Dexter Coin Laundry Washer Error Code F13: Comm Error 4

What does Dexter error code F13 mean?

A Dexter coin washer with a VFD has two electronic parts that must talk to each other all the time: the controller that reads coins and runs the cycle, and the drive that actually turns the motor. The controller sends speed and direction commands over a data cable and expects answers back. If the answers stop for two seconds, the controller decides it can no longer command the drum safely and stops the machine. The display then shows F13 (COMM ERROR 4). In a laundromat this usually lands on a customer in the middle of a paid cycle, which is why these washers draw complaints quickly. Dexter's troubleshooting document points to the data cable first: unplugged, pulled sideways, or damaged by tension. The code describes the link, not the drive itself, so a washer showing F13 may have a perfectly healthy motor and drive on the far side of a bad cable.

Affected models and control systems

Dexter C-Series and T-series coin washers with a VFD, from the T-300 up to the T-1450, such as the T-350 Express. Other Dexter controls that do not use a VFD data link do not use this message.

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

• The display shows F13 (COMM ERROR 4) and the drum stops
• A paid cycle ends early or never starts
• The washer works again after power is cycled, then repeats the code
• Nothing happens when a customer presses start

Possible causes

Listed in Dexter's documentation

• Data cable between the controller and the VFD unplugged
• Cable plug not fully seated
• Cable damaged by tension
• Failed communication port on the VFD or controller

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 that was tugged when the washer was pulled out for cleaning behind it
• A plug that works loose from the constant drum vibration of a heavy-use machine
• A cable that rubs on a sharp bracket and wears through its jacket over months

Safe checks before calling for service

How a technician diagnoses error code F13

1. Read the display to confirm F13 and ask staff how often it has appeared.
2. Verify incoming supply and that the VFD has power and shows no drive code of its own.
3. Inspect the data cable end to end for pinched jackets, bent pins and strain at both plugs.
4. Reseat or swap in a known-good cable and watch whether the link holds under vibration.
5. Test the communication ports on the controller and the drive only if the cable proves good.
6. Replace a part only after the test points to it, and quote the repair in writing first.

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.