Kenmore · Washing Machine
Kenmore Washing Machine F16 Error Code
Door lock cannot lock or unlock
What this error means
F16 means the door lock mechanism failed to complete a lock or unlock cycle. The CCU commanded the latch but did not receive the expected position feedback within the timeout window.
How F16 is detected
When F16 appears on a Kenmore washing machine, the control board has confirmed that water did not leave the machine within the programmed drain window. On Kenmore Elite 41382 31102, Kenmore Elite 41952 99111, and similar variants, the drain pump runs for a fixed interval—often three to seven minutes on washers and dishwashers—while a pressure switch or turbidity sensor verifies the tub or sump is empty. If water remains, the cycle stops to prevent spin with a full tub or overflow on the next fill.
Most F16 calls are resolved without parts: unplug and manually check that the door tab aligns with the latch receiver. Restricted drain paths mimic pump failure because the impeller spins against a blocked hose or filter. Document whether the pump hums audibly during the drain step; a humming pump with no water movement points to a clogged filter or kinked hose, while silence may indicate a failed pump motor or loose wiring at the harness.
After clearing blockages, run a short cycle and listen at the drain hose for steady water flow. If F16 returns on the next load with a clean filter and straight hose, measure resistance at the pump motor connector per the service manual for your model before ordering a replacement pump assembly.
Common causes
- Broken lock cam inside the door latch assembly
- Wax motor not advancing the latch hook
- Door boot interference preventing latch engagement
- Lock position switch failed inside the assembly
Step-by-step fixes
- 1Unplug and manually check that the door tab aligns with the latch receiver
- 2Open the lower access panel and listen for lock motor movement on power-up
- 3Inspect the lock wiring for broken conductors at the door hinge area
- 4Replace the complete door lock assembly if the motor runs without latching
When to call a technician
F16 with a new lock assembly and intact wiring may require CCU lock driver service.
Affected models
- Kenmore Elite 41382 31102
- Kenmore Elite 41952 99111
- Kenmore 22202 90002
Prevention & maintenance
- Clean drain filters and hose terminations monthly on high-use washing machines to prevent F16 from lint and food debris buildup.
- Record when F16 appears in the cycle and whether it clears after a 60-second power reset on your Kenmore washing machine—that detail speeds diagnosis if you call service.
- Keep the model and serial number from the rating plate when ordering parts for F16; Kenmore uses multiple revisions with different harness lengths and board firmware.
- Photograph wiring connector orientation before disconnecting any component while troubleshooting F16; reversed plugs on pumps and valves cause immediate repeat faults.