Motor Error

What it means

This code appears on Samsung front-load and top-load washing machines when the motor does not turn as the main board commands, or when no valid speed signal comes back from it; older models show the same fault as 3E. The washer stops and the drum does not turn, or turns only in jerks. The same code can mean something else on other brands.

Models covered: Samsung front-load and top-load washing machines; newer models show codes ending in C (e.g. 4C), older ones end in E (e.g. 4E) with the same meaning.

Related codes: UB8CAC9C1

Symptoms4

• The drum does not turn and 3C appears after the cycle starts.
• The drum turns slowly or stops suddenly during spin.
• A hum or clicking from the bottom of the washer with no movement.
• A faint burning smell in some cases.

Possible causes7

• Severe overload, or a garment caught between the inner and outer tub, stopping the drum.
• Loose connector or damaged wire between the motor and the main board.
• Faulty speed (tacho or Hall) sensor, or rotor position sensor on direct-drive motors.
• Worn carbon brushes on motors that use them.
• Failed motor windings, or a failed stator or rotor on direct-drive motors.
• Worn drum bearings making the drum hard to turn.
• Faulty motor drive circuit on the main board.

How to diagnose6

1. Unplug the washer and, once the door unlocks, remove part of the load if it is overloaded.
2. Turn the drum by hand with the washer unplugged: it should spin freely with no rubbing or rough noise.
3. Restart on a short program with a light load; if the code returns, the load is not the cause.
4. A technician unplugs the washer before opening it, then checks the motor connectors and wiring and measures the windings and speed sensor against the manufacturer specification.
5. The technician checks the carbon brushes or the rotor and stator depending on the motor type, and checks the bearings.
6. If the motor and wiring are good, the technician checks the motor drive circuit on the main board.

How to fix6

1. Reduce the load and remove any caught item if possible without opening the washer.
2. Repair the loose connector or damaged wire between the motor and the board.
3. Replace the speed sensor or carbon brushes if they are worn or faulty.
4. Replace the motor, or the failed part of a direct-drive motor.
5. Repair or replace the main board if the motor drive circuit is confirmed faulty.
6. Run a full wash and spin and confirm the drum turns smoothly and the code does not return.

Repair cost

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

The cost is low for a wiring repair, carbon brushes or a speed sensor, and reaches the high end when the motor or main board must be replaced.

Prices are rough estimates including the part and the technician’s fee, and vary with brand, model and part source.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions