Fisher & Paykel EcoSmart Code 252: motor bridge test failed

What 252 means

On Fisher & Paykel AquaSmart and EcoSmart top-load washers such as the WA37T26EW and WA42T26GW, code 252 is a motor bridge test failure. The Motor Control Module tested the motor bridge electronics and sensed current when there should not have been any. The owner sees the washer stop or refuse to start, with 252 shown, since the control will not drive a motor stage that conducts at the wrong time.

Common causes of 252

Motor bridge electronics leaking current in the Motor Control Module
Motor winding or wiring shorting
Module damaged by a power surge

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Unplug the washer for five minutes. 2. Check that the power cord and outlet look undamaged, and plug straight into the wall. 3. Run an empty cycle once. 4. If 252 returns, leave the washer unplugged and call us.

! Why to stop there

Current sensed at the wrong time is an electrical problem that should not be tested casually
A shorted stage can damage other parts if the washer keeps running
We quote the price in writing before work and the repair is covered for 30 days

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 240Fisher & Paykel Top-Load Washer Code 240: Hall sensor out of order 241Fisher & Paykel EcoSmart Code 241: display function time-out 242Fisher & Paykel SmartDrive Phase 6 Code 242: out-of-Balance warning 243Fisher & Paykel EcoSmart Code 243: motor stepper test failed

252252 questions

Why is 252 treated as serious?

The washer found current flowing where none should flow. That points to the control or motor stage conducting incorrectly, so the washer blocks operation instead of risking damage.

Could a power surge be behind it?

It can be. A surge may damage the motor control electronics, and 252 is one way that damage shows up. Using a surge-protected outlet afterward is sensible.

Is it worth repairing?

It depends on which part failed, which we confirm before quoting. You get the written price first, so the decision is yours.