Motor Error (Drum Not Turning)

What it means

This code mostly appears on older Siemens front-load washing machines that use F codes, and means the drum did not turn even though the control board drove the motor, or the speed sensor did not send a correct rotation signal. Causes range from a bunched load or trapped object to the carbon brushes, the motor or the board. The same number can mean something else on other brands.

Models covered: Siemens front-load washing machines; newer models show E codes, older ones F codes.

Related codes: E17E18E23

Symptoms4

• The drum stays still although the washer has filled, then F21 shows.
• The drum makes a short jerk and stops.
• A rough or scraping sound when turning the drum by hand.
• The code comes up more with large loads than small ones.

Possible causes7

• A load bunched on one side or a large item such as a duvet stopping rotation.
• A small metal object trapped between the drum and the tub.
• Worn motor carbon brushes.
• A broken or loose motor or speed sensor connection.
• A damaged motor.
• A fault in the motor drive circuit on the board.
• Transit bolts not removed after moving or first installing the washer.

How to diagnose5

1. Unplug the washer and drain the water through the pump filter into a tray.
2. Take out the laundry and turn the drum by hand; it should turn easily with no scraping.
3. If the washer was recently moved, make sure the rear transit bolts are removed.
4. A technician unplugs the washer before opening it, then checks the brushes, motor connection and speed sensor against the manufacturer specification.
5. If the motor and its parts are fine, the technician checks the board.

How to fix5

1. Spread out or reduce the load and restart.
2. Have the technician remove the object trapped between drum and tub.
3. Replace worn carbon brushes as a pair.
4. Repair the connection or replace the speed sensor.
5. Replace the motor or board if confirmed faulty, then run an empty spin program to confirm normal rotation.

Repair cost

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

The cost is small for the load or brushes, and much higher for a new motor or control board.

Prices are rough estimates including the part and the technician’s fee, and vary with brand, model and part source.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions