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ErrBase

Samsung Washer 3C2 Error Code: Motor Stall

Quick Answer

3C2 is a motor stall variant within the Samsung 3E motor fault family. Where 3E covers a general motor fault, 3C2 specifically indicates the rotor stopped rotating mid-cycle. A locked rotor can be caused by a foreign object between the drum and tub, a failed hall sensor sending incorrect position data, a seized stator, or a failed rotor magnet assembly.

3C2 is a motor stall variant within the Samsung 3E motor fault family. Where 3E covers a general motor fault, 3C2 specifically indicates the rotor stopped rotating mid-cycle. A locked rotor can be caused by a foreign object between the drum and tub, a failed hall sensor sending incorrect position data, a seized stator, or a failed rotor magnet assembly. Start with the simplest check: manually rotate the rotor to confirm it is not physically locked.

SamsungWasherSeverity: highDifficulty: advanced80% DIY Success
Time to Fix
60–150 min
Difficulty
advanced
Parts Cost
$15 – $150
Tools Needed
Multimeter, Torx T20 screwdriver
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motor locked, drum won't spin
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What Does the 3C2 Code Mean?

3C2 fires when the motor stalls during operation. The most common mechanical causes are the same as 3E (hall sensor, stator) but 3C2 specifically indicates a stall event rather than a pre-start fault. The rotor magnet assembly is an additional suspect unique to stall-during-operation events.

Most Likely Causes

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

Hall sensor failed causing incorrect rotor position data40%
Foreign object locking the rotor during operation24%
Rotor magnet assembly demagnetized or cracked22%
Stator winding failed under load14%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • 3C2 code mid-cycle during wash or spin
  • Motor attempts to start then immediately stops
  • Drum moves briefly then locks with 3C2
  • Machine restarts multiple times before displaying 3C2

Can you reset a Samsung washer to clear the 3C2 code?

Unplug for 60 seconds after completing any repair. 3C2 will not clear on a reset alone if the root cause is not fixed.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

MultimeterTorx T20 screwdriverPhillips screwdriverSocket wrench (rotor bolt)

Diagnostic Checklist

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

1

Unplug the washer and wait 5 minutes

Unplug the washer and wait 5 minutes. Remove the rear panel to access the motor. Attempt to rotate the rotor by hand. A healthy motor should turn with moderate magnetic resistance but rotate smoothly.

2

Inspect for foreign objects between the drum and the outer tub

3

Test the hall sensor

4

Test the stator windings

5

Remove the rotor assembly (one bolt in center)

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
Hall Sensor (Rotor Position Sensor)DC96-01003B · $15–$25
Rotor AssemblyDC31-00085D · $45–$80
Stator AssemblyDC31-00055D · $80–$150

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $83 (Parts) vs $750 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 3C2 more serious than the 3E motor error on Samsung washers?
3C2 is a specific subtype of the 3E family. Both involve motor failure. 3C2 specifically records that the motor stalled during a running cycle, which can indicate more severe damage than a pre-start motor fault. In practice, the diagnostic process and parts involved are similar.
Can I test the rotor magnets without a special tool?
Yes. Use a strong refrigerator magnet held near each section of the rotor ring as you slowly rotate it. You should feel consistent magnetic attraction around the full circumference. A weak or absent pull on one section indicates demagnetization in that area.
How do I remove the Samsung washer rotor?
On front-load models, access is from the rear panel. The rotor is held by a single center bolt. Remove the bolt, then pull the rotor straight back off the motor shaft. No special tools are needed for removal.

Related Samsung Washer Error Codes

Code: 3ESamsung Washer 3E Error Code: Motor FaultCode: AC6Samsung Washer AC6 Error Code: Motor Communication Fault

Same Fix on Other Brands

Lg washerLE: LG Washer LE Error Code

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 3E Error Code: Motor FaultSamsung washerSamsung Washer 4C Error Code: No Water SupplySamsung 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 3C2 Errors

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

WF45R6100AW, WF45T6000AW, WF45R6300AW, WF50R8500AV, WF45H5200AW

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026