Error code · Washer

Kenmore 110 Top-Load Washer Code F5 E3: Lid stuck shut after the cycle

Medium · inspection needed

Code: F5 E3
Appliance: Washer
Brand: Kenmore
Warranty: 30-day workmanship

What F5 E3 means

Kenmore washers whose model numbers start with 110. are a Whirlpool-built top-load platform sold as VMW and VMAX. F5 E3 on these washers means the lid lock did not release when the cycle ended. The lid stays shut and the display shows F5 E3. The cause sits in the lid lock and switch assembly, in the strike it grips or in the wiring that tells it to let go. Forcing the lid is how damage starts, so do not pry it.

Common causes of F5 E3

Lid lock and switch assembly that will not release
Lock strike jammed or bent
Wiring on the lock assembly or its signal from the main board

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Let the washer finish and drain, and check whether the lid is held only by the lock. 2. Do not pry or pull hard at the lid. 3. Unplug the washer if water is still in the tub and call us. 4. Clear lint and detergent from the lid edge while you wait.

! Why to stop there

Whether the lock assembly is jammed or simply not told to release
Whether the strike has been bent by earlier forcing
Whether the wiring behind the lock is sound

Opening a panel yourself does not automatically cancel a manufacturer warranty, but it can cause accidental damage, and some manufacturers set their own service conditions. Check your warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.

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Other Washer codes

SdKenmore HE5 Steam Front-Load Washer Code Sd: Suds not cleared Sd or F71Kenmore 110 Oasis Top-Load Washer Codes Sd and F71: Excessive suds SFKenmore 402 Front-Load Washer Code SF: Control board error SLKenmore Calypso Top-Load Washer Code SL: Excessive suds Spin LED onKenmore 110 VMW Top-Load Washer Spin Light On: Drain took too long Sud / SUDSKenmore Washer Codes Sud and SUDS: Excessive suds on 110, 796 and 402 front-loads tEKenmore 796 Washer Code tE: Thermistor and heating UEKenmore 796 Washer Code UE: Unbalanced load

F5 E3F5 E3 questions

My lid will not open after the cycle ended, is that F5 E3?

It means the lid lock failed to unlock. On this Whirlpool-built VMW and VMAX platform the control did not release the lid when the cycle ended, or could not confirm it.

Can I open the lid by force?

We advise against it. Prying can snap the lock assembly or strike and turn a simple repair into a larger one. If clothes must come out now, call us and we will free it properly.

Does F5 E3 mean the lock is broken?

Not always. It can also be a wiring or signal problem rather than the lock assembly itself. We test the lock, its wiring and the board before recommending any part, and you get a written price first.

Book a visit

Still seeing F5 E3?

A technician diagnoses it on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.

(713) 955-7152