Samsung Dishwasher 3C Error: Pump Operation Meaning

Samsung identifies 3C as a pump operation error. One restart is reasonable; a returning code needs service.

Reviewed August 16, 2026·Official source linked below
Short answer

Samsung's dishwasher guidance states that 3C means the pump has failed.

01

What 3C means

Samsung's dishwasher guidance states that 3C means the pump has failed.

Confirm the model.Error codes can be reused across product families. These steps apply to the Samsung dishwasher context described by the cited source.
02

What you may notice

  • The cycle stops or will not start
  • The display shows 3C
  • The dishwasher may beep
  • The code returns after Cancel
03

Most likely causes

  1. 01The pump is jammed
  2. 02The pump motor has failed
  3. 03A connector or harness is damaged
  4. 04The control cannot operate the pump
04

Safe checks, in order

Start with the simplest non-invasive check. Stop as soon as the error clears; repeated resets can hide a condition without correcting it.

1

Cancel the cycle

Allow all sound and movement to stop.

2

Check the filter

Remove only debris accessible through the normal filter-cleaning procedure.

3

Cycle power once

Turn the dishwasher off at its circuit for 30 seconds, then retry.

!
Safety note

Know where to stop

Do not access the pump, wiring, or underside unless trained and power is positively disconnected.

05

When to call a technician or support

Request Samsung service if the code returns after the safe checks above or if leaking, overheating, electrical odor, or abnormal mechanical noise is present.

When you call, have the exact product or vehicle model, model year where relevant, the complete code or symbol, and when it appeared.

Primary reference

Where this information came from

We use the manufacturer's current published guidance as the starting point, then organize it into a safer, beginner-friendly sequence.

Samsung Support — dishwasher error codes Source last checked August 16, 2026. Manufacturer instructions and model manuals take priority over this independent summary.