Written by
Adrian Soto Appliance Repair Content SpecialistPublished September 5, 2026Updated October 20, 2026
Error code3C / 3E
ApplianceDishwasher
Quick answer
3C is a pump operation error. Turn off, restart the cycle, and request service if it persists.
Model compatibility: Samsung reuses codes across series and model years, so 3C / 3E may mean something different on another appliance or generation. Confirm this against your model’s documentation and record your full model number before acting.
Plain language
What this code means
3C is a pump failure; Samsung's Australian listing groups 3C and 3E as a pump operation check.
3C points to the pump. Samsung’s US guide calls it a pump operation error and says the pump has failed. Samsung’s Australian listing groups 3C and 3E together as a pump operation check, while the US guide lists 3E separately as a hot-water supply error.
What to do
Turn off the dishwasher and try to start the cycle again. If the error still occurs, request service. Samsung’s UAE listing adds that you can turn the dishwasher off, unplug it from its power source, restart it and see whether the issue resolves.
Related codes
See 3E for the US hot-water meaning, and 5C2 for a drain pump that fails to start or stalls.
Important safety warning. Do not attempt repairs involving electrical components, gas, water lines, refrigerant or sealed systems. Unplug the appliance if it is safe to reach the outlet, and leave internal diagnostics to a qualified technician.
Seeing this code on your Samsung appliance?
Book a specialist visit for a clear estimate and approval before any repair.
