Fisher & Paykel Top-Load Washer Code 160: Basket engaged during agitate

What 160 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 GWL11, code 160 says the basket has re-engaged itself during agitate. The basket should stay still while the agitator moves. Possible causes are a leak in the air bell, an overloaded basket, or a clutch that has jammed or is fouled by a foreign object.

Common causes of 160

Leak in the air bell
Basket overloaded with clothes
Clutch jammed or fouled by a foreign object

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Stop the cycle, unplug the washer, and remove some of the load. 2. Check the basket and agitator area for small items such as coins or hair clips that may be caught. 3. Run a smaller load on a short cycle. 4. If code 160 returns, stop and book service. The clutch and air bell are under the tub.

! Why to stop there

The air bell and clutch are under the tub and need the washer opened and the tub supported
A foreign object may be lodged out of sight
Continued agitation with a fouled clutch can wear 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.

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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 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 245Fisher & Paykel AquaSmart Code 245: Smart Pump stalled

160160 questions

What does the basket engaging mean?

During agitate the basket should be held still. Code 160 means it started turning with the agitator, so the control stopped the cycle.

Can too many clothes cause it?

Yes, an overloaded basket is one of the listed causes. Try a smaller load first. If the code stays, a leak in the air bell or a fouled clutch needs inspection.

Do you replace the clutch?

Only if testing shows it is the cause. We tell you what we found, quote the price in writing, and give a 30-day workmanship warranty.