Hotpoint Washer F06 Error Code: Door Lock Fault (Door Won't Lock, Open or Start)

What the code means

Hotpoint UK's washing machine and washer dryer error code guides both list F06 as a "Door lock fault". The symptoms they give are that the door can't be opened or closed, or that when the door is closed the machine will not start. Hotpoint's own advice is to check for any obstructions in the door lock if the door won't close, and to book an engineer if the fault remains. Indesit, Hotpoint's sister brand, lists F06 the same way. In practice, the control board uses the door lock to confirm the door is shut and locked before it fills or spins, and F06 means it isn't getting the signal it expects. The cause can be something simple, such as clothing caught in the catch, or a broken handle or latch hook, a failed door lock, its wiring, or the control board. F06 is not the same as F05, where the door stays shut because water hasn't drained. If your machine shows F05, deal with the drain first. This page covers UK and European Hotpoint models; US Hotpoint washers are made by GE and use different codes.

Likely causes

• Clothing, a sock or debris caught in the door catch, so the door can't close and lock properly (Hotpoint's first check)
• A broken door handle, latch hook or locking lever, so the hook doesn't engage the lock
• A faulty door lock (interlock) that doesn't lock, doesn't release, or doesn't report its position to the control board
• Loose, damaged or water-damaged wiring and connectors between the door lock and the control board
• Less often, a fault on the main control board
• On machines made between October 2014 and February 2018, the door lock may be part of Whirlpool's UK safety recall, so check before any other repair

Safe DIY checks

1. Check your model and serial number (inside the door or on the rear label) with Whirlpool's washing machine recall checker. If it's affected, unplug it and follow the recall instructions instead of repairing it yourself.
2. Make sure the drum is empty of water. If water is left inside, treat it as a drain problem (F05) first and don't force the door.
3. Look around the door catch and seal for clothing or debris, clear it, and close the door firmly until it clicks.
4. Switch the machine off at the plug for a few minutes, plug it back in and try the programme again.
5. If the door is locked shut with no water inside and the machine is unplugged, many models have an emergency release cord behind the lower front panel near the pump filter. Check your instruction booklet first, and never open the door with hot water inside.
6. If F06 comes back, or the handle or latch hook is visibly broken, book an engineer (Hotpoint UK 0344 822 4224).

Parts that commonly fix it

Always match the part number to your exact model.

Related codes

• F01 Hotpoint Washer F01
• F05 Hotpoint Washer F05
• F08 Hotpoint Washer F08
• F09 Hotpoint Washer F09
• F13 Hotpoint Washer F13

All Hotpoint codes →

Sources

1. Hotpoint UK: Washing Machine Error Codes Troubleshooting Guide (F06 door lock fault: door can't be opened or closed, or won't start when closed; check for obstructions in the door lock, then book an engineer; door lock recall notice)
2. Hotpoint UK: Washer Dryer Error Codes (F06 door lock fault, same advice)
3. Indesit Service UK: Washing Machine Error Codes (F06 door lock fault)
4. Whirlpool UK washing machine recall FAQ (door lock component can overheat when the heater runs; unplug; model and serial check; 0800 316 1442) (PDF)
5. Electrical Safety First: Hotpoint and Indesit washing machines recall (2014 to 2018, door catch can overheat)
6. iFixit: How to Fix the Indesit Washing Machine F06 Error Code (power reset, green emergency release cord, handle and lever checks; applies to Indesit, Hotpoint and compatible models)