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Appliance Fix Guide

Samsung Dishwasher error code

Samsung Dishwasher Error E3

Unplug dishwasher and allow 20 minutes for components to cool.

Unplug dishwasher and allow 20 minutes for components to cool.

UnknownStart with 5-15 minutes of safe checks
✅ WORTH FIXINGParts under $100
Samsung dishwasher repair guide for error E3
Error codeE3Dishwasher

Try these first

Start here before buying a part or taking the appliance apart.

  1. 1
    Unplug dishwasher and allow 20 minutes for components

    Unplug dishwasher and allow 20 minutes for components to cool.

  2. 2
    Remove lower access panel to access heater assembly

    Remove lower access panel to access heater assembly and thermistor.

  3. 3
    Locate thermistor mounted on heater housing or tub

    Locate thermistor mounted on heater housing or tub wall near heating element. Disconnect wiring harness.

A quick explanation

What does E3 mean?

Unplug dishwasher and allow 20 minutes for components to cool.

The answer you came for

How to fix Samsung dishwasher error E3

Start with the safest checks and work from simple to technical.

  1. 1

    Unplug dishwasher and allow 20 minutes for components

    Unplug dishwasher and allow 20 minutes for components to cool.

  2. 2

    Remove lower access panel to access heater assembly

    Remove lower access panel to access heater assembly and thermistor.

  3. 3

    Locate thermistor mounted on heater housing or tub

    Locate thermistor mounted on heater housing or tub wall near heating element. Disconnect wiring harness.

  4. 4

    Measure resistance across thermistor terminals with multimeter at

    Measure resistance across thermistor terminals with multimeter at room temperature. Expected: ~10kΩ at 77°F.

  5. 5

    If reading is infinite (open), near zero (shorted),

    If reading is infinite (open), near zero (shorted), or deviates >15% from specification: remove mounting screw.

  6. 6

    Gently extract thermistor from mounting well

    Gently extract thermistor from mounting well. Clean well with isopropyl alcohol.

  7. 7

    Apply thermal conductive paste to tip of new

    Apply thermal conductive paste to tip of new sensor.

  8. 8

    Install replacement thermistor using OEM part DD31-00003A

    Install replacement thermistor using OEM part DD31-00003A. Secure mounting screw to 4 in-lbs torque.

  9. 9

    Reconnect wiring harness firmly

    Reconnect wiring harness firmly. Reinstall access panel.

  10. 10

    Restore power

    Restore power. Run Sanitize cycle while monitoring temperature display for smooth, accurate readings.

Read the additional checks from the current guide

How to Fix Dishwasher Error Unplug dishwasher and allow 20 minutes for components to cool.Remove lower access panel to access heater assembly and thermistor.Locate thermistor mounted on heater housing or tub wall near heating element. Disconnect wiring harness.Measure resistance across thermistor terminals with multimeter at room temperature. Expected: ~10kΩ at 77°F.If reading is infinite (open), near zero (shorted), or deviates >15% from specification: remove mounting screw.Gently extract thermistor from mounting well. Clean well with isopropyl alcohol.Apply thermal conductive paste to tip of new sensor.Install replacement thermistor using OEM part DD31-00003A. Secure mounting screw to 4 in-lbs torque.Reconnect wiring harness firmly. Reinstall access panel.Restore power. Run Sanitize cycle while monitoring temperature display for smooth, accurate readings.

If the code comes back

Do not keep replacing parts based only on the code. Repeat the safe checks above. If the fault remains, stop and arrange qualified service rather than ordering from the code alone.

Recommended part

Recommended part for this error code

Part listed in the current guide

OEM candidate: DD31-00003A

Price noted in the current guide: $28

Why this part is shown: It is associated with Samsung Dishwasher error E3 in the current guide. The error code alone does not prove this part has failed.

Compatibility varies by model. Confirm that the Amazon listing includes your complete dishwasher model number before ordering.

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Replacement options

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If repairing this dishwasher no longer feels worthwhile, compare three replacement paths below.

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  • Installation help

    Installation or assembly may be available on select items.

Delivery and service options, fees, and availability vary by item, seller, and delivery ZIP code. Confirm available services at Amazon checkout.

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Make the money decision

Repair or replace calculator

Use the age and total repair estimate to get a simple comparison. This is guidance, not a guarantee.

Safety first

Disconnect power before opening panels or touching internal parts.

When to stop
  • Stop if you see burned wiring, melted connectors, water near electrical parts, or a gas smell.
  • Do not perform live-voltage testing unless you are trained and equipped for it.
  • Use the exact model manual or service information before replacing electronic controls.

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