Samsung Washer · Code 3C / 3E / 1 3C

Samsung Washer 3C code: Motor error

The control board is not seeing the drive motor turn the way it should, or is not getting a signal back from the motor's speed sensor. Samsung notes that on some models 3E can instead point to a voltage problem, so check your manual.

Most common causes

  1. Load too large or tangled, straining the motor
  2. Loose or damaged motor wiring connector
  3. Failed motor speed (hall) sensor
  4. Worn or failed drive motor (rotor or stator)
  5. Main control board fault

What you can safely check yourself

  1. Remove some laundry if the drum is packed and restart the cycle.
  2. Turn the washer off for 2 to 3 minutes, then back on and try again.
  3. Make sure the washer is plugged directly into a wall outlet, not an extension cord.

Unplug the appliance before moving or cleaning anything. Do not open panels, touch gas connections or bypass safety switches.

Checked against: assets.coastappliances.com · appliancepartspros.com · searspartsdirect.com. Meanings can vary by model; check your owner’s manual.

Quick answers

What does 3C mean on a Samsung Washer?

The control board is not seeing the drive motor turn the way it should, or is not getting a signal back from the motor's speed sensor. Samsung notes that on some models 3E can instead point to a voltage problem, so check your manual.

Can I clear the 3C code myself?

Try these first: Remove some laundry if the drum is packed and restart the cycle. Turn the washer off for 2 to 3 minutes, then back on and try again. Make sure the washer is plugged directly into a wall outlet, not an extension cord. Call a technician if the code returns after a reset with a normal load; motor, sensor and wiring checks require opening the cabinet.

How much does it cost to fix a 3C code?

It depends on the cause. At FixPro the diagnostic visit is $79.00 and is credited in full to the repair; you get a flat-rate quote before any work starts.

Other Samsung Washer codes

4C · Water supply error5C · Drain errordC · Door or lid lock errorLC · Water leak detectedOE · Overflow errorSUd · Too many sudsUE · Unbalanced load1C · Water level sensor error4C2 · Water too hot / hoses reversed9C1 · Voltage / power supply errorddC · Add Door not closedE2 · Stuck buttonHC · Heater error

Still showing the code?

A FixPro technician will find the cause and give you a flat price. $79.00 diagnostic, credited toward the repair.

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