Want a regional phone & address? Pick your area.
Hotpoint·Dishwashermedium severity
Hotpoint Dishwasher Error Code C3
Drain pump not clearing the tub
Common Causes
- 1Cup filter matted with soil
- 2Impeller fouled by a shard or label
- 3Drain motor burned out
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
- 1
Twist out the filter cup in the sump well and rinse the packed food film off its mesh
- 2
Probe the sump beneath for a glass sliver or a soaked-off can label snagging the vanes
- 3
Cue a drain and listen — a hum with no outflow is a jammed impeller, dead silence is a spent motor
- 4
On a disposer hookup, make sure the knockout slug was punched out or the pump has nowhere to send water
Pro Diagnostic Tip
Valley hard water crusts scale inside the pump volute over time and drags the impeller. Run a citric-acid descale cycle and re-test the drain before you commit to a new pump, since a scaled but sound pump often frees right up.
You Might Also Notice
- •Water left standing in the tub at the end
- •A gurgle from the drain as it tries to pump
- •Dishes rinsed dirty by the backed-up water
Parts, Cost & Difficulty
Repair Difficulty
Moderate — Some Experience NeededEstimated Repair Cost
$100–$225
Parts + labor. Free diagnosis with repair.
Parts That May Need Replacement
WD35X20878 drain pump assemblyWD12X24058 filter assembly
Do You Have the Right Tools?
Bearing puller set ($120), drum spider wrench ($85), multimeter ($85), and diagnostic software. Our technician arrives with $3,000+ in professional tools — your diagnostic is free.
Book a Free Diagnostic VisitOr call for a free consultation (415) 795-7300Available 24/7 — call or text
Licensed & Insured · 90-Day Warranty · Same-Day Service
What This Repair Involves
Here's what a professional technician does to resolve this issue:
Clean filter and check for blockage
This repair requires bearing pullers, drum spider wrenches, and diagnostic software for control board calibration. Most homeowners find it safer and more cost-effective to have a licensed technician handle it.
Safety First — Know the Risks
High-voltage components and pressurized water lines create flood and shock risk. A single loose fitting can cause thousands in water damage. Our techs are licensed and insured — let them handle the risk.
Let a Licensed Pro Handle ItOr call for a free consultation (415) 795-7300Available 24/7 — call or text
Licensed & Insured · 90-Day Warranty · Same-Day Service
Ready to Get This Fixed?
Don't let error code C3 disrupt your day. A professional diagnosis takes about 30 minutes — and it's free when you proceed with the repair.
Licensed & Insured · 90-Day Warranty · Same-Day Appointments Available
5.00 (36 verified reviews)
Same-Day Appliance Repair
Fixed or It's Free
Free Service Call & Diagnosis — no hidden fees, offer ends Sep 15
Book a Free Diagnostic VisitOr call (415) 795-7300Available 24/7 — call or text
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Hotpoint error code C3 mean?
Hotpoint error code C3 indicates: Drain pump not clearing the tub. This is a medium-severity issue affecting your dishwasher.
How do I fix Hotpoint error code C3?
Twist out the filter cup in the sump well and rinse the packed food film off its mesh Then, Probe the sump beneath for a glass sliver or a soaked-off can label snagging the vanes Then, Cue a drain and listen — a hum with no outflow is a jammed impeller, dead silence is a spent motor There are 1 more steps — see the full troubleshooting guide above. If these steps don't resolve the error, contact a professional.
How do I know if my dishwasher has error C3?
Besides the error code on the display, common signs include: Water left standing in the tub at the end; A gurgle from the drain as it tries to pump; Dishes rinsed dirty by the backed-up water. If you notice any of these symptoms, check your dishwasher's display panel for error code C3.
How much does it cost to fix Hotpoint C3?
Repair costs for Hotpoint C3 typically range from $100 to $225 depending on the specific cause and parts needed. EasyBear offers free diagnosis when you proceed with the repair. Call (415) 795-7300 for a same-day appointment.
Related Hotpoint Dishwasher Error Codes
Call NowAvailable 24/7 — call or textBook Online