Hotpoint WD washer dryer flashing lights
Error F03 on Hotpoint and Indesit washing machines means “NTC fault” – the thermistor (temperature sensor) is giving a reading outside the expected range, or the connection to it has failed. This usually means the machine cannot correctly monitor the wash water temperature. The thermistor itself or its wiring connections need checking before assuming the sensor has failed.
What Error F03 Means
F03 indicates an NTC fault. The error description is “NTC fault: check thermistor and module connections.” The NTC (negative temperature coefficient) thermistor is the machine’s temperature sensor – it monitors the wash water temperature and reports back to the PCB so the machine can heat the water to the correct point. If the thermistor reading is absent, out of range, or implausible, the PCB triggers F03.
What an NTC thermistor does
The thermistor is a small electronic component whose electrical resistance changes with temperature. As wash water heats up, the thermistor’s resistance falls in a predictable way. The PCB reads this resistance and calculates the water temperature from it. A thermistor that is open circuit, short circuit, or giving an out-of-range reading will trigger F03. See our guide on how to test an NTC thermistor for testing and diagnosis.
What to check before replacing the thermistor
The error description specifically mentions checking connections – “check thermistor and module connections.” A loose, corroded, or broken wiring connector to the thermistor will produce the same error as a failed thermistor, at a fraction of the cost. Before ordering a new thermistor, check all connections to and from the sensor and trace the wiring back to the PCB connector.
How F03 Is Displayed on Different Machines
Hotpoint and Indesit machines indicate error codes in different ways depending on the model:
| Display type | How F03 appears |
|---|---|
| Digital display | F03 displayed directly on screen |
| Single flashing LED | Door lock light (or similar indicator) flashes 3 times, pauses, and repeats |
| Option button lights (e.g. Hotpoint WD / WF range) | Option buttons 3 and 4 flash simultaneously along with the on/off light – the number corresponds to the fault code |
On the Hotpoint WD range, option button numbers count from left to right across the control panel. If option buttons 3 (Rinse Hold) and 4 (Time Saver) are both flashing, along with the on/off indicator, this is the machine displaying error F03. The specific button labels vary by model but the numbering method is consistent. See our guide on how to read flashing light error codes for more on this method.
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Related Guides
How to Test an NTC ThermistorHow to test whether the thermistor has failed or the fault is in the wiring connection.
Washing Machine Not Heating Up WaterHeating element, thermostat, and thermistor faults that cause a machine to wash in cold water.
Washing Machine Lights FlashingHow to read and interpret flashing LED error codes on Hotpoint, Indesit, and similar machines.
Error F08 / 8 Flashing LightsHeater relay fault on Hotpoint and Indesit washing machines – what it means and what to check.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does error F03 mean on a Hotpoint or Indesit washing machine?
F03 means “NTC fault” – a problem with the thermistor (temperature sensor) or its wiring connections. The thermistor monitors wash water temperature and the PCB uses this reading to control the heating element. F03 appears when the thermistor reading is absent, out of range, or implausible – which can be caused by a failed thermistor, a faulty connection, or broken wiring.
How do I know if the thermistor has failed or if it is a wiring problem?
Test the thermistor with a multimeter using the resistance test described in our NTC thermistor testing guide. A working thermistor shows a resistance that changes smoothly as temperature changes – typically several thousand ohms at room temperature, falling as temperature rises. An open circuit reading (no continuity) or a fixed reading that does not change with temperature indicates a failed thermistor. Before testing the component itself, check all wiring connectors to the thermistor and trace back to the PCB.
My machine shows 3 flashing lights and no error code – is this F03?
On older Hotpoint and Indesit machines without a digital display, 3 flashes from the door lock indicator (or another primary LED) followed by a pause and repeat indicates error code F03. On machines with multiple option buttons, option buttons 3 and 4 flashing together with the on/off light also indicates F03. See our guide on reading flashing light error codes for more detail on your specific machine type.
Hoover Error 8
Hoover error 8 (also shown as E08) relates to the tacho coil – the small sensor on the motor that measures motor speed. The error means the PCB is not receiving a usable signal from the tacho coil. The cause could be the coil itself, a wiring connection fault, or the PCB. Also check for worn carbon brushes, which have resolved this error on some machines. Not all motors have carbon brushes.
