Dryer High Severity
F10 Miele Error Code

Motor Fault

The F10 error code means the drum motor in your Miele dryer is not operating correctly. The control board has detected that the motor is not starting, not reaching speed, or drawing abnormal current.

~15%

DIY Fixable

$250-500

Typical Repair Cost

1-3 hrs

Pro Repair Time

Quick Assessment

Answer to continue safely

Is it safe to keep using?

No. A motor fault prevents drying and can pose a fire risk if the motor is overheating. Resolve F10 before use.

Can I reset the code?

Yes. Yes, but only effective if the cause was a temporary overload.

When to stop immediately?

Stop if you notice: Motor makes no sound, Burning smell.

Symptoms You May Notice

Drum does not turn

The machine powers on but the drum remains stationary

Motor hums but no rotation

You hear the motor straining without spinning the drum

F10 at cycle start

Appears when the motor should begin turning

Burning smell

An overloaded motor generates excess heat

Possible Causes

1

Seized Motor Bearings

Lint accumulation in the motor area or worn bearings prevent rotation.

Requires Professional
2

Broken Drive Belt

The belt connecting the motor to the drum has snapped.

Requires Professional
3

Motor Overload

Excessive load or a jammed drum prevents the motor from turning.

DIY Possible
4

Failed Motor Windings

The motor coils have burned out.

Requires Professional
5

Motor Capacitor Failure

The start capacitor has failed (on applicable models).

Requires Professional

Safe Checks You Can Do

These checks are safe for homeowners. No disassembly required. Do not remove panels or access internal components.
  1. 1

    Reduce the Load

    Remove some items — an overloaded drum can prevent the motor from starting.

    Do not overfill the dryer.

  2. 2

    Turn Drum by Hand

    With the machine off, reach in and try to rotate the drum. It should turn with moderate resistance.

    If it does not turn at all, the belt may be caught or the drum is jammed.

  3. 3

    Power Reset

    Turn off at mains for 10 minutes.

    The motor controller may need to reset.

  4. 4

    Listen to Motor

    Start a cycle empty. Listen: smooth ramp-up = motor OK. Hum without rotation = jammed. Silence = no power to motor.

    Compare with normal operation sounds.

  5. 5

    Check Breaker

    A motor short can trip the household breaker.

    Do not repeatedly reset a tripping breaker.

When to Call a Professional

Contact a qualified Miele technician if:

  • Motor does not run even empty
  • Belt broken
  • Motor bearings seized
  • Motor windings failed
  • Under warranty

Need Professional Help?

Find qualified Miele technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.

Schedule Appointment

More Dryer Error Codes

View all codes →
F78 F72 F69 F66 F40 F46 F36 F34 F16 F15 F14 F11