FixByModel
E42

GE E42: Drive motor drawing too much current

The control detected the drive motor operating above its design limits, most often because the drum cannot turn freely. Overloading or a jammed basket is the usual trigger.

DIY fix

By the FixByModel editorial team · Verified 2026-09 · Researched against manufacturer support & repair references (below)

Most likely causes

  1. Washer overloaded or packed too tightly
  2. Wet, heavy load bunched to one side
  3. Garment or object trapped between drum and tub
  4. Basket not spinning freely due to an obstruction
  5. Failed drive motor or inverter/motor control board
Before you start — unplug the appliance and turn off the water supply. You'll be working near water and electrical parts, and drained water can be hot. If a step involves the pump, wiring, or opening the cabinet and you're unsure, stop and call a qualified technician.

Step-by-step fix

1Reduce the loadRemove some items so the drum is no more than about three-quarters full and can tumble freely.
2Redistribute laundryRearrange the remaining items evenly around the drum to avoid a heavy one-sided load.
3Check for obstructionsSpin the empty drum by hand and feel for binding; look for a sock or object caught between the drum and tub.
4Power resetUnplug the washer for a few minutes, then restore power to clear the fault.
5RetestRun a normal cycle with a smaller load; if E42 persists on light loads, the motor or control board likely needs a technician.

Still showing E42?

If you’ve worked through every step and E42 keeps returning, an internal part likely needs testing and replacement. That’s a job for a qualified appliance technician, who can measure the suspect part against the service-manual spec before replacing it.

Which models this applies to

GE washing machines. GE front-load washers that display E-series fault codes (E42/E45/E49 all indicate motor overcurrent).

FAQ

What does GE E42 mean?

Drive motor drawing too much current. The control detected the drive motor operating above its design limits, most often because the drum cannot turn freely. Overloading or a jammed basket is the usual trigger.

What causes GE E42?

The most likely cause is washer overloaded or packed too tightly. Other causes include Wet, heavy load bunched to one side; Garment or object trapped between drum and tub; Basket not spinning freely due to an obstruction; Failed drive motor or inverter/motor control board.

Can I fix GE E42 myself?

Usually yes. Start by working through the steps above, beginning with: remove some items so the drum is no more than about three-quarters full and can tumble freely.