how can i fix my zanussi aquacycle 1400 washing machine?

Following up the door lock idea mentioned above, I've just "fixed" mine:

I took the top off (two screws at the back). MAKE SURE IT'S UNPLUGGED. I then inspected the door lock mechanism. It's a devil to get at!. Undo the two screws either side of the door latch at front of the machine, on the crescent shaped plastic thing. Carefully twist and pull up the locking mechanism which is a plastic thing with wires coming out the back of it. Make sure the mechanical bit runs freely and that the wires are in good shape.

Now carefully put it back down. Note that the light on the mechanism needs to match up with the hole above the two screw holes. You may need to temporarily undo the catch at the top of it to free the wires to allow you to get it into position and this catch is not very robust so be carefull.

Put the screws back in (this is not easy and an extra pair of hands would be usefull but I managed it OK after a bit of swearing). I was able to hold the mechanism with my right hand an then carefully insert the top screw in with my left until I could get a screw driver at it. Be carefull not to overdo screwing it up, it is only plastic.

This semed to do the trick for me, not too sure why really but it probably means that it's not the best built device ...

Jon Gerdes
May 2006

Hi Chris,

I have exactly the same problem with mine. I had an engineer out to look at it yesterday, and apparently the module, with all the programming, has gone. What that means to me is £130 for the part + labour + VAT :(

I'm told it's a common problem with this model. Unfortunately the module can't be re-conditioned, so you have to buy new.

I was actually advised to get a reconditioned washing machine, rather then fix this one, as they are so unreliable.

There is one other potential thing that can cause the same problem - something to do with the door lock. But, I don't really have details.

Nina
June 2005