Fisher & Paykel Fisher AquaSmart top-load washer Error Code 40, 56,: Meaning & How to Fix It

By the ErrorCodePro Editorial Team · Last reviewed October 20, 2026

Fisher & Paykel Fisher AquaSmart top-load washer error code 40, 56, means: Spin basket is not engaging or disengaging from the clutch. The spin basket must be able to rise and fall with the water level to engage and disengage from the clutch. [1] Keep using it? Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair. Start with the owner checks below, beginning with: write down the code and model number.

Source: Fisher Paykel AquaSmart top-load washer error-code chart, via Sears PartsDirect [1].

Quick facts

Code	40, 56,
Also shown as	160
Brand / appliance	Fisher & Paykel Fisher AquaSmart top-load washer
System	Motor / drive
Meaning (service chart)	Spin basket is not engaging or disengaging from the clutch. The spin basket must be able to rise and fall with the water level to engage and disengage from the clutch. [1]
Keep using it?	Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair
DIY-safe?	Owner checks only (listed below)
Support	Fisher & Paykel customer support (see your owner's manual)
Source document	Fisher Paykel AquaSmart top-load washer error-code chart (via Sears PartsDirect)

On this page: Meaning · Steps · Parts · When to call a technician · Related codes · FAQ

What error code 40, 56, means on a Fisher & Paykel Fisher AquaSmart top-load washer

Spin basket is not engaging or disengaging from the clutch. The spin basket must be able to rise and fall with the water level to engage and disengage from the clutch. [1]

This is a motor / drive code. Codes and wording can vary by model, so check your owner's manual for your model number.

How to fix Fisher & Paykel Fisher AquaSmart top-load washer error code 40, 56, (safe owner checks)

Safety first: disconnect power before you remove any panel or reach into the sump or drum. Do not touch wiring, the control board or the motor. If you see water near electrical parts, stop and call a technician. These steps are based on the Fisher Paykel AquaSmart top-load washer error-code chart (via Sears PartsDirect) [1], rewritten for clarity.

Write down the code and model number. Note exactly what the display shows (40, 56,) and copy the full model number from the rating label, so you can confirm this chart applies to your fisher AquaSmart top-load washer and order the right parts.
Do a power reset. Unplug the washer and pull out the spin basket.
Remove any foreign objects between. Remove any foreign objects between the spin basket and the tub that could be interfering with spin basket clutch engagement.
Test and decide. Run a short cycle or restart and watch the display. If 40, 56, comes back after these checks, stop using the washer for this function and call a technician, because the remaining causes need meters or part replacement.

The first and last steps (and the power reset) are general owner checks added by ErrorCodePro; the rest follow the Fisher Paykel AquaSmart top-load washer error-code chart published by Sears PartsDirect, rewritten for safe owner use.

Parts that may be involved

Exact parts depend on your model number. This page lists part types only, never part numbers.

Drive components

When to call a technician

Technician: replace any damaged drive components.
Anything involving wiring, the control board, the motor or the water valve electrics
The appliance is under warranty: contact Fisher & Paykel customer support (see your owner's manual) first

Frequently asked questions

What does error code 40, 56, mean on a Fisher & Paykel Fisher AquaSmart top-load washer?

The Fisher Paykel AquaSmart top-load washer error-code chart lists 40, 56, as follows: Spin basket is not engaging or disengaging from the clutch. The spin basket must be able to rise and fall with the water level to engage and disengage from the clutch.

Is it safe to keep using the Fisher AquaSmart top-load washer with 40, 56,?

Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair.

Can I fix Fisher & Paykel Fisher AquaSmart top-load washer error 40, 56, myself?

Only with the owner checks on this page, starting with: write down the code and model number. If it persists, call a technician or Fisher & Paykel customer support (see your owner's manual).

Is 160 the same as 40, 56,?

Yes. The source chart lists 160 with the same meaning as 40, 56,; the display format depends on the model.

Sources

Sears PartsDirect: Fisher Paykel AquaSmart top-load washer error-code chart (third-party copy of manufacturer service data)

Last reviewed: October 20, 2026. ErrorCodePro is not affiliated with Fisher & Paykel.