listed. In my opinion this is a reason to avoid an appliance brand as access to good independent repair engineers is an option that many people want and it shouldn’t be denied.
0 replies just bought a panasonic washing machine 8 hrs old model na-168vx2 .Allready showing error code h41 .Cannot complete a wash
just bought a panasonic washing machine 8 hrs old model na-168vx2 .Allready showing error code h41 .Cannot complete a wash
0 replies Yes I have looked at Panasonic and its track record and it seemed good enough to make me buy one 18 months later still in its warranty period it has failed the engineer is not sure what the prolem is maybe it is the main circuit board or maybe not. Supplier is going to credit me £200. So I am going with that.
Yes I have looked at Panasonic and its track record and it seemed good enough to make me buy one 18 months later still in its warranty period it has failed the engineer is not sure what the prolem is maybe it is the main circuit board or maybe not. Supplier is going to credit me £200. So I am going with that.
0 replies Hello E G: Yes, my last paragraph mentions this problem. I'm afraid they do seem to have a reputation for issues regarding technical support, spare parts and aftersales service.
Hello E G: Yes, my last paragraph mentions this problem. I’m afraid they do seem to have a reputation for issues regarding technical support, spare parts and aftersales service.
0 replies Panasonic washing machines may promise the high quality and reliability provided by their brown goods. Indeed the performance is very good, providing excellent cleaning with low noise and energy consumption. However, woe betide if you have a problem with the machine in warranty or beyond. Despite the high tech fault codes, the Panasonic appointed repair organisation cannot sensibly use them to arrive with parts to repair or even know what is wrong. End result, without washing machine for more than 4 weeks! Could you survive this long? Think of the expense for alternatives! Companies can only be regarded as good by how they perform when things go wrong; unfortunately Panasonic falls way short of what could be considered acceptable. You have been warned!
Panasonic washing machines may promise the high quality and reliability provided by their brown goods. Indeed the performance is very good, providing excellent cleaning with low noise and energy consumption. However, woe betide if you have a problem with the machine in warranty or beyond. Despite the high tech fault codes, the Panasonic appointed repair organisation cannot sensibly use them to arrive with parts to repair or even know what is wrong. End result, without washing machine for more than 4 weeks! Could you survive this long? Think of the expense for alternatives! Companies can only be regarded as good by how they perform when things go wrong; unfortunately Panasonic falls way short of what could be considered acceptable. You have been warned!
Thanks William for your comments.
I agree with you that the seal is faulty.
The machine still sounds like new and is very quiet.
The engineer phoned me late in the day to tell me that Panasonic want pictures of the bearings so he has booked us a double slot next week when he will come and strip down the machine.
The lack of noise suggests to me that he won’t find anything wrong with the bearings but hopefully he will use a new seal which will solve our problem.
What I don’t understand is why he didn’t do this on the first visit as I now have to pull the machine back out of it’s location and into the kitchen once again where he will have the space to work on it.