Miele Washing Machine Error F138
⚡ Quick Answer: The Miele washing machine error F138 indicates that water has been detected in the drip tray, triggering the waterproof leak-detection system and stop... ✅ DIY Fixable
What Does Error F138 Mean?
The Miele washing machine error F138 indicates that water has been detected in the drip tray, triggering the waterproof leak-detection system and stopping operation. This often results from an internal leak, possibly from hoses or a defective door seal, and can lead to continuous drain pump operation. If this error occurs, it is crucial to address the water accumulation promptly to prevent further damage.
Common Symptoms:
- Error F138 displayed and cycle stops
- Water detected in drip tray/base pan beneath machine
- Possible continuous drain pump operation
- ‘Waterproof’ / ‘Call service’ messages in display
Possible Causes
- Water detected in drip tray due to internal leak (high)
- Leak from internal hoses or connections (medium)
- Defective door seal or gasket causing leakage (medium)
- Excessive foam or detergent overflow (medium)
How to Fix Error F138
DIY Fix Safely remove laundry and stop further leaks
- Close the water inlet to the washer
- Disconnect the washer from the power supply
- Ensure the drum is stationary before reaching inside
- Use the emergency release to open the door and remove laundry
DIY Fix Drain and clean the drip tray/base pan
- Unplug the washer and pull it away from the wall
- Access the drip tray by removing the lower front panel
- Carefully absorb or drain the water from the tray
- Dry the tray thoroughly before resetting the machine
Technician Only Inspect and repair internal leaks
- Inspect internal hoses, connections, and clamps for leaks
- Check door seal/gasket for damage and replace if needed
- Test float switch and leak‑detection sensors for correct operation
- Verify drain pump and inlet components are not leaking
Parts needed: door seal/gasket, internal hoses and connectors, float switch/leak sensor, drain pump
Technician Only Check detergent usage and internal drainage
- Verify correct detergent type and dosage
- Inspect and clean lint filter and internal drainage paths
- Ensure no blockages causing overflow into base pan
Parts needed: lint filter, drain hoses
- If water continues to accumulate after drying the base pan
- If internal leaks cannot be located or fixed
- If leak‑detection sensor appears faulty or false‑trips
Next step
Choose the next step for F138
Confirm the diagnosis before ordering. An error code can identify the system involved, but it does not prove that a specific part has failed.
Most relevant component to inspect
Door Gasket
Creates a watertight seal around the door to prevent leaks during operation.
- Typical part-only price
- $45 - $110
- DIY difficulty
- Medium
- Estimated time
- 30-60 mins
Where can I find the model number?
Check the rating label around the door, lid, frame, rear panel, or inside the appliance cabinet. Use the complete model number, including suffixes.
Verify the complete model and part number on the retailer's compatibility page before ordering.
Other parts options
Check related components first; use model search as a fallback.
Float Switch
Detects the maximum water level to prevent overflow and potential flooding.
Drain Pump
Pumps waste water out of the appliance during the drain cycle.
Model-compatible Washing Machine parts
Enter the complete model number to browse compatible replacement parts. This is a model-based parts search, not a diagnosis that a specific component failed.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a commission from other qualifying purchases or service requests made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. Recommendations are based on repair relevance, not commission rate.
Optional routine care
Maintenance supplies
These products support cleaning or routine upkeep. They are separate from the possible repair components above and are not claimed to fix this error code or symptom.
Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets
Routine tub-cleaning supplies for residue and odor control. They do not repair a mechanical, drainage, or electronic fault.
Braided Washer Inlet Hoses
A maintenance replacement option for visibly worn external fill hoses. Verify thread size, length, and hot/cold connection requirements.
Washer Drain Hose Holder
Helps secure an external drain hose at the standpipe. It does not correct an internal pump or control fault.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Recommendations are based on routine-care relevance, not commission rate.
Technical Specifications
| note | The previous model-independent part specification was removed. Verify the full model number and diagnosis in the manufacturer's official parts catalog before ordering. |
|---|---|
| part_number | None |
Common Questions
What does F138 error mean on miele washing machine?
F138 indicates water detected in the drip tray, stopping the machine due to a leak.
Can I fix miele washing machine F138 error myself?
Yes, you can stop leaks, drain the tray, and clean it yourself.
How much does it cost to fix F138 error?
Repair costs range from $100 to $400 depending on parts and labor.
When should I call a technician for F138?
Call if water continues to accumulate or if internal leaks are undetectable.
Sources & References
- Miele Waschmaschinen Support – Fehler F138 (official)
- Miele Washer | Fault F138 appears in display (USA) (official)
Data last verified: 2026-07-31
User Comments (0)
Share your experience or solution below.
Please login to post a comment.
Be the first to comment!