Hotpoint Washing Machine F02 Error: Meaning, Causes & Safe Checks
Quick answer
Hotpoint F02 is a motor circuit fault: the drum turns only now and then, or not at all, during the wash. There are no safe home checks for it, and Hotpoint’s advice is to call an engineer. Switch the machine off and don’t keep restarting it.
What F02 means on a Hotpoint washing machine
Hotpoint’s UK service page describes F02 as a motor circuit fault.
Applies to: Hotpoint washing machines.
What you might notice
- The drum turns intermittently or not at all during the wash
Likely causes
- A fault in the motor or motor circuit
Why this isn’t a DIY job
The motor and its circuit are behind the panels and run on mains power. Hotpoint’s UK service page lists no home checks for F02. Turning the drum by hand or forcing it won’t tell you anything useful and can cause damage.
What to do now
- The drum doesn’t turn at all, or a dryer drum spins very freely by hand. That usually points to a motor or belt fault for an engineer.
- You smell burning, see smoke or scorch marks, or the appliance trips your electrics. Stop using it, and switch it off at the wall only if it is safe to reach. Otherwise switch off at the consumer unit.
- The next step would mean removing a cover or panel, or working on the pump, valves, heater, motor, door lock or wiring. That is a job for a qualified engineer.
- The appliance is still under warranty. Contact the manufacturer first, because DIY work can affect your cover.
There are no safe repair checks for F02. Make the washing machine safe as below, don’t keep restarting it, and book an engineer.
Switch the appliance off safely and don’t use it
- If it is safe to reach and the plug and socket look and feel normal, switch off at the wall and unplug.
- If the plug or socket is hot, scorched or crackling, or there is water around it, don’t touch it. Switch off at the consumer unit instead.
- Don’t use the appliance again until it has been checked by the manufacturer or a qualified engineer.
Don’t: Don’t keep resetting a consumer unit switch that trips again.
When to call an engineer
F02 needs an engineer. Once the washing machine is safe, contact Hotpoint or a qualified appliance engineer. Have the model and serial number from the rating label ready, and start with Hotpoint UK support.
Repair or replace?
F02 needs an engineer. Before you book, find the model number and purchase date. If it’s under warranty or an extended plan, contact Hotpoint first. Out of warranty, ask for a quote and weigh it against the age of the washing machine. We don’t publish repair prices because they vary by area, part and model.
Related problems
- Washing machine not spinningIf your washing machine won’t spin, the load is often unbalanced or too big, or the…
- Washing machine making a noiseLoud banging, knocking or rattling is usually caused by a machine that isn’t level…
Related codes
- 3CSamsung The machine has detected a problem with its motor.
- LELG The motor can’t turn the drum normally (LG calls it a motor locked error).
- E50AEG The machine has detected a fault in the motor or the motor control system.
Different code or symptom? Use the fault finder, see all Hotpoint washing machine codes, or read how Hotpoint codes work. Not sure it’s safe? Read our safety information.
Sources
- Hotpoint UK: Washing machine error codes troubleshooting guide Manufacturer UK · checked 11 October 2026
- AEG UK: Washing machine emits a burning smell Manufacturer UK · checked 11 October 2026
- Electrical Safety First: Washing machines usage and safety Safety charity · checked 11 October 2026
- Electrical Safety First: Fire prevention tips Safety charity · checked 11 October 2026
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We write every page in our own words from manufacturer guidance and check it against the sources above. If your manual says something different, follow your manual. How we check.