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
- Ensure the dryer door is fully closed and latched
- Inspect the door gasket and remove any clothing or debris preventing closure
- Try opening and firmly re‑closing the door before starting a cycle
DIY Fix Power cycle the dryer
- Unplug the dryer or switch off its circuit breaker
- Wait 1–2 minutes
- Restore power and attempt to start a cycle again
Technician Only Test and inspect door switch circuit
- Disconnect power
- Access the door switch assembly
- Check continuity with a multimeter while opening/closing the door
- Inspect wiring harness and connectors for damage or looseness
Parts needed: Door switch, Wiring harness
Technician Only Evaluate control board door input
- After verifying door switch and wiring, test the control board input for the door switch
- Replace control board if input circuits fail to register door status
Parts needed: Control board
- 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.
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.
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.
Wiring Harness
Connects controls, sensors, motors, and other electrical components inside the appliance.
Main Control Board
The central brain of the appliance that controls all components, cycles, and timings.
Model-compatible Dryer 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.
Dryer Vent Cleaning Kit
Helps remove routine lint buildup from an accessible dryer vent path. It does not diagnose or repair an E-code or failed component.
Lint Trap Cleaning Brush
A narrow brush for routine cleaning around an accessible lint screen and housing.
Dryer Vent Hose Kit
A replacement exhaust duct option for visibly crushed or damaged external venting. Check diameter, length, local code, and installation clearance.
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 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: 2026-07-31
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