Kenmore Error Code F42 — Error Code F42

Service Guy AI • Washer • Medium severity • Intermediate skill • ~30 min repair

Quick fix: Check for clogs in the drain hose and clear them if necessary.

What Does Kenmore Error Code F42 Mean?

Kenmore washer: Error Code F42

This is a medium-severity fault. The machine may complete the current cycle but is signalling a problem you should resolve before it escalates.

Possible Causes (4)

Kenmore engineers identify the following root causes for fault code F42. Work through them in the order shown — they are listed from most common to least common.

  1. Faulty pressure switch preventing proper water level detection.
  2. Clogged drain pump affecting water drainage.
  3. Malfunctioning control board causing communication errors.
  4. Door interlock failure preventing the washer from operating.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting (5 steps)

Follow this sequence to diagnose and clear Kenmore error code F42. Power down and unplug the machine before any internal inspection.

  1. Disconnect power before servicing.
  2. Check the pressure switch for proper operation and replace if faulty.
  3. Inspect the drain pump for clogs and clear any obstructions.
  4. Examine the control board for visible damage or burnt components.
  5. Test the door interlock for continuity and replace if necessary.

Required Parts

Have these Kenmore OEM part numbers ready before starting the repair. AAdvantage Laundry Systems carries verified parts for every code in this database.

  • Pressure switch
  • Drain pump
  • Control board
  • Wire harness
  • Water level sensor

Diagnostic Test Mode

Enter Kenmore diagnostic test mode: Press and hold the 'Start' and 'Pause/Cancel' buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds.

Skill Level & Repair Time

This repair is appropriate for an experienced laundromat owner or in-house technician. You should be comfortable removing service panels, reading wiring diagrams, and using a multimeter to test continuity and voltage. Plan for approximately 30 minutes of active repair time once parts are on hand.

Get AI-Powered Diagnosis

If the steps above don't resolve Kenmore F42, run a free Service Guy AI diagnosis. Upload a photo of the error display and get an AI-generated repair plan tied to your exact Kenmore model number, including supplier links for required parts and on-call technician escalation.

Other Kenmore Error Codes

F14 — Error Code F14F20 — Error Code F20F01 — Error Code F01F02 — Error Code F02F28 — Error Code F28F33 — Error Code F33F30 — Error Code F30LD — Error Code LD
All Kenmore Error CodesAll Error CodesService Guy AI DiagnosisOrder OEM PartsEquipment Hub

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By — Founder, WashBizHub. Third-generation laundromat operator. Reviewed by the WashBizHub editorial team.

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