Fisher & Paykel Dishwashers F6 Error: Wash motor fault
Fisher & Paykel dishwasher error code F6 is a mid-severity fault meaning Wash motor fault. A wash motor fault means the DishDrawer cannot complete a wash cycle and dishes will not be cleaned. A power-cycle will clear the F6 latch.
~40%
DIY Fixable
From $195
Typical Repair Cost
1–3 hrs
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
No. A wash motor fault means the DishDrawer cannot complete a wash cycle and dishes will not be cleaned. The unit will fault out mid-cycle, leaving stagnant water in the tub. Do not leave stagnant water sitting for extended periods — drain it manually and arrange repair.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. A power-cycle will clear the F6 latch. If the impeller was blocked and has been cleared, F6 should not return. If F6 persists, the motor assembly or board requires professional diagnosis.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: Motor produces a burning smell during the wash phase, F6 returns after every cycle despite a clear filter and sump.
Symptoms You May Notice
F6 displayed mid-cycle
The drawer fills with water and attempts to start washing, then displays F6 and stops when the controller detects the motor is not running or drawing abnormal current.
No spray during wash — silent tub
Water is present in the tub but no wash arm spray is heard; the tub is silent during the wash phase.
Unusual humming or grinding from tub base
A seized or partially blocked wash motor may hum under load without spinning, or produce a grinding noise from debris in the impeller.
Possible Causes
Foreign object in wash pump impeller
A small piece of broken glass, a fruit stone, or a label has lodged in the wash pump impeller housing, jamming the rotor.
DIY PossibleFailed wash motor / pump assembly
The motor windings or bearings have worn out, causing the motor to draw high current or not spin at all.
Requires ProfessionalFaulty motor speed sensor (tachometer)
The Hall-effect tachometer that reports motor RPM to the controller has failed, causing the board to think the motor is not running even when it is.
Requires ProfessionalControl board motor driver fault
The motor driver section of the main PCB has failed, preventing the motor from receiving drive voltage.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Clean the filter and sump area
Remove the lower spray arm and the filter basket at the base of the tub. Check the sump opening for any foreign objects — glass fragments, fruit stones, or wire ties — that could be jamming the wash pump impeller.
Always wear protective gloves when reaching into the sump area in case of broken glass.
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2
Try rotating the pump impeller manually
After unplugging, use a torch and a long flat-blade screwdriver to try gently rotating the impeller through the filter opening. If it is completely locked, a foreign object is jammed in the pump housing.
The impeller should turn with moderate resistance. If it spins freely with no resistance, the motor shaft may be disconnected from the impeller.
Tools required -
3
Power-cycle after clearing blockage
Once any obstruction is removed and the impeller spins freely, power-cycle the drawer and run a short cycle. Listen for normal wash arm spray.
F6 should clear if the only issue was a jammed impeller.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Foreign object is lodged inside the sealed pump housing beyond the accessible sump opening
- Wash motor has failed (locked rotor, worn bearings) and requires pump assembly replacement
- Motor tachometer fault or board motor driver failure — requires specialist testing
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
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