Westinghouse Dryer Error E42

⚡ Quick Answer: The Westinghouse Dryer error code E42 indicates a door sensing issue, where the dryer fails to recognize that the door is fully closed. Symptoms inclu... ✅ DIY Fixable

What Does Error E42 Mean?

The Westinghouse Dryer error code E42 indicates a door sensing issue, where the dryer fails to recognize that the door is fully closed. Symptoms include the dryer not starting, despite the door appearing shut, and intermittent starting when the door latch is engaged. Common causes include an obstructed door, a faulty door switch, or loose wiring. To resolve this, check the door for obstructions and ensure it is securely closed, or power cycle the dryer to reset its electronics.

Common Symptoms:

  • Dryer won’t start cycle while displaying E42
  • Door appears closed but dryer won’t recognize closure
  • Intermittent or failed start when door latch is engaged

Possible Causes

  • Door not fully closed or obstructed (medium)
  • Faulty or misaligned door switch (medium)
  • Loose or damaged wiring between door switch and control board (medium)
  • Control board misinterpreting door status (low)

How to Fix Error E42

DIY Fix Check the door and latch

  1. Ensure the dryer door is fully closed and latched
  2. Inspect the door gasket and remove any clothing or debris preventing closure
  3. Try opening and firmly re‑closing the door before starting a cycle

DIY Fix Power cycle the dryer

  1. Unplug the dryer or switch off its circuit breaker
  2. Wait 1–2 minutes
  3. Restore power and attempt to start a cycle again

Technician Only Test and inspect door switch circuit

  1. Disconnect power
  2. Access the door switch assembly
  3. Check continuity with a multimeter while opening/closing the door
  4. Inspect wiring harness and connectors for damage or looseness

Parts needed: Door switch, Wiring harness

Technician Only Evaluate control board door input

  1. After verifying door switch and wiring, test the control board input for the door switch
  2. Replace control board if input circuits fail to register door status

Parts needed: Control board

🛑 When to Call a Pro:
  • Door jammed or hardware inaccessible
  • Multimeter testing of live circuits when not qualified
  • Control board suspected but underlying cause unclear

Next step

Choose the next step for E42

Confirm the diagnosis before ordering. An error code can identify the system involved, but it does not prove that a specific part has failed.

Based on diagnostic data

Most relevant component to inspect

Door or Lid Switch

Detects whether the appliance door or lid is safely closed before operation.

Typical part-only price
$15 - $55
DIY difficulty
Medium
Estimated time
20-45 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.

Find a part that fits my model

Verify the complete model and part number on the retailer's compatibility page before ordering.

Other components that may be involved

Check these only if your diagnosis points to them.

Possible related component

Main Control Board

The central brain of the appliance that controls all components, cycles, and timings.

$120 - $280 · Medium · 20-40 mins

Check fit & price

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Technical Specifications

wattage 500W
component Drive Motor
resistance 5-15 ohms
part_number W10820036
voltage_rating 240V AC

Common Questions

What does E42 error mean on Westinghouse Dryer?

E42 indicates a door sensing issue where the dryer fails to recognize the door is closed.

Can I fix Westinghouse Dryer E42 error myself?

Yes, check the door for obstructions and ensure it is properly closed, or power cycle the dryer.

How much does it cost to fix E42 error?

Estimated repair costs range from $20 to $80 for parts, with labor varying.

When should I call a technician for E42?

Call a technician if the door is jammed, or if you need to test live circuits.

Sources & References

Data last verified: 2026-07-22

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