Samsung Dishwasher Not Washing: Causes and Fixes

Quick Answer

Samsung dishwashers split into two washing technologies: traditional spinning spray arm models (DW80K series and earlier) and WaterWall models (DW80R series) where a linear reflector sweeps back and forth. When a WaterWall model does not wash, the reflector arm drive mechanism is a Samsung-specific failure point that does not exist on other brands. The reflector arm motor is a DC motor at the back of the tub that drives the reflector along a rail - if this motor fails, the WaterWall cannot generate wash coverage even though the circulation pump runs. On traditional Samsung spray arm models, the circulation pump motor is the primary suspect, usually confirmed by a 3E error code during the wash phase.

SamsungDishwasherSeverity: highDifficulty: intermediate78% DIY Success

Time to Fix

30–120 min

Difficulty

intermediate

Parts Cost

$25 – $140

Tools Needed

Multimeter, Torx T20 screwdriver

What Does the NOT-WASHING Code Mean?

Samsung dishwashers not washing have either a failed circulation pump (all models) or a failed WaterWall reflector arm motor (DW80R WaterWall models). Check which type you have before diagnosing.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

WaterWall reflector arm drive motor failure (DW80R series)40%

WaterWall reflector arm jammed by tall item on lower rack24%

Circulation pump motor failure (all Samsung models)14%

Spray arm blocked or cracked (traditional models)12%

Control board not sending pump activation signal10%

Symptoms You May Notice

Dishwasher fills with water but no spray or washing occurs
3E error code displayed during wash phase
WaterWall reflector arm not moving (visible through door)
Dishes completely dirty after a full cycle
Weak hum but no spray sound after fill

Can you reset a Samsung dishwasher to clear the NOT-WASHING code?

Press Cancel or hold Power for 3 seconds to cancel the current cycle. Turn off the circuit breaker for 60 seconds. Restore power. If the pump motor or WaterWall reflector motor has electrically failed, a reset will not fix it - component replacement is required.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

MultimeterTorx T20 screwdriverFlashlightWork gloves

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

Identify your Samsung model type

Identify your Samsung model type. On DW80R series models, look through the door glass - you will see a linear reflector arm at the bottom (WaterWall technology). On DW80K and earlier models, you will see traditional spinning spray arms. The diagnosis path differs for each.

For WaterWall models

Enter diagnostic mode (hold Start for 5 seconds) and run test 02

Test the circulation pump motor

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name	OEM Number	Estimated Price
Circulation Pump and Motor AssemblyDD31-00005A · $70–$140	DD31-00005A	$70 – $140
WaterWall Reflector Arm AssemblyDD97-00258A · $25–$55	DD97-00258A	$25 – $55
WaterWall Drive MotorDD31-00097A · $45–$90	DD31-00097A	$45 – $90

Verify part fitment for your Samsung model

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs

Labor Approach

Our Verdict

REPAIR

Estimated Cost: $83 (Parts) vs $675 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Samsung WaterWall and why does it affect washing?

Samsung WaterWall technology (used in DW80R series and select other models) replaces traditional spinning spray arms with a linear reflector that sweeps back and forth along the bottom of the tub, creating a wall of water. When the WaterWall reflector drive motor fails or the reflector arm is blocked, the dishwasher cannot generate wash coverage. This is a Samsung-specific failure point with no equivalent on other brands. Check for tall items blocking the sweep path before suspecting the drive motor.

What does a 3E error code mean on a Samsung dishwasher?

Samsung error code 3E indicates the wash motor (circulation pump) failed to start or stalled during operation. The control board sent the pump activation signal but detected no current draw, or the current draw was abnormally low. Confirm by testing the pump motor with a multimeter - measure resistance across the motor terminals with power off. A healthy Samsung circulation pump reads 3-8 ohms; OL means the motor windings have failed and the pump assembly needs replacement.

Can I fix a Samsung WaterWall reflector arm problem myself?

Yes. If the reflector arm is blocked by a food item or tall dish, clearing it is a zero-cost fix. If the reflector arm itself is cracked or the rail is damaged, the replacement arm (DD97-00258A, around $25-55) snaps into the existing rail and requires no tools. If the reflector drive motor has failed (the arm is clear and slides freely but does not move in diagnostic mode), the motor (DD31-00097A, around $45-90) requires removing the lower spray arm assembly and a few screws to access - intermediate difficulty.

Related Samsung Dishwasher Error Codes

Code: DIAG-MODESamsung Dishwasher Diagnostic Mode: Full Guide Code: NO-WATERSamsung Dishwasher No Water: How to Fix Code: HUBSamsung Dishwasher Error Codes: Complete Guide

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Samsung shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.

Samsung washerSamsung Washer 3C2 Error Code: Motor Stall Samsung washerSamsung Washer 3E Error Code: Motor Fault Samsung washerSamsung Washer 4C Error Code: No Water Supply Samsung washerSamsung Washer 4E Error Code: Water Supply Fault (Top Load)Samsung washerSamsung Washer 5C Error Code: Drain Error (Older Display)Samsung washerSamsung Washer 8C Error Code: Vibration Sensor Fault

Models Known to Experience NOT-WASHING Errors

This repair applies to most Samsung dishwashers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

DW80R9950US, DW80R7060US, DW80R5060US, DW80R2031US, DW80K7050US, DW80K5050US, DW80R2031WS, DW80T5040US

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026