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ErrBase

Samsung Dishwasher PC Error Code: Pressure Sensor Fault

Quick Answer

Samsung PC error code means the pressure sensor circuit is out of range. The part involved is DD96-01018A, the same sensor used for the 9E code. Check the air pressure tube feeding the sensor before replacing the sensor itself.

When I get called out for a PC error, I grab my flashlight and check that little air tube before I even open my parts bag. Most of the time it's gunked up or kinked. Ignore this code and your dishwasher will either flood or run completely dry, and Samsung control boards don't handle either of those situations for very long.

SamsungDishwasherSeverity: moderateDifficulty: intermediate80% DIY Success
Time to Fix
30–60 min
Difficulty
intermediate
Parts Cost
$15 – $28
Tools Needed
Phillips #2 screwdriver, Flashlight

What Does the PC Code Mean?

OK so basically Samsung switched from the old mechanical float switch to a digital pressure sensor a while back, and the PC code fires the second that sensor sends a reading the board doesn't recognize. I dealt with three of these last month alone. Nine times out of ten it's that tiny rubber air tube feeding the sensor, not the sensor itself. Cheap fix if you catch it early.

Most Likely Causes

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

Pressure sensor air tube kinked, blocked, or disconnected40%
Pressure sensor DD96-01018A failed24%
Mineral scale inside sensor housing affecting readings14%
Control board sensor input circuit fault12%
Connector pins corroded on sensor wiring harness10%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • The PC code flashes right at the start of the fill cycle, sometimes within the first 30 seconds before any water has even entered the tub.
  • Water just keeps running in and doesn't stop at the correct level, like the machine has no idea how full it is.
  • The dishwasher won't fill at all and throws the PC code instead of starting the wash.
  • Water level seems random from one cycle to the next, sometimes way too high, sometimes barely enough to cover the heating element.

Can you reset a Samsung dishwasher to clear the PC code?

Hold the Start or Cancel button for three seconds to clear the display. Then flip the breaker off for five full minutes, not just 30 seconds. When power comes back on, run a short rinse cycle and watch it through the fill phase. If the code doesn't return by the time the water stops and the wash motor kicks on, you're probably good. If it's back within two minutes, something's still wrong with the sensor circuit and a reset won't solve it.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Phillips #2 screwdriverFlashlightContact cleaner spraySmall pick or dental tool for pin cleaningMultimeter (optional, for checking sensor voltage signal)

Diagnostic Checklist

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

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
Pressure Sensor / Water Level SensorDD96-01018A · $15–$28

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between PC and 9E on a Samsung dishwasher?
Honestly, these two codes are basically twins. Both point to the same pressure sensor circuit and you'd check the same tube and the same sensor either way. The difference usually comes down to which software version your control board is running. PC tends to mean the board got a signal that's physically impossible or completely out of bounds. 9E usually means the signal was just slightly off for too long. Either way, start with the air tube and the DD96-01018A. Don't chase two different fixes for what's almost always the same problem.
Where is the pressure sensor on a Samsung dishwasher?
It's tucked against the side of the sump assembly, right behind the bottom kick plate. Small round plastic part, about the size of a silver dollar, with one wire harness connector and one little rubber tube coming off it. You don't need to pull the whole dishwasher out of the cabinet. Just remove the two kick plate screws, lie on your side, and look in with a flashlight. Give yourself five minutes and you'll spot it. The thin air hose is usually what catches your eye first.
Can I keep running my dishwasher while the PC code is showing?
I wouldn't. When the board can't read the water level, it's flying blind. It might overfill and you'll come back to water on your kitchen floor. Or it might underfill and run the heating element dry, which can warp the tub or crack the element. Neither repair is cheap. If the code clears after a reset and the machine runs fine, you might get away with a cycle or two, but get that air tube checked before you start running it every night.
How much does it cost to fix the Samsung PC error code?
If it's just the air tube, basically nothing. A few minutes of your time. If the sensor itself is dead, the DD96-01018A runs around $20 to $35 depending on where you source it, and swapping it yourself takes maybe 20 minutes once the kick plate is off. Call a tech out and expect $100 to $150 in labor on top of the part cost. This is honestly one of those repairs where DIY makes a lot of sense. The part is cheap, the access isn't bad, and there's no gas or refrigerant involved.
How do I clean out the pressure sensor air tube?
Pull the tube off both ends, the sensor side and the sump port side. Rinse it under warm running water, then blow through it hard to clear any loose buildup. If you can feel a scale deposit inside that won't budge, soak it in white vinegar for 15 minutes and rinse again. If the tube is cracked, permanently kinked, or the inside wall feels rough and gritty, just replace it. It's usually a standard 5mm ID vinyl tube and costs almost nothing at any hardware store. Don't reuse a damaged tube just to save a couple bucks.

Related Samsung Dishwasher Error Codes

Code: 9ESamsung Dishwasher 9E Error Code: Water Level Sensor FaultCode: 4CSamsung Dishwasher 4C Error Code: Water Supply Fault

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 StallSamsung washerSamsung Washer 3E Error Code: Motor FaultSamsung 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 FaultSamsung washerSamsung Washer 8E Error Code: Motor Frequency Sensor Fault

Models Known to Experience PC Errors

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

DW80R9950US, DW80R2031US, DW80T5040US, DW80K5050US, DW80N6070US, DW80M9550US

MS

Written by

Mike Sullivan

Lead Appliance Repair Technician · 20 years experience

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026