Fisher & Paykel SmartDrive Code 131: repeating rotor position sensor error

What 131 means

Code 131 on Fisher & Paykel SmartDrive Phase 1 to 6 top-load washers means a repetitive rotor position sensor error. It is related to code 130, but here the sensor problem repeats in a continuous pattern instead of occurring once. The motor can no longer tell where the rotor is, so the washer stops agitating or spinning and the display shows 131.

Common causes of 131

Rotor position sensor signal repeatedly wrong or missing
Motor connection to the Motor Control Module intermittent
Motor Control Module not reading the position signal

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Stop the cycle and unplug the washer, or switch off its breaker, for a full minute. 2. Check that the load is not jamming the basket. 3. Restart with a small load. 4. If 131 comes back, stop using the washer and call us; motor testing is not a home job.

! Why to stop there

The position sensor is built into the motor assembly under the tub.
Running the motor without a valid position signal can damage the drive electronics.
We quote in writing before work and cover repairs with a 30-day workmanship warranty.

Opening a panel yourself does not automatically cancel a manufacturer warranty, but it can cause accidental damage, and some manufacturers set their own service conditions. Check your warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.

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Other Washer codes

KEY LOCFisher & Paykel WH2424 Front-Load Message "KEY LOC": control panel is locked no tAPFisher & Paykel WH2424 Front-Load Message "no tAP": water not reaching the washer out OF bALFisher & Paykel WH2424 Front-Load Message "out OF bAL": load needs rebalancing Sud LOCFisher & Paykel WH2424 Front-Load Message "Sud LOC": too many suds, washer paused 240Fisher & Paykel Top-Load Washer Code 240: Hall sensor out of order Err + numberFisher & Paykel WH2424 Front-Load Display "Err" With a Number: washer stopped with an error code 241Fisher & Paykel EcoSmart Code 241: display function time-out 242Fisher & Paykel SmartDrive Phase 6 Code 242: out-of-Balance warning

131131 questions

How is 131 different from 130?

Both involve the rotor position sensor. Code 131 points to a repeated, continuous pattern of errors, while 130 describes a single occurrence. Our technician reads which part of the motor circuit is failing.

Does the washer still wash with 131?

It usually stops, because the motor cannot be controlled without knowing the rotor position. Expect the cycle to halt or refuse to start. Do not keep retrying, since each attempt strains the drive.

Can a heavy load cause it?

A jammed load can stall the motor, but 131 itself comes from the position sensor signal. If the code returns with a light load, the sensor path needs a technician.