What this error means
Motor fault — the drum motor is not running or has stopped unexpectedly
The F02 error means the drum motor has failed to start, has stalled during a cycle, or the motor control system has detected an abnormal motor current. This is most commonly caused by worn carbon brushes, a broken or slipped drive belt, a foreign object jamming the drum, or a failed motor winding. An overloaded drum or a motor that has tripped its thermal protection cutout after overheating will also produce this fault.
What you'll need first
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Step-by-step
Symptoms to look for
- Drum not spinning or tumbling at any stage of the programme
- Drum rotates in short stuttering movements rather than smoothly
- Loud humming from the motor area with no drum movement
- Burning smell from the rear of the machine during or after a cycle attempt
- Machine fills and heats correctly but the drum remains completely stationary
Diagnostic steps
With the machine unplugged, open the door and place your hand flat inside the drum. Rotate the drum slowly clockwise for one full turn, then anti-clockwise. You should feel smooth, even resistance throughout — similar to turning against a light spring. Any grinding, sharp catching, clicking, or complete seizure indicates a physical obstruction or a mechanical fault.
Leave the machine completely unplugged with the door open for at least 15 minutes to allow full cooling. Plug back in and retry with a small load.
With the machine unplugged, remove the rear panel by undoing the screws around its edge. The drive belt loops around the large drum pulley at the top and the small motor pulley at the bottom. Check whether the belt is present on both pulleys, correctly seated in the grooves, and under tension. A snapped or derailed belt means the motor runs but the drum does not move at all.
The motor has two brush holders — one on each side of the motor body. Each is a spring-loaded carbon rod. Press the tab on each holder and slide it out. The carbon rod should be at least 5 to 7 mm long. Rods shorter than this have worn down and must be replaced.
Inspect the wiring loom connecting the motor to the motor control board. Check that the multi-pin connector is firmly seated. Look for burnt insulation, chafed wires where the loom runs near moving parts, or loose spade terminals on the motor body. Disconnect and firmly reconnect the main motor connector.
With the motor wiring disconnected, set a multimeter to resistance. Test between the main winding terminals on the motor. Consult the service documentation for your specific Hotpoint model for expected values — typically in the range of 2 to 15 ohms depending on the motor type. An open circuit (OL) reading or a reading significantly outside the expected range indicates a failed motor winding.
When to call an engineer
- Carbon brushes worn below 5 mm — both must be replaced immediately
- Drive belt is snapped, cracked, or has derailed from one or both pulleys
- Motor winding reads open circuit on a multimeter — motor needs replacing
- Foreign object jammed between drum and outer tub that cannot be retrieved safely
Frequently asked questions
Can worn carbon brushes be replaced at home?
How do I know if it is the belt or the motor?
Why does F02 only appear after a long programme?
Is it dangerous to work near the motor?
🎯 What is likely causing this fault?
⚠️ Estimates based on common faults — not a guaranteed diagnosis. Always verify before ordering parts.
Parts you may need
Enter your model number to filter results to your exact machine
Usually found on a label inside the door frame or on the back panel of the machine.
| Part | Approx. UK Cost | Find it |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Carbon Brushes | £10 - £20 | 🛒 Amazon UK → |
| Hotpoint Motor | £80 - £100 | 🛒 Amazon UK → |
| Hotpoint Motor | £20 - £40 | 🏷️ eBay UK → |
ℹ️ Prices are approximate. Always check the part number matches your model before ordering. Not sure of your model number? Find out how to locate it here.