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Error Code

Fisher & Paykel Washer 51

Homeowners usually land here after 51 interrupts a Fisher & Paykel Washer cycle. Below: cautious symptoms, safe checks, and how SmartDrive top-load washer — legacy fault codes fits the picture — without unsafe DIY.

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Reviewed by Ethan Cole · Last reviewed August 10, 2026

Ethan Cole Written by Ethan Cole Appliance Repair Content Specialist Published August 10, 2026 Updated August 11, 2026 Technically reviewed August 10, 2026

Content status: Verified

Error code 51
Appliance Washer
Affected model series SmartDrive top-load washer · match your exact model docs
Quick answer

What 51 often looks like on Fisher & Paykel Washer appliances, plus safe next steps.

Model compatibility: Fisher & Paykel reuses codes across series and model years, so 51 may mean something different on another appliance or generation. Confirm this against your model’s documentation and record your full model number before acting.

Plain language

What this code means

This page provides general guidance while 51 is matched to Fisher & Paykel docs for the SmartDrive top-load washer — legacy fault codes platform. Confirm the label on your rating plate before relying on any interpretation.

Signs

Symptoms you may notice

  • The washer display shows 51 during or after a wash cycle.
  • The cycle may pause, stop early, or fail to start while 51 is shown.
  • The machine may not fill, agitate, spin, or drain normally while the fault is active.
Before you call

Safe checks you can make

These are simple, non-hazardous checks only. If anything is unclear, stop and contact a technician.

  • Check that the lid or door is fully closed (and locked, on models with a lid/door lock).
  • Confirm the water supply taps are fully open and hoses are not kinked or restricted.
  • Check that the drain hose is not kinked and the drain/standpipe is clear.
  • Confirm the load is not overloaded or unbalanced.
  • Switch the washer off at the wall, wait about 60 seconds, then switch back on and retry once.
  • Record the full model and serial number from the rating plate.

Important safety warning. Do not open internal panels, remove covers, or access wiring, the motor, or the control board. Do not bypass the lid/door safety switch. If you notice water pooling near electrical parts, a burning smell, or sparks, switch off power at the wall and call a professional immediately.

Get help

When to call a technician

If you are unsure about 51 at any point, step away from internal panels and schedule Fisher & Paykel Appliance Repair. Sealed, gas, and high-voltage work stays with qualified technicians.

Code still active?

Have this Fisher & Paykel alert verified on site

Repeating fault codes usually need platform-specific testing. We confirm the cause and price the fix before work begins.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

References

Sources & references

Code still active?

Have this Fisher & Paykel alert verified on site

Repeating fault codes usually need platform-specific testing. We confirm the cause and price the fix before work begins.

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Address 1200 Brickell Ave, Suite 400, Miami, FL 33131
Phone (844) 659-2290
Email service@example.com
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