Samsung Washer Error Code 3C: How to Fix It

Medium 45-90 minutes High Severity Verified June 2026
Error Code
3C
Brand
Samsung
Product Type
washer
Severity
High
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
45-90 minutes
Samsung washer error code 3C indicates that the drive motor tachometer signal has been lost, meaning the control board can't detect the motor's rotation speed. This typically occurs due to faulty motor wiring, a damaged tachometer sensor, or issues with the drive motor itself.
Ad

Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 3C

  1. Safety First - Disconnect Power

    Always disconnect power before working on electrical appliances to prevent electrocution
  2. Access the Drive Motor

    Support the washer properly when removing panels to prevent tipping
  3. Inspect Motor Wiring Connections

  4. Check Tachometer Sensor Wiring

  5. Test Motor Resistance

    Ensure multimeter probes make good contact and motor is completely disconnected
  6. Clean and Secure All Connections

  7. Test the Repair

Parts You May Need

Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Wire harness connector
Check Price on Amazon
Main control board
Check Price on Amazon
Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Wire harness connector
Check Price on Amazon
Main control board
Check Price on Amazon
Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Wire harness connector
Check Price on Amazon
Main control board
Check Price on Amazon
Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Wire harness connector
Check Price on Amazon
Main control board
Check Price on Amazon
Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Wire harness connector
Check Price on Amazon
Main control board
Check Price on Amazon
Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Wire harness connector
Check Price on Amazon
Main control board
Check Price on Amazon
Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Wire harness connector
Check Price on Amazon
Main control board
Check Price on Amazon
Drive motor assembly
Check Price on Amazon
Wire harness connector
Check Price on Amazon
Main control board
Check Price on Amazon
Ad

When to Call a Professional

Call a professional technician if the multimeter readings are outside normal range, if you're uncomfortable working with electrical components, or if the error persists after checking all connections. Motor replacement requires specialized knowledge and may be covered under warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes Samsung washer error code 3C?
Error code 3C is caused by a lost tachometer signal from the drive motor. Common causes include loose or damaged wiring connections, a faulty tachometer sensor, corrosion on electrical connections, or a failing drive motor.
Can I still use my Samsung washer with error code 3C?
No, you should not use the washer when error code 3C appears. The control board cannot properly regulate motor speed without the tachometer signal, which could damage the motor or create unsafe operating conditions.
How much does it cost to fix Samsung washer error 3C?
If it's a simple wiring issue, the repair might cost $100-200 for a service call. If the drive motor needs replacement, expect $300-500 including parts and labor. DIY repairs cost significantly less if you can identify and fix loose connections yourself.
Is Samsung washer error code 3C covered under warranty?
Yes, if your Samsung washer is still under warranty (typically 1-3 years depending on the model), error code 3C should be covered as it indicates a motor or electrical system failure, which are major components covered by warranty.