Dexter Commercial Washer Error Code F13: Communication Error

What does Dexter error code F13 mean?

The drive that spins the drum on a Dexter VFD washer takes its orders from the controller through a data cable. Without that link the controller cannot command speed, direction or stop. The controller listens for the drive's reply continuously, and if two seconds pass without one, it ends the cycle and shows F13 (COMM ERROR 4). Two seconds is a short window, so the cause is usually a hard break in the link rather than noise: a plug that has come out, a cable pulled sideways, or damage along its length. Dexter's troubleshooting document names exactly these, along with the cable ports on the VFD and the controller. At a hotel or apartment laundry room the washer may stop with a full load inside, so a quick restart and a look at the cable from outside are the sensible first moves. The code speaks about the communication, so the drive and controller can be healthy and the washer still dead. Testing the cable first is quick, and it avoids replacing an expensive drive that was never the problem.

Affected models and control systems

Dexter C-Series and T-series washers with a VFD, T-300 to T-1450, such as the T-350 Express. Other controller generations number their messages differently.

Code numbers and their meaning can change between control generations. We match the full model and control before acting on a code.

What you may notice

• F13 (COMM ERROR 4) is on the display
• The drum stops mid-cycle with water or a load still inside
• The washer will not start a new cycle
• The message follows the washer being moved or cleaned behind

Possible causes

Listed in Dexter's documentation

• Data cable between controller and VFD pulled out of its plug
• Plug sitting loose in its socket
• Cable damaged by sideways tension
• Failed VFD or controller port

Other likely causes — what usually sits behind error code F13 on this control. A technician confirms which one it is before any part is replaced.

• A cable clamp that was left loose after service, letting the cable sag against a moving part
• Corroded pins at a plug in a laundry room with steam and detergent vapor

Safe checks before calling for service

How a technician diagnoses error code F13

1. Confirm F13 and ask staff how often it has appeared.
2. Verify supply to the controller and the VFD, and check that the VFD shows no code of its own.
3. Inspect the data cable and both plugs for strain, bent pins and corrosion.
4. Test with a known-good cable to see if the link holds under load.
5. Check the ports on the controller and the drive only if the cable is clear.
6. Replace a part after the test points to it and quote the work in writing.

How error code F13 differs from similar codes

COMM ERROR 5 on the same washers is a data error after twelve seconds, usually noise; F13 follows a two second break.

Technical reference

Document

Dexter Common Washer Troubleshooting and Error Codes (Washer Fault Errors, pp. 4-10)

Maker documentation

Dexter owner support

Edition

Part # 8533-***-*** 9/19

Models / control

Dexter C-Series and T-series coin washers with VFD (T-300 to T-1450)

Section

Washer Fault Errors & Codes, printed pp. 4-10 (PDF pp. 5-11); contents on p. 1

Checked

October 2026

We use the maker's document to read the code and do not reproduce it. Always confirm the complete model and control before applying these steps.