Quick diagnosis
What this code is telling you
Most likely trigger
failed circulation or drain pump
Recommended replacement
Dishwasher Pump Assembly
Diagnostic path
3 ordered checks
Part fit
Exact model number required
Safety first
Before opening the appliance
Disconnect electrical power before removing panels or handling internal components. Do not bypass safety devices or perform live electrical testing unless you are qualified to do so.
Read the full safety disclaimerRoot cause
Why the control reported this error
The dishwasher reports 3C when the pump is not operating correctly because failed circulation or drain pump. pump wiring connection and control output to pump can produce the same code, so verify the fault before replacing components.
Possible causes
Check the most likely causes first
- 1
failed circulation or drain pump
Start here when it matches your symptoms.
- 2
pump wiring connection
- 3
control output to pump
Diagnostic sequence
Work through these checks in order
Stop when you find the fault. Do not perform a step that requires skills or live testing you are not qualified to do.
- 1
Check 1
Turn the dishwasher off.
- 2
Check 2
Restart a normal cycle once.
- 3
Check 3
If 3C returns, disconnect power and arrange service for the pump circuit.
Replacement part reference
Dishwasher Pump Assembly
Exact OEM part number
Model number required
Fitment note
The exact OEM part number varies by model and production revision. Verify the complete model number before ordering.
Verify the appliance model before ordering.
Manufacturers can use different parts under the same error code across model families and production revisions.
Where do I find my model number? →FixCodeDB may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through affiliate links.
Common questions
Quick answers for this fault
What should I check first for 3C?
Start with failed circulation or drain pump. If that checks out, continue through the diagnostic sequence above rather than replacing a part based on the code alone.
Does 3C always mean Dishwasher Pump Assembly is bad?
No. An error code identifies the condition the control detected, not a guaranteed failed part. Confirm the likely causes and wiring first. The exact OEM part number varies by model and production revision. Verify the complete model number before ordering.
When should I stop troubleshooting 3C myself?
Stop if the next step requires live electrical testing, sealed-system work, gas or combustion service, or any procedure outside your training. Disconnect electrical power before removing panels or handling internal components. Do not bypass safety devices or perform live electrical testing unless you are qualified to do so.
Manufacturer reference
Verify against the official support source
FixCodeDB summarizes the fault in plain language. For model-specific instructions, confirm the guidance with the manufacturer and your appliance manual.
Samsung Dishwasher Error Codes — Samsung Support →Was this useful?
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Keep diagnosing
Related Samsung guides
3E means the incoming water supply is too hot for the dishwasher.
The dishwasher is not receiving water at the pressure or temperature it expects.
The dishwasher cannot drain water normally.
The Waterwall reflector is not able to move correctly on compatible Samsung dishwashers.
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