Code: E01🧺 Smeg Washer

Smeg Washing Machine E01 Error Code: Door Not Shut Properly

Reviewed 2026-10-26 · Based on 3 manufacturer & service sources

What the code means

Smeg's washing machine user manual (for example the LBW50CIT, in its "Automatic fault warnings and what to do" section) lists E01 as "the door of your machine is not shut properly". Machines without a numeric display show it as a combination of flashing wash-progress lights (Wash, Rinse, Spin, End) rather than as text. Smeg's action is to shut the door properly until you hear a click, and if the machine still shows the fault, to turn it off, unplug it and contact the nearest authorised service agent. The same manual's operating section says to check that no laundry is trapped between the rubber seal and the door and to push the door gently until it clicks, because the programme won't start unless the door is fully closed. Smeg UK's help page puts E01 in the group of codes that need an engineer visit once the simple check hasn't cleared it. Neighbouring codes help narrow things down: E02 is low water pressure or water level, E03 is a pump or pump filter problem, and E04 is too much water in the machine. If your display shows OPEN instead, Smeg UK says that also just means the door needs closing properly.

Likely causes

Safe DIY checks

⚠ Before you start

Unplug the appliance (or switch off its breaker) and shut off the water supply valves before removing panels or disconnecting hoses. Keep towels handy for residual water.

  1. Open the door and check the rubber seal all the way round for clothing caught in it, then push the door gently until you hear it click.
  2. Turn the machine off, unplug it for a minute or two, plug it back in and start the programme again. This clears a one-off E01 that came from the door not being fully shut.
  3. With the machine unplugged, look at the hook on the door. If it's bent, cracked or loose, or the door has dropped on its hinges so the hook misses the slot, that part needs replacing or the door needs realigning.
  4. Never force the door open while the machine is running; Smeg says it unlocks shortly after the cycle ends.
  5. If E01 comes back with the door properly shut and nothing in the seal, stop there: Smeg's instruction is to turn it off, unplug it and call an authorised service agent.

🛠 When to call a pro

  • The door clicks shut and nothing is caught in the seal, but E01 still comes back.
  • The door lock clicks but the machine never starts, or the door won't lock at all.
  • You'd need to remove the front panel or door seal to reach the lock, which means working near mains-voltage wiring.
  • The machine is under warranty: Smeg UK lists 0330 094 7779 for in-warranty repairs, and it also has a find-an-engineer service for out-of-warranty machines.

Parts that commonly fix it

Always match the part number to your exact model.

⚙

Smeg washing machine door lock (interlock)

The usual part when the door shuts properly but E01 stays. Match it to the model and serial number on the label inside the door.

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⚙

Washing machine door hook

Only if the hook on the door is bent, cracked or worn.

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⚙

Multimeter

For an engineer-style check of the door lock and its wiring with the machine unplugged.

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Sources

  1. Smeg LBW50CIT washing machine user manual, section 10 Automatic fault warnings (E01: door not shut properly, shut until it clicks, otherwise turn off, unplug and call an authorised service agent; E02, E03, E04 for contrast) and section 5.4 (check laundry isn't trapped in the seal, door must be fully closed)
  2. Smeg UK help: I have an error code on my washing machine or washer dryer (E01 needs an engineer visit; OPEN means close the door properly)
  3. Smeg Service UK: Find a Smeg engineer (0330 094 7779 for in-warranty appliances)

Last reviewed 2026-10-26. Always confirm against the manual for your exact model number.