Error 8 Across Hoover Models
| Model range | Error 8 description |
|---|---|
| Hoover Vision HD | Tacho fault |
| Hoover Nextra | Motor jammed / drum shaft jammed, or tacho generator fault |
| Hoover 3-phase autowashers | Tacho generator out of circuit – can be wiring or PCB |
| Hoover Optima | E08 – Tacho fault |
The Nextra’s description also includes “motor jammed / drum shaft jammed” as a possibility – so if you have an error 8 on a Nextra, also check that the drum turns freely by hand before focusing on the tacho coil. A seized drum or motor bearing produces the same error because the tacho coil never registers rotation. For more on the Nextra error code and tacho coil photos, see our guide on Hoover Nextra error 7, which references the same component.
What Is the Tacho Coil and What Does It Do?
The tacho coil is a small electrical coil fitted onto the motor at the opposite end from the drive belt and carbon brushes. A magnet is fitted to the end of the motor armature shaft. Each time the motor completes one revolution, the passing magnet induces a signal in the tacho coil. The PCB counts these signals to determine motor speed and uses this information to control the motor throughout the wash and spin cycle.
Why losing the tacho signal stops the machine
On older machines, a missing tacho signal allowed the motor to spin uncontrollably – this caused damage to the machine. Modern machines detect a missing or invalid tacho signal and stop immediately, displaying an error code. The machine will not run until the tacho signal is restored.
What can cause error 8
The error indicates the tacho circuit has failed, which can have several causes: the coil itself may have become open circuit; the coil can physically fall off the motor, particularly on older machines; there may be a connection fault at the coil or PCB end; a wire between the coil and PCB may have broken; or the PCB itself may have a fault affecting the tacho input.
Diagnosing Error 8
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Check the drum turns freely by hand.
Open the door and spin the drum manually. If it is stiff or will not turn, a seized drum bearing or motor bearing may be the cause – this stops the tacho coil from generating any signal at all. See our guide on washing machine drum not turning.
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Inspect the tacho coil visually.
Access the motor (back panel removal is usually required). Check whether the tacho coil is still in place on the motor. On older machines it can physically detach from its mounting. If the coil has fallen away from the motor, it will not function regardless of its electrical condition.
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Check the wiring and connections.
Trace the two wires from the tacho coil to the PCB and check the connectors at both ends. A loose, corroded, or broken connector is a common and simple cause of this error. Disconnect and reconnect each connector to ensure a clean contact.
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Test the tacho coil resistance.
The tacho coil has a relatively high resistance – typically 150 ohms or more. A standard multimeter set to a low resistance range may read this as open circuit when the coil is actually functional. Use a meter capable of reading up to at least 200 ohms and test across the two coil terminals. A reading consistent with the typical range suggests the coil is intact; a true open circuit (no continuity at any range) indicates the coil has failed.
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Check the carbon brushes (if fitted).
Worn carbon brushes have been reported to cause error 8 on some Hoover machines – not through any direct link to the tacho coil, but because a motor with severely worn brushes may not be producing clean rotation that the tacho can register. Not all motors have carbon brushes. See our guide on diagnosing worn carbon brushes.
The PCB can also cause error 8, but a PCB fault should only be suspected after the tacho coil, wiring, connections, and carbon brushes have all been checked and found to be in order. PCBs are expensive – confirm the simpler causes first.
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Related Guides
Hoover Nextra Error 7More on the tacho coil including photos – useful for diagnosing error 8 on Nextra models.
Diagnosing Worn Carbon BrushesHow to confirm whether worn carbon brushes are causing a motor fault before replacing them.
Washing Machine Drum Not TurningBelt, motor, and bearing faults that stop the drum rotating – relevant when error 8 appears with a seized drum.
Washing Machine Lights FlashingHow to read and interpret flashing LED error codes on Hoover and similar machines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the tacho coil on a washing machine?
The tacho coil is a small sensor coil fitted on the motor, at the opposite end from the drive belt. A magnet on the motor armature shaft passes the coil once per revolution, inducing a signal that the PCB counts to measure motor speed. The PCB uses this speed information to control the motor throughout the wash and spin cycle. If the coil signal is absent or invalid, the machine stops and displays an error code.
