Fisher & Paykel Top-Load Washer Code 136: Motor stall, unable to start the motor

What 136 means

On Fisher & Paykel AquaSmart and EcoSmart top-load washers such as the WA37T26EW and WA42T26GW, and SmartDrive Phase 1 to 6 models like the GWL15, code 136 means the motor control module has been unable to start the motor. Possible causes include a bad motor harness, a jammed or damaged motor, seized bearings or seals, or the motor control module itself. The drum will not turn and the number shows.

Common causes of 136

Motor harness damaged or loose
Motor jammed, or bearings and seals seized
Motor control module unable to start the motor

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Power off and unplug the washer. 2. Take out the clothes and check that the drum is not overloaded or wedged by something between drum and tub. 3. Try turning the basket by hand with the lid open. 4. Plug back in and run one empty spin. 5. If code 136 returns or the drum feels stuck, stop and call us.

! Why to stop there

A seized bearing or jammed motor needs the machine opened and the tub supported
The harness and module require meter checks before a part is chosen
Forcing a stuck drum can break the drive

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.

→Same appliance

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 234Fisher & Paykel Top-Load Washer Code 234: Lid lock open circuit 252Fisher & Paykel EcoSmart Code 252: motor bridge test failed 235Fisher & Paykel Top-Load Washer Code 235: Lid lock short circuit 253Fisher & Paykel AquaSmart Top-Load Code 253: SmartPump drawing high current

136136 questions

What does motor stall mean?

The control tried to start the motor and it would not turn. Code 136 can come from wiring, a jammed motor, seized bearings or seals, or the control module.

Can a heavy load cause it?

A badly overloaded or wedged basket can add enough resistance. Try an empty spin first. If it still stalls, a mechanical or electrical cause is likely.

Is repair practical?

Often, depending on what is stuck or damaged. We diagnose first, quote in writing, and give a 30-day workmanship warranty on the work.