Quick diagnosis
What this code is telling you
Most likely trigger
Clogged debris filter on drain pump
Recommended replacement
Drain Pump Motor Assembly
Diagnostic path
4 ordered checks
Part fit
Exact model number required
Safety first
Before opening the appliance
Unplug the appliance before removing panels or testing internal components. Do not bypass safety switches or live-test high-voltage, gas, refrigerant, or combustion components unless you are qualified to do so.
Read the full safety disclaimerRoot cause
Why the control reported this error
The washer sets this code when its control cannot confirm the expected wash-cycle condition. Start by ruling out clogged debris filter on drain pump. kinked or clogged external drain hose and objects trapped in drain impeller (coins, socks) can create the same feedback, so confirm the failure before replacing drain Pump Motor Assembly.
Symptoms
What you may notice
- ✓Tub remains filled with soapy water
- ✓Spin cycle will not activate
- ✓Humming sound from lower drain filter
Possible causes
Check the most likely causes first
- 1
Clogged debris filter on drain pump
Start here when it matches your symptoms.
- 2
Kinked or clogged external drain hose
- 3
Objects trapped in drain impeller (coins, socks)
- 4
Defective drain pump motor
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
Open access door at bottom front, drain standing water manually, and clean debris filter tube.
- 2
Check 2
Verify standpipe drain hose is positioned properly without kinks or tight bends.
- 3
Check 3
Inspect drain pump impeller blades for trapped debris or coins.
- 4
Check 4
Test drain pump motor for power and replace pump if motor hums without turning.
Replacement part reference
Drain Pump Motor 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 5C?
Start with clogged debris filter on drain pump. If that checks out, continue through the diagnostic sequence above rather than replacing a part based on the code alone.
Does 5C always mean Drain Pump Motor 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 5C myself?
Stop if the next step requires live electrical testing, sealed-system work, gas or combustion service, or any procedure outside your training. Unplug the appliance before removing panels or testing internal components. Do not bypass safety switches or live-test high-voltage, gas, refrigerant, or combustion components 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 Washer Error Codes — Samsung Support →Was this useful?
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Related Samsung guides
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UB (Unbalanced) or UE code triggers when load distribution prevents safe high-speed spin.
The dishwasher reports 3C when the pump is not operating correctly.
3E means the incoming water supply is too hot for the dishwasher.
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