Can error 8 be caused by something other than the tacho coil?
Yes. The error indicates the tacho circuit has failed, which can be caused by: a failed tacho coil, the coil physically falling off the motor, a loose or broken wiring connection, worn carbon brushes (on motors that have them), or a PCB fault. A seized drum or motor bearing can also trigger the error on Nextra models because the motor never actually rotates to generate a tacho signal.
How do I test the tacho coil?
Use a multimeter to test resistance across the two tacho coil terminals. Tacho coils typically have a resistance of 150 ohms or more. A standard meter set to a low resistance range may show this as open circuit even when the coil is functional – ensure the meter is set to a range capable of reading at least 200 ohms. A genuine open circuit reading at all ranges indicates a failed coil.
Indesit or Hotpoint washing machine flashing 10 times (error F10)
Ten flashes of the door lock light on a basic Indesit (or Hotpoint) washing machine with a rotary dial indicates error F10 – “pressure switch not sensing correctly”. This means the PCB is not receiving a valid signal from the pressure switch. The fault may be in the pressure switch itself, the wiring between it and the PCB, or the PCB. This fault is best investigated by an engineer.
How to Read This Error Code
Basic Indesit washing machines with a rotary programme dial have no digital display. When a fault occurs the dial clicks continuously round and the door lock LED flashes a set number of times in a repeating sequence. Counting the flashes gives the fault number. Ten flashes indicates error F10.
The same error code system is shared with some Hotpoint models, as both brands are owned by the same parent company and share many components. See our general guide on how to read washing machine flashing light error codes and our guide on programme selector dial clicking round continuously.
What Error F10 Means
Error F10 means “pressure switch not sensing correctly: check pressure switch and module connections.”
What the Pressure Switch Does
The pressure switch monitors the water level inside the machine. As water enters, it rises in a small sealed chamber connected to the outer drum. The air pressure in this chamber increases as the water level rises, and the pressure switch responds to this change – sending signals to the PCB when the drum has reached the correct fill level and again when it has successfully drained.
Error F10 is distinct from errors F04 and F05 on the same range. F04 indicates the pressure switch is stuck in the empty (off) position. F05 indicates it is stuck in the full (on) position. F10 indicates that communication between the pressure switch and the PCB has failed entirely – the PCB is not receiving any signal at all. This suggests the fault may be in the wiring or connections rather than the switch itself, though the switch cannot be ruled out.
Possible Causes
Wiring or connection fault
A broken wire or loose connector between the pressure switch and the PCB will produce F10 even if both components are otherwise functional. Check the wiring connectors at the switch and at the PCB for looseness or corrosion before concluding either component has failed.
Blocked or kinked pressure hose
The small plastic hose that connects the pressure chamber to the pressure switch can become blocked with detergent residue or kinked, preventing the air pressure from reaching the switch. Inspect this hose for any obstruction or damage. See our guide on pressure system faults for more detail.
Failed pressure switch
The pressure switch itself may have failed and is not sending any signal. A failed switch will need replacing. This requires testing with a continuity meter under controlled conditions and is generally best left to an engineer.
PCB fault
A fault on the main control board affecting the pressure switch input can produce F10. PCB faults are rarely visible to the eye and should only be suspected once wiring, hose, and switch have been checked.
Need an Engineer?
F10 involves wiring, pressure system components, and potentially the PCB – diagnosis is not straightforward without test equipment.
Related Guides
Pressure System FaultsHow the pressure switch and chamber work, and how to diagnose faults in the pressure system.
Programme Dial Clicking Round ContinuouslyWhy the rotary dial keeps turning on Indesit and Hotpoint machines – and how to read the flashing error codes it produces.
Washing Machine Lights FlashingHow to count and interpret flashing LED error codes on Indesit, Hotpoint, and similar machines.
Error F08 / 8 Flashing LightsThe heater relay fault indicated by 8 flashes on Hotpoint and Indesit washing machines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 10 flashes on my Indesit washing machine mean?
