Samsung dishwasher 3C code: wash pump error
- Urgency
- High
- Who can fix it
- Technician job
- Time
- About 15 min
- Repair cost
- $200–$450
The wash pump is not working properly. Restart the cycle first. If 3C keeps coming back, the pump or its wiring needs service.
Likely causes
Listed from most to least common.
- Temporary control glitch
- Wash pump jammed by debris
- Failed wash pump motor
- Loose pump wiring
- Control board fault
How to fix the 3C code
Unplug the dishwasher or switch it off at the breaker before removing any panel or filter.
Step 1: Restart the cycle
Turn the dishwasher off, wait a minute, turn it back on and start the cycle again.
Step 2: Reset the power
If the code returns, turn the dishwasher off at the breaker for a minute, then try again.
Step 3: Clean the filter
With the power off, remove the bottom rack, twist the filter out and rinse it. Check the sump for glass or bones.
You'll need: Flashlight.
Parts that may need replacing
Check your model number on the label inside the door or on the back before ordering.
- Samsung dishwasher circulation pumpCheck prices
When to call a technician
If 3C stays after a restart and power reset, have a technician test the wash pump. Replacing it means taking the dishwasher out.
A typical repair for this code costs $200–$450 in the US, including parts and labor. Prices vary by area and model.
Models this applies to
- DW80 series dishwashers
- Bespoke and StormWash models
Codes can differ slightly between models. Your owner's manual is the final word and is available from Samsung support.
Common questions
›Is 3C the same as 3E on a Samsung dishwasher?
No. Samsung lists 3C as a pump error and 3E as hot water supply that is too hot, above 176°F.
›Is a 3C code worth fixing?
Often, yes. A pump replacement costs far less than a new dishwasher on a newer model. Get a quote first on an older unit.