Error E56 in Electrolux washing machine

Error E56 in Electrolux washing machine

Description

Error: E56 — The electronic control reports no tachometer (tachogenerator) data. In practice this indicates a problem with the motor feedback or its control components. In many cases the root cause may be the tachogenerator, motor brushes or coils, or power-control components such as the TRIAC/relay on the electronic board.

Possible causes

• Faulty or disconnected tachogenerator (tachometer)
• Worn or damaged motor brushes
• Open or shorted motor coils
• Defective TRIAC or relay on the electronic control board
• Loose, corroded or damaged motor wiring and connectors
• Damaged or malfunctioning electronic control board

Recommended troubleshooting (step-by-step)

1. Safety first: Disconnect the appliance from mains power before any inspection or work.
2. Perform a visual inspection: check motor connectors, wiring harnesses and the tachogenerator connector for loose contacts, corrosion or physical damage.
3. Check the tachogenerator: inspect for physical damage and measure signal/continuity according to the service manual. No signal or open circuit indicates a faulty tachogenerator.
4. Inspect motor brushes: verify brush length and contact. Worn brushes or poor contact can cause loss of tachometer feedback and motor faults.
5. Test motor windings: measure continuity of the coils. Open or shorted windings require motor repair or replacement.
6. Check the control electronics: inspect the PCB for burnt components or visible damage. Test the TRIAC and relay (components that drive the motor) for proper operation — a failed TRIAC or relay can prevent motor control and stop tachometer readings.
7. Repair or replace the faulty part: replace the defective component (tachogenerator, brushes, motor, TRIAC/relay or control board) as indicated by your tests.
8. Reconnect and run a test cycle to confirm the error is cleared.

Components to check — what to look for

• Tachogenerator (tachometer): check connectors, measure output signal while spinning shaft (service manual values) or check continuity.
• Motor brushes: check wear, spring tension and carbon contact; replace if worn.
• Motor coils: measure resistance; look for burns or insulation damage.
• TRIAC and relay: look for short circuits, burnt marks, or component failure on the PCB; test with proper equipment or swap with a known good part if available.
• Wiring and connectors: ensure all plugs are tight and free of corrosion; repair broken wires or pins.
• Electronic control board: inspect for damaged components or solder joints; replacement may be required if board faults are found.

When to replace parts

Replace the specific spare part when testing confirms it is defective or when there is clear physical damage. Typical replacements for E56 are the tachogenerator, motor brushes or the TRIAC/relay on the electronic board. If multiple components show faults, consider replacing the motor or the electronic control board as recommended by the manufacturer or a technician.

More tips

• Always disconnect mains power before opening the appliance.
• Document steps and measurements to help diagnosis or to show a technician.
• If you cannot find the fault or lack the tools/experience, contact technical or specialist service. They can perform proper tests and repairs.
• Note: E56 on Electrolux dryers often has the same root causes (motor feedback, TRIAC/relay, motor components). The troubleshooting steps above apply to dryers as well.

Other error codes in Electrolux washing machine

For information on other error codes consult the appliance manual or the manufacturer’s error code list to locate and fix additional faults.