Ten flashes of the door lock LED, repeating in a cycle while the programme dial clicks round, indicates error F10 – “pressure switch not sensing correctly.” The PCB is not receiving a valid signal from the pressure switch that monitors water level inside the machine. The cause could be a wiring connection fault, a blocked pressure hose, a failed pressure switch, or a PCB fault.
How is F10 different from errors F04 and F05?
F04 means the pressure switch is stuck in the empty position – signalling no water when there is water present. F05 means it is stuck in the full position – signalling water when the drum is empty. F10 means the PCB is receiving no signal at all from the pressure switch. F10 therefore suggests a communication failure – broken wire, loose connector, or a switch that has stopped sending any signal – rather than the switch being stuck in a specific position.
Can I fix error F10 myself?
Checking the wiring connectors between the pressure switch and the PCB, and inspecting the pressure hose for blockage or kinking, are accessible checks for a careful DIYer. Beyond that, testing the pressure switch with a continuity meter and diagnosing PCB faults requires test equipment and experience. An engineer is the recommended route for this fault.
Hoover Nextra error code 3
Hoover Nextra error code 3 means “pump timeout exceeded” – the machine started draining and the water did not fall to the expected level within 3 minutes. The cycle is aborted, the door lock remains active, and the door will not open until the fault is resolved. In most cases the pump is not draining properly. Check the pump filter first.
Error 3 on the Hoover Nextra is indicated by the start light and delay start light both flashing 3 times in a repeating sequence. The door lock light remains on and the door will not release until the fault is cleared.
What Error Code 3 Means
The full error description is “pump time-out (3 mins) exceeded.” When a Hoover Nextra begins the drain phase, the programme controller starts a 3-minute timer. If the pressure system has not confirmed that the water level has dropped to empty within that time, the machine assumes a drain fault has occurred and aborts the cycle with error 3.
This error can have two causes, and they require different approaches to diagnose:
Cause A: The machine genuinely is not drainingWater is still inside the drum. The pump is not moving it away within the 3-minute window. This is the most common cause – a blocked pump filter, a partial pump fault, or a drain hose obstruction. Start here.
Cause B: The machine has drained but does not know itThe water has actually pumped away, but the pressure system has not sent the signal confirming this to the PCB. The controller times out and triggers error 3 even though the drum is empty. This is less common but possible if the pressure system has a fault.
Diagnosing the Cause
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Check whether water is still in the drum.
Look through the door glass. Is there water inside? Did you hear the pump running during the drain phase? If there is clearly still water inside the drum, the machine did not drain – proceed to step 2. If the drum appears empty but the error still appeared, the fault is in the pressure system – skip to step 4.
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Clean the pump filter.
A blocked pump filter is the most common cause of a drain fault on any washing machine. On most Hoover Nextra machines the filter is behind a small access panel at the front bottom of the machine. Clean it thoroughly and check for any foreign objects. See our guide on the washing machine pump filter.
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If the filter is clear but still not draining – investigate further.
With the filter clear and the drain hose unobstructed, a partial pump fault or other restriction is likely. See our full guide on washing machine not draining water and our guide on not draining despite no visible blockage.
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If the machine drained but error 3 still appeared – check the pressure system.
The pressure system uses a small hose from the outer drum to a pressure switch, which signals the PCB when water has fully drained. A blocked or kinked pressure hose, or a faulty pressure switch, can prevent this confirmation reaching the PCB – causing error 3 even though the drain was successful. See our guide on pressure system faults and how a washing machine controls water levels.
The pressure switch and pressure hose are only worth investigating if the machine is confirmed to be draining correctly. The most common cause of error 3 is a pump or drain blockage – not a pressure system fault. Confirm the drain is working before looking at the pressure system.
Need a Repair?
Related Guides
Washing Machine Won’t Drain WaterFull diagnostic guide for a machine that will not empty – pump filter, pump, and drain hose checks.
Pressure System FaultsHow the pressure system monitors water level and what happens when it fails to register correctly.
Hoover Nextra Error Code 7Motor and tacho fault on the Hoover Nextra – causes and how to diagnose them.
No Blockage But Still Not DrainingWhat to check when the pump filter is clear but the machine still will not empty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does error code 3 mean on a Hoover Nextra?
Error 3 means the pump timeout has been exceeded – the machine tried to drain for 3 minutes and the pressure system did not confirm the water had gone. The cycle is aborted and the door lock remains active. The most common cause is that the machine genuinely failed to drain – check the pump filter first.
Why won’t the door open when error 3 is showing?
The door lock remains engaged when water is detected inside the drum – or when the machine believes water may still be present. This is a safety feature to prevent the door being opened on a drum full of water. Once the fault is resolved and the machine drains successfully, the door lock will release.
The machine drained but error 3 still appeared – what does that mean?
This points to a pressure system fault. The machine drained correctly but the signal confirming this did not reach the PCB. The most common causes are a blocked or kinked pressure hose, or a faulty pressure switch. The pressure hose should be inspected first as it is the most accessible component and is more commonly the cause than a failed switch.
Error code F04 or light flashing 4 times
Indesit error F04 means “pressure switch jammed on empty” – the PCB is not receiving confirmation that the water level has risen inside the machine. The most common cause is a blockage in the pressure system hose or chamber. A faulty pressure switch, a connection fault, or a PCB fault are also possible. Check the pressure hose for blockage as the first step.
What Error F04 Means
F04 is described as “pressure switch jammed on empty – check pressure switch and module.” On machines with a rotary dial and no digital display, this error is indicated by the dial clicking continuously round accompanied by 4 repeating flashes of the door lock LED. On models with a display, F04 is shown directly.
The pressure switch monitors water level by detecting changes in air pressure in a sealed chamber connected to the outer drum. When no water is present, the switch signals “empty” to the PCB. As water enters and rises, air pressure builds in the chamber and eventually trips the switch to signal “full.” Error F04 means the PCB received the command to fill the machine but never received confirmation from the pressure switch that the water level rose – the switch is stuck reporting “empty.”
F04 is distinct from the H20 error code, which indicates the machine is not filling at all. F04 implies the machine is allowing water in but the pressure switch is not detecting the rising level. If the machine is clearly not filling – no water sound, no water visible – H20 is the more likely code. If the machine can be heard filling but F04 appears, the pressure system is the likely cause.
Possible Causes
| Possible cause | How to identify | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Blocked pressure hose or chamber | Most common cause – detergent residue or debris can block the small hose or chamber that communicates air pressure to the switch | Inspect and clear the pressure hose. See our guide on pressure system faults |
| Kinked or disconnected pressure hose | A hose that has kinked or come off its connection at either end will not transmit pressure to the switch | Trace the hose from the drum connection to the pressure switch and check both ends are secure and the hose is undamaged |
| Failed pressure switch | If the hose and chamber are clear, the switch itself may have failed and is no longer responding to pressure changes | Test the switch with a continuity meter – a working switch changes state when air pressure is applied. Engineer recommended if uncertain |
| Wiring or connection fault | A loose or corroded connector between the pressure switch and PCB will prevent the signal reaching the PCB even if the switch is working | Check all connectors on the pressure switch wiring harness and at the PCB end |
| PCB fault | The PCB may have a fault affecting the pressure switch input. Only suspect after all other causes are eliminated | Engineer required |
Need a Repair or Part?
Related Guides
Pressure System FaultsHow the pressure switch and chamber work, and how to diagnose and clear blockages.
Error F10 / 10 Flashing LightsA related pressure switch communication fault on Indesit and Hotpoint washing machines.
Programme Dial Clicking Round ContinuouslyHow to read error codes indicated by a continuously rotating dial and flashing LED on Indesit machines.
Washing Machine Not Filling With WaterWhen the machine genuinely is not filling rather than a pressure switch fault – inlet valve and water supply checks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does error F04 mean on an Indesit washing machine?
F04 means “pressure switch jammed on empty.” The PCB commanded the machine to fill with water but never received confirmation from the pressure switch that the water level rose. The switch remains stuck reporting empty. The most common cause is a blockage in the pressure hose or chamber. A failed switch, a wiring fault, or a PCB fault are also possible.
What is the difference between F04 and H20?
H20 indicates the machine is not filling at all – no water is entering. F04 indicates the machine has water entering but the pressure switch is not detecting the rising level. If the machine can be heard filling but the error persists, F04 and a pressure system fault is the more likely cause. If no water sound is heard at all, H20 and an inlet valve or water supply problem is more likely.
