Miele Washing Machine Error Codes (What They Mean + Fixes)

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Miele washing machines are reliable, but when an error code appears it usually points to a specific system (drain, inlet, door lock, heating, motor control). This guide covers common codes, what they mean, and safe troubleshooting steps.

Note: Miele codes vary by series (W1, older Novotronic, etc.). If you share the exact model (e.g., WWR860), I can align the code list to your unit.

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Fast Checks Before Anything Else

  1. Power cycle: Turn off at the wall for 2 minutes, then restart.
  2. Water taps: Confirm inlet taps are fully open.
  3. Drain path: Check the drain hose isn’t kinked and the sink trap isn’t blocked.
  4. Filter access: If your model has a drain pump filter flap, prepare towels and a shallow tray.

Common Miele Error Codes

F11 — Drain Fault (Not Draining / Slow Drain)

What it usually means

  • Water cannot drain properly (blocked filter, pump obstruction, hose restriction).

Try this

  1. Turn off power.
  2. Clean the drain pump filter (if your model has one).
  3. Check for debris in the pump impeller area (coins, pins, lint).
  4. Inspect drain hose for kinks and ensure the standpipe height is correct.

Call service if

  • The pump hums but won’t move water, or F11 returns immediately.

F10 / F20 (varies by series) — Water Inlet Fault (Not Filling)

What it usually means

  • Not enough water entering in time.

Try this

  1. Confirm water supply taps are open.
  2. Remove inlet hose(s) and clean the small filter screens.
  3. Check household pressure (other taps strong).
  4. If using hot+cold, confirm both supplies are available.

Call service if

  • Error repeats after screens are cleaned (inlet valve may be failing).

F34 / Door / “Door” message — Door Lock Issue

What it usually means

  • Door not closed/locked properly, or lock mechanism fault.

Try this

  1. Press door firmly until you feel/hear latch.
  2. Check for laundry trapped at the seal.
  3. Power cycle for 2 minutes.
  4. Try a different program (sometimes spin-only will reveal if lock engages).

Call service if

  • Door won’t lock at all or the code persists (lock assembly).

F53 / Motor (varies) — Motor / Speed Sensing Fault

What it usually means

  • Motor control not seeing expected speed feedback (load imbalance, drive control issue).

Try this

  1. Reduce load size and redistribute items.
  2. Run a rinse+spin on a small load.
  3. Check machine is level and stable.

Call service if

  • It happens on small loads too (motor control diagnostics required).

F138 (some models) — Drain/Waterproof System Triggered

What it usually means

  • Leak detection in base (Waterproof system) or overflow condition.

Try this

  1. Turn off power and water.
  2. Check for visible leaks around door seal and detergent drawer.
  3. Let the base dry (if accessible) and re-test once only.

Call service if

  • It triggers again (there’s likely an active leak).

How to Clear/Reset a Code

  1. Turn the machine off.
  2. Turn off at the wall for 2 minutes.
  3. Turn back on and run a quick rinse/spin.

If the code returns immediately, treat it as an active fault — repeated resets won’t fix the cause.

FAQ

Do Miele error codes differ between W1 and older models?

Yes. The same symptom (e.g., drain issue) can present as a different code depending on series.

Is F11 always a pump failure?

No — most commonly it’s a blocked filter or obstruction, especially after washing items with lint or small objects in pockets.

When should I stop DIY troubleshooting?

If there’s evidence of a leak, repeated breaker trips, burning smell, or persistent motor/heating errors.

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