Westinghouse Dryer Error E97
⚡ Quick Answer: The Westinghouse dryer E97 error indicates a malfunction in the electronic control board, often resulting in the dryer failing to start or completing ... ✅ DIY Fixable
What Does Error E97 Mean?
The Westinghouse dryer E97 error indicates a malfunction in the electronic control board, often resulting in the dryer failing to start or completing a drying cycle. This error suggests an internal communication failure or corrupted program data within the control system, which can lead to erratic behavior of the appliance.
Common Symptoms:
- Dryer stops operation and displays E97 on the control panel
- Drying cycle may not start or complete
Possible Causes
- Internal electronic control communication failure or corrupted program data (medium)
How to Fix Error E97
DIY Fix Power cycle and basic checks
- Unplug the dryer from the power outlet or switch off the circuit breaker.
- Wait at least 5–10 minutes to allow residual charge to dissipate.
- Reconnect power and try restarting the dryer.
- Ensure the dryer’s lint filter and condenser (if applicable) are clean.
Technician Only Inspect and replace electronic control board
- Verify the error persists after power cycling and basic checks.
- Check wiring and connectors to the main control board for loose or damaged connections.
- Test communication lines between control boards (if multiple boards are present).
- Replace the electronic control board with a verified part (e.g., part #809160311) if faults are confirmed.
Parts needed: Electronic control board (e.g., part #809160311), Wiring harnesses and connectors as needed
- If the error persists after power cycling and basic checks
- If there are visible signs of damage (burn marks, smoke odor) around control electronics
- If you are not experienced with appliance electrical diagnostics
Next step
Choose the next step for E97
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
Main Control Board
The central brain of the appliance that controls all components, cycles, and timings.
- Typical part-only price
- $120 - $280
- DIY difficulty
- Medium
- Estimated time
- 20-40 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.
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 E97 error mean on Westinghouse dryer?
E97 indicates a malfunction in the electronic control board, causing the dryer to fail to start or complete cycles.
Can I fix Westinghouse dryer E97 error myself?
Yes, try power cycling the dryer by unplugging it for 5-10 minutes, then reconnecting.
How much does it cost to fix E97 error?
Repair costs range from USD 180 to 300, including parts and labor.
When should I call a technician for E97?
Call a technician if the error persists after power cycling, or if you see damage around the control electronics.
Data last verified: 2026-07-31
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