Fisher & Paykel Top-Load Washer Code 234: Lid lock open circuit

What 234 means

On Fisher & Paykel AquaSmart and EcoSmart top-load washers such as the WA37T26EW and WA42T26GW, and SmartDrive Phase 6 models like the GWL11, code 234 means the lid lock circuit reads as open. The harness to the lid lock, the connections at the motor control module, or the lid lock itself may be at issue. The washer will not start or continue a spin while the lock cannot be confirmed.

Common causes of 234

Open circuit in the lid lock harness
Loose connection at the motor control module or at the lid lock
Lid lock itself failed

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Close the lid firmly and make sure nothing is caught under it. 2. Turn the washer off and unplug it for a minute. 3. Plug in and try a short spin. 4. Do not tape or force the lid. If code 234 returns, stop using the washer and call us; the lid lock and harness need meter testing.

! Why to stop there

Lid locks protect you from a spinning drum, so they must not be bypassed
The harness and lock need continuity tests
Connections at the module are inside the cabinet

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 246Fisher & Paykel AquaSmart Code 246: wash boost valve error 247Fisher & Paykel AquaSmart Code 247: Smart Pump flapper error 248Fisher & Paykel AquaSmart Code 248: Smart Pump top-up error 249Fisher & Paykel AquaSmart Code 249: pump timed out, no level change

234234 questions

What does an open circuit mean here?

The control sees a break in the lid lock circuit. That can be the lock, the harness, or a connector at either end.

Can I bypass the lock?

No. The lock keeps the lid closed while the drum spins. Bypassing it is dangerous and we will not do it.

What do you replace?

Only what testing shows. We quote the price in writing and give a 30-day workmanship warranty.