Frigidaire Washing Machine E41 error code

The control thinks the lid or door is open. Until it gets a closed signal, it will not start or spin the drum.

Also shown as: E41

Last updated: October 6, 2026

Quick answer: Frigidaire washing machine error code E41: lid reads as open. The most common cause is lid or door not fully closed. Try this first — close the lid firmly. If that does not clear it, inspect the lid strike and latch.

What causes the E41 error?

  • Lid or door not fully closed
  • Broken lid strike or door latch
  • Faulty lid switch or door lock assembly
  • Lid misaligned or warped
  • Clothing trapped between lid and frame
  • Wiring fault to the lid switch

How to fix Frigidaire E41 — step by step

Work through these in order, from simplest and safest first. Stop as soon as the code clears.

  1. Close the lid firmly
    Open the lid fully, check that no clothing is caught in the rim or hinge area, then close the lid firmly until you hear the latch click. Start the cycle again.
  2. Inspect the lid strike and latch
    Look at the plastic strike (the tab on the lid that enters the lock) and the lock opening on the washer. If the strike is cracked, bent, or missing, the switch never engages. Strikes are cheap parts; a technician can replace one quickly.
  3. Power-reset the washer
    Unplug the washer for 5 minutes, then plug it back in and try again. This clears a false lid-open reading from a control glitch.
  4. Call a technician for switch replacement
    If the lid closes fine and the strike looks intact but E41 persists, the lid switch or door lock assembly has failed electrically. Testing and replacement are technician work.
    Safety warning: Do not bypass the lid switch. It is a safety device that prevents the drum from spinning with the lid open.

When to call a technician

Stop and call a qualified technician if any of these apply:
  • The lid strike or latch is broken
  • E41 persists with the lid firmly closed
  • The door lock assembly needs replacement
  • The wiring to the lid switch is damaged

Frequently asked questions

Can I bypass E41 and run the washer anyway?

You must fix E41 first. The washer will not fill, agitate, or spin until the control is satisfied the lid is closed. It is a safety interlock.

Should I slam the lid shut?

Slamming can crack the strike or knock the switch out of alignment and make things worse. Close it firmly, but do not force it.

Is E41 the same as the child lock?

Child-lock features lock the controls, not the lid switch. E41 is specifically the lid-closed signal, so a control lock shows a different indicator.

Sources

Every meaning and fix above was checked against official manufacturer documentation:

FixCode provides general troubleshooting information only — not professional repair advice. If you are unsure about any step, stop and call a qualified technician. Repairs done incorrectly can be dangerous and may void your warranty.

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