GE · Dishwasher
GE Dishwasher C3 Error Code
Dishwasher will not drain
What this error means
C3 means the dishwasher will not drain after reset sequence per GE support.
How C3 is detected
When C3 appears on a GE dishwasher, the control board has confirmed that water did not leave the machine within the programmed drain window. On GE GDT655SSJSS, GE GDF630PSMSS, and similar variants, the drain pump runs for a fixed interval—often three to seven minutes on washers and dishwashers—while a pressure switch or turbidity sensor verifies the tub or sump is empty. If water remains, the cycle stops to prevent spin with a full tub or overflow on the next fill.
Most C3 calls are resolved without parts: flip breaker 30 seconds. Restricted drain paths mimic pump failure because the impeller spins against a blocked hose or filter. Document whether the pump hums audibly during the drain step; a humming pump with no water movement points to a clogged filter or kinked hose, while silence may indicate a failed pump motor or loose wiring at the harness.
After clearing blockages, run a short cycle and listen at the drain hose for steady water flow. If C3 returns on the next load with a clean filter and straight hose, measure resistance at the pump motor connector per the service manual for your model before ordering a replacement pump assembly.
Common causes
- Pump motor failed
- Heavy debris in sump
- Control not sending voltage to pump
- Jammed impeller
Step-by-step fixes
- 1Flip breaker 30 seconds
- 2Remove standing water with cup
- 3Clean sump and spin impeller by hand
- 4Retry cancel-drain
When to call a technician
C3 with clear sump and silent pump needs drain pump WD26X10013 or equivalent.
Affected models
- GE GDT655SSJSS
- GE GDF630PSMSS
- GE GDT225SSLSS
Prevention & maintenance
- Clean drain filters and hose terminations monthly on high-use dishwashers to prevent C3 from lint and food debris buildup.
- Record when C3 appears in the cycle and whether it clears after a 60-second power reset on your GE dishwasher—that detail speeds diagnosis if you call service.
- Keep the model and serial number from the rating plate when ordering parts for C3; GE uses multiple revisions with different harness lengths and board firmware.
- Photograph wiring connector orientation before disconnecting any component while troubleshooting C3; reversed plugs on pumps and valves cause immediate repeat faults.