Warning: Disconnect power before servicing.|Verified technical guides|1,100+ Error Codes Decoded

Samsung Washer E3 Error Code: Spin Speed Not Reached

Quick Answer

E3 is a spin performance fault, not a motor failure fault. The motor may be running but the drum cannot reach speed due to mechanical drag (bearing) or a physical obstruction in the tub.

E3 on a Samsung washer means the drum failed to reach the programmed spin speed during the spin ramp-up phase. The most common cause is a worn tub bearing that creates excessive drag, preventing the motor from spinning the drum fast enough. A jammed foreign object between the drum and tub, or a failing motor control board, can also produce E3.

SamsungWasherSeverity: moderateDifficulty: intermediate82% DIY Success

Time to Fix

60–180 min

Difficulty

intermediate

Parts Cost

$35 – $350

Tools Needed

Multimeter, Torx T20 screwdriver

What Does the E3 Code Mean?

E3 is a spin performance fault, not a motor failure fault. The motor may be running but the drum cannot reach speