What Does Error Code E45 Mean on an Electrolux Washing Machine?
Power off the machine at the wall socket, wait 10 minutes, then switch it back on and attempt to restart the cycle — this resets the control board and clears a temporary relay fault in many cases (takes about 10 minutes).
Fault description
Error code E45 points to a fault in the electronic component — specifically a relay or triac — that controls the door lock mechanism on your Electrolux washing machine. This is a control board-level fault rather than a simple door latch problem, meaning the board is either sending the wrong signal to the lock or failing to release it correctly.
When E45 appears, the machine will typically stop mid-cycle or refuse to start, and the door may remain locked even after the programme ends. The display shows E45 and the machine will not respond to further commands until the fault is cleared.
In some cases this is a temporary electronic glitch that a power reset will resolve. In others, the relay or triac on the main PCB has physically failed and will need to be replaced. Working through the steps below will help you identify which situation you are dealing with.
Causes
- Temporary control board glitch — A power surge or brief voltage fluctuation can cause the relay or triac to latch in the wrong state. A full power reset often clears this without any parts being needed.
- Failed relay or triac on the main PCB — The relay or triac that switches power to the door lock solenoid can burn out or become stuck. This is a component-level failure on the main control board and is the most common hardware cause of E45.
- Faulty door lock assembly — If the door lock unit itself has an internal short or is drawing excessive current, it can cause the relay on the PCB to fail or trip. The lock and the board should both be checked when this error appears.
- Damaged wiring between PCB and door lock — Worn, pinched, or corroded wiring in the harness connecting the control board to the door lock can cause incorrect signals and trigger E45. This is more common on older machines or those that have been moved recently.
- Water or moisture damage to the control board — A slow leak from the detergent drawer or drum seal can allow moisture to reach the PCB over time, causing relay or triac failure. Visible corrosion or burn marks on the board are signs of this.
Step-by-Step Fix
- 1
Perform a full power reset
Switch the machine off at the wall socket — not just the appliance button — and leave it unplugged for at least 10 minutes. This allows the control board capacitors to fully discharge and can clear a temporary relay fault. Plug back in, select a short programme, and check whether E45 returns.
- 2
Check the door is fully closed and latching
Open and firmly close the door, making sure you hear a clear click from the latch. A door that is not fully engaging can confuse the lock circuit. Inspect the door catch and the strike on the machine body for any visible damage or debris preventing a solid close.
- 3
Inspect the door lock wiring harness
With the machine unplugged, remove the door seal and the front panel or top panel depending on your model to access the door lock. Check the wiring connector at the lock for corrosion, loose pins, or visible damage. Reseat the connector firmly and check the wire run back towards the control board for any pinching or chafing.
- 4
Test the door lock assembly
Using a multimeter set to resistance, test the door lock solenoid terminals — a healthy interlock typically reads between 100 and 200 ohms depending on the model. An open circuit (OL) or very low reading suggests the lock itself has failed and should be replaced before assuming the PCB is at fault.
- 5
Inspect the main control board for visible damage
With the machine unplugged, locate the main PCB — usually behind the top or rear panel. Look closely at the relay and surrounding components for burn marks, swollen capacitors, or corrosion. If you can identify a visibly damaged relay or triac, a qualified service technician can replace that component or the full board.
- 6
Replace the door lock assembly
If the lock tests faulty, fit a compatible replacement door lock for your Electrolux model. Disconnect the old unit, transfer the wiring connector to the new lock, and secure it in place. Run a test cycle to confirm E45 has cleared before reassembling the panels.
- 7
Replace or repair the main control board
If the door lock tests healthy but E45 persists, the relay or triac on the PCB has most likely failed. A direct board replacement is the most reliable fix for a non-technical homeowner. Ensure you source a board matched to your exact model number, as PCBs are not interchangeable between models.
Affected models
Select your model to see its full troubleshooting page.
When to call a service technician
If you have replaced the door lock and the error code E45 still appears after a power reset, the fault almost certainly lies within the main control board itself. Relay and triac replacement at component level requires soldering skills and specialist equipment — this is not a practical DIY repair for most homeowners, and an incorrect repair can create a safety hazard.
You should also call a service technician if you find burn marks, melted plastic, or a smell of burning near the control board, or if the door remains locked and you cannot safely retrieve laundry. A technician can confirm whether the board needs repair or full replacement and carry out the work safely.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to use the washing machine while it shows E45?
No. E45 indicates a fault in the electronic component controlling the door lock, which means the machine cannot guarantee the door will stay locked during a spin cycle. You should not run the machine until the fault has been diagnosed and resolved.
My door is stuck locked after E45 appeared — how do I open it?
Most Electrolux washing machines have a manual door release. Check behind the kick panel at the bottom front of the machine for a small pull tab or cord — pulling this releases the door lock manually. Consult your model's user manual for the exact location if you cannot find it.
Can E45 be caused by a power cut?
Yes. A sudden power cut or voltage spike can cause the relay or triac to latch incorrectly, triggering E45 when power is restored. A 10-minute power reset resolves this in many cases. If the error returns after the reset, a hardware fault is more likely.
How much does it cost to fix an E45 error on an Electrolux washing machine?
A replacement door lock assembly typically costs between £20 and £50 for parts. A new main control board is more expensive, usually £80 to £180 depending on the model. If you call a service technician, add labour costs on top of the parts price.
Will resetting the machine permanently fix E45?
A power reset will permanently fix E45 only if the cause was a temporary electronic glitch. If the relay, triac, or door lock has physically failed, the error will return as soon as you run another cycle. Persistent E45 after a reset always points to a hardware fault that needs attention.