Can I fix error F04 myself?
Checking and clearing the pressure hose for blockage or kinking is accessible for a careful DIY repair. Checking and reseating wiring connectors is also accessible. Testing the pressure switch itself requires a multimeter and some knowledge of how to apply and release air pressure to the switch terminals to test continuity. PCB faults are not DIY accessible and require an engineer.
Indesit washer dryer light flashes 13 times
On an Indesit washer dryer with a rotary dial (such as the WD12 range), 13 flashes of the on/off LED in a repeating cycle – accompanied by the programme dial clicking round continuously – indicates error code 13: “Dryer fan does not work” or “Dryer NTC faulty.” This is a fault with the dryer function. The machine needs an engineer to diagnose whether the fan motor, the NTC thermistor, or an associated wiring connection has failed.
How to Read This Error Code
Indesit washer dryers with a rotary programme dial and no digital display indicate faults by clicking the dial round continuously while the LED flashes a set number of times in a repeating cycle. Count the flashes between each pause to identify the error number. Thirteen flashes indicates error 13.
If the dial is clicking round because a programme has been changed or interrupted, turning the machine off and resetting the dial to an off position will stop it. If the clicking is caused by an active fault, the machine will begin clicking again as soon as the fault is re-encountered during the next cycle. Resetting alone does not fix a fault – it only clears the current error display.
See our guide on programme selector dial clicking round continuously for more on how to distinguish a fault-triggered click from a programme change.
What Error 13 Means
Error 13 on the Indesit WD range means “dryer fan does not work” or “dryer NTC faulty.” The two possible causes are distinct but both relate to the dryer function:
Dryer fan faultThe dryer fan circulates hot air through the drum during the drying cycle. If the fan motor has failed or the fan is obstructed, the machine detects that airflow is not being generated and triggers error 13. The fan motor, its wiring connections, and any obstruction of the fan blades should be checked.
Dryer NTC thermistor faultThe NTC (negative temperature coefficient) thermistor is the temperature sensor that monitors the air temperature during the drying cycle. If it fails or reads outside the expected range, the machine cannot confirm the dryer is operating correctly. See our guide on tumble dryer not heating for background on how NTC sensors and heating faults interact.
Some Hotpoint and Indesit washing machines can retain a dangerous electrical charge even after being unplugged. Wait at least 5 minutes after unplugging before touching any internal component. See our guide on electric shock risk from Hotpoint washing machines before opening any panel.
Need a Repair?
Related Guides
Programme Dial Clicking Round ContinuouslyHow to read error codes from a rotating dial and flashing LED on Indesit and Hotpoint machines.
Tumble Dryer Not HeatingNTC thermistor, TOC, and heating element faults that cause a dryer to run without heating – relevant to the dryer NTC fault in error 13.
Hotpoint WD Washer Dryer Error F03NTC thermistor fault on the Hotpoint WD range – closely related to the Indesit error 13 on similar machines.
Washing Machine Lights FlashingHow to count and interpret flashing LED error codes on Indesit, Hotpoint, and similar machines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 13 flashes mean on an Indesit washer dryer?
Thirteen flashes of the on/off LED, repeating in a cycle while the programme dial clicks round, indicates error 13 on the dryer function – either the dryer fan is not working or the dryer NTC thermistor is faulty. Both relate to the drying component of the machine rather than the wash function.
Will resetting the dial fix the error 13 fault?
Resetting stops the dial clicking temporarily but does not fix the underlying fault. As soon as the machine reaches the point in the cycle where it detects the fault again, it will resume clicking and displaying the error. The fault causing error 13 must be diagnosed and repaired – the dryer fan, NTC thermistor, or associated wiring needs investigation by an engineer.
Can I still use the washing function if error 13 is showing?
Error 13 specifically relates to the dryer function. Whether the wash function continues to operate normally depends on whether the machine allows the cycle to proceed at all when the error is active. In many cases error 13 will abort the cycle – but even if the wash function appears to work, the fault should be investigated before continuing to use the machine, particularly given the safety considerations around dryer overheating faults.