Error 5–1, also shown as F5E1, indicates the control didn’t see a “door closed” signal within about four seconds after you pressed Start/Resume, or it detected a faulty door-latch switch. The control blocks operation whenever it can’t confirm a solid, closed-door state, so cycles won’t begin or will stop shortly after they start.
How the issue shows up
You press Start/Resume, hear a brief pause, and the display or status LED signals the error. Sometimes the machine will start filling and then abort if vibration or a misaligned latch lets the switch flicker open. In other cases the door appears shut, but the control still “sees” it as open because the switch never changes state.
Why it happens
Most cases trace to simple closure timing (door not latched within the window), a misaligned strike on the tub frame, wear in the latch mechanism that prevents full travel, or electrical issues at the switch circuit—loose spade terminals, oxidized connectors, a broken conductor in the harness, or a failed microswitch. Less commonly, the latch actuator or handle cracks and no longer drives the switch, or the control input for the door circuit becomes unreliable.
Immediate actions (safe and simple)
Confirm the basics first. Start a cycle and close the door firmly and cleanly within four seconds—no leaning or slow push. Listen for the latch click and ensure nothing (overfilled racks, tall utensils, protruding pan handles) pushes back against the inner door and prevents full closure. If the code returns, cut power at the breaker or unplug the dishwasher before any inspection.
In-depth diagnosis without turning it into a teardown
Open the door and inspect the strike (the metal tang on the tub opening) for bend, looseness, or wear marks; if it sits even slightly high or low, the latch may never travel far enough to flip the switch. Check the door side for a cracked handle or loose latch screws. Restore power momentarily and watch door behavior: if a firm, square close clears the error only intermittently, alignment is suspect.
De-energize again and access the inner door panel to reach the latch and switch, then reseat the switch connector until its locking tab clicks. Look for heat discoloration, green/white oxidation on terminals, or a pin that has backed out of the housing; any of these will interrupt the “door closed” signal under vibration. Gently operate the latch by hand—travel should feel crisp, with a definite detent when the switch toggles. A mushy action or partial return suggests worn plastic cams or a fatigued spring. Follow the small harness from the switch toward the control and check for pinched insulation around the cable pass-through; repeated door movement can break a conductor internally and create an intermittent open.
Repair logic that saves time
Work from alignment to components. Realign or tighten the strike so the latch engages squarely; reseat and, if needed, clean the switch terminals; replace a damaged section of harness if you find a broken conductor or heat-stressed connector. If mechanical wear is obvious—or if the switch fails a simple continuity test when actuated—install a new door-latch assembly rather than piecemeal parts; the assembly includes the switch and restoring full, consistent travel cures most 5–1/F5E1 cases. Consider the control only after a known-good latch and verified wiring still fail to report a closed door.
After the repair — what to verify
Restore power and start a normal cycle. Close the door in one smooth motion and confirm the machine transitions from standby to fill without error. Lightly tug on the door during the first minute; the cycle should continue without interruption, indicating a solid, noise-free switch signal. Pause and resume mid-cycle to confirm the latch consistently re-reports “closed.” If your model shows stored faults, clear them per the tech sheet and repeat a short wash to ensure the code does not return.
Prevention and good habits
Load racks so handles and tall utensils don’t press against the inner door; keep the strike area free of detergent residue that can gum up latch travel; avoid slamming or leaning on the open door, which can tweak alignment over time. Periodically inspect the latch screws and the strike for looseness, and re-seat the switch connector if the machine has been moved. These small habits maintain a clean, unambiguous door-closed signal and prevent future 5–1/F5E1 interruptions.
Safety reminder
Always disconnect power before removing the inner door panel or touching wiring. If you notice heat damage at connectors, a cracked latch housing, or persistent errors after alignment and reseating, stop and arrange a professional evaluation to protect the control electronics and ensure a reliable fix.