Asko Washer E5 Error: Motor speed fault
Asko washer E5 error is a common issue reported by Asko appliance owners. What Asko Error Code E5 Means Error code E5 on Asko washing machines indicates a motor or tachometer fault. The control board has detected an abnormal or absent speed signal from the drum motor, which causes the machine to shut down to […]
Sometimes
DIY Fixable
From $160
Typical Repair Cost
45-90 min
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
No. A motor fault prevents the drum from spinning, leaving clothes in soapy water and posing a risk of motor overheating. Do not run the machine until the fault is diagnosed and repaired.
Can I reset the code?
No. Resetting clears the code temporarily, but E5 will return on the next cycle if the underlying motor fault — worn brushes, failed tacho, or faulty inverter board — has not been fixed.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: A burning smell is present — disconnect power immediately to prevent fire risk., The drum is completely locked and cannot be turned by hand..
Symptoms You May Notice
Drum fails to rotate or rotates very slowly
After the cycle starts and water fills, the drum does not tumble at all, or moves only very slowly in short jerky movements before the machine stops and displays E5.
Burning or acrid smell from machine during spin
A smell of hot carbon or burnt insulation may be detectable near the machine shortly before or after the E5 code appears.
Cycle starts normally then aborts partway through
The machine fills with water and appears to begin the wash phase but halts within a few minutes before any meaningful drum rotation has occurred.
Loud intermittent buzzing from motor area
A buzzing or humming sound from beneath the drum — distinct from the quieter pump hum — indicates the motor is receiving power but cannot turn freely.
Possible Causes
Worn or broken motor carbon brushes
Asko washer motors use carbon brushes that wear over time. When worn down to the wear limit the brushes lose contact with the commutator ring, interrupting motor power and triggering a tacho fault.
DIY PossibleFaulty tachometer (motor speed sensor)
The tacho coil mounted on the motor generates a pulse signal for each rotation. If the coil winding fails or its wiring harness detaches, the control board sees zero RPM and faults to E5.
Requires ProfessionalFailed motor control module (inverter board)
On newer Asko W6000 series models with inverter-driven motors, a faulty inverter board will prevent the motor from running and register as an E5 fault.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Check for mechanical obstruction in the drum
Power off and unplug the machine. Open the door and attempt to rotate the drum by hand. It should turn freely with moderate resistance from the belt or bearings. If it feels locked or extremely stiff, a foreign object may be jammed between the drum and tub — do not force it.
Underwire from bras is a frequent cause of drum seizure and E5 faults on Asko models. Check the gap between the drum and door seal.
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2
Inspect motor carbon brushes (if comfortable doing so)
Access the motor from the rear of the machine (remove the back panel — typically 6 screws on Asko W-series). The carbon brushes are in spring-loaded holders on either side of the motor. Pull each holder out and inspect brush length. If shorter than 5 mm the brushes are worn and need replacement.
New brush sets for Asko motors cost approximately $15–$25 and are widely available. Replacement is a straightforward DIY task if you are comfortable with basic appliance disassembly.
Tools required -
3
Reset and test after brush replacement
After fitting new brushes, refit the back panel, plug in and power on. Run a short cotton cycle and listen for smooth, consistent motor acceleration through the wash and spin phases.
New brushes may produce a little carbon dust during the first few cycles — this is normal and will settle.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Carbon brushes are intact but the motor still does not run — tacho coil or inverter board testing required.
- Multimeter check shows no continuity in the tachometer coil winding.
- Inverter board replacement on Asko W6000 series typically starts from $220 including parts and labour.
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
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