Dishwashers Medium Severity
F5 Appliance Error Code

Fisher & Paykel Dishwashers F5 Error: Lid actuator fault

Fisher & Paykel dishwasher error code F5 is a mid-severity fault meaning Lid actuator fault — drawer lid position error. The DishDrawer cannot wash with an active F5 lid fault — it will not start a cycle. A power-cycle resets the fault latch.

By Denis Yuzhaev Lead Appliance Repair Specialist & Technical Writer

~45%

DIY Fixable

From $150

Typical Repair Cost

1–3 hrs

Pro Repair Time

Quick Assessment

Answer to continue safely

Is it safe to keep using?

No. The DishDrawer cannot wash with an active F5 lid fault — it will not start a cycle. Do not attempt to override or force the lid, as this may damage the actuator linkage. Resolve the fault before operating the appliance.

Can I reset the code?

Yes. A power-cycle resets the fault latch. If the underlying obstruction or mechanical issue has been resolved, F5 should not return. If F5 persists after clearing the lid mechanism, the actuator motor or position sensor requires replacement.

When to stop immediately?

Stop if you notice: Lid makes grinding or cracking sounds when attempting to move, F5 returns immediately after clearing the lid area and power-cycling.

Symptoms You May Notice

F5 displayed when attempting to start a cycle

The DishDrawer shows F5 and will not begin washing because the controller cannot confirm the drawer lid is in the correct closed position.

Lid does not open or close smoothly

The motorised lid actuator mechanism that raises and lowers the lid as the drawer opens and closes is binding, stalling, or moving in jerks.

Drawer opens but lid stays down

The lid fails to rise when the drawer is opened, indicating the actuator motor or linkage has failed.

Possible Causes

1

Failed lid actuator motor

The small electric motor that drives the lid open-and-close mechanism has burned out or seized.

Requires Professional
2

Obstruction in lid mechanism

A foreign object — cutlery, a small utensil, or a food item — has fallen into the lid actuator linkage and is preventing full travel.

DIY Possible
3

Faulty lid position sensor

The microswitch or Hall-effect sensor that confirms lid position has failed or become misaligned, preventing the controller from detecting a correctly closed lid.

Requires Professional
4

Damaged lid actuator linkage

The mechanical linkage arms that translate actuator motor rotation into lid movement have cracked or come off their pivot points.

Requires Professional
5

Lid gasket too stiff or displaced

A very stiff or incorrectly seated lid gasket is resisting lid movement, causing the actuator motor to stall under load.

DIY Possible

Safe Checks You Can Do

These checks are safe for homeowners. No disassembly required. Do not remove panels or access internal components.
  1. 1

    Check for obstructions in the lid mechanism

    Open the drawer fully and inspect the lid hinge area and the actuator linkage channels on both sides of the drawer for any foreign objects. Remove any obstruction carefully.

    Tall glasses and cutlery handles that protrude above the rack are the most common items to jam the lid linkage on DishDrawer models.

  2. 2

    Manually test lid movement

    With the drawer open and the unit unplugged, gently try to lift and lower the lid by hand. It should move with slight spring resistance but not feel locked. Any grinding or clicking indicates a mechanical linkage issue.

    Do not force the lid — forcing it against a jammed actuator can crack the linkage arm.

  3. 3

    Inspect lid gasket seating

    Check that the rubber lid gasket is seated evenly in its retaining channel all the way around. A bunched or displaced section of gasket can create enough resistance to stall the lid actuator motor.

    Press the gasket firmly back into its channel with your thumb if any section has pulled out.

  4. 4

    Power-cycle after clearing obstruction

    Once any obstruction is cleared and the lid moves freely by hand, power-cycle the drawer at the wall switch. The controller will re-run the lid position check on the next start attempt.

    If F5 clears and the lid moves normally, the fault was a temporary obstruction rather than a failed component.

When to Call a Professional

Contact a qualified technician if:

  • Lid actuator motor has seized or burned out — requires motor assembly replacement
  • Lid position sensor (microswitch or Hall-effect) is faulty and needs replacement
  • Actuator linkage arm cracked or off pivot — requires chassis disassembly

Need Professional Help?

Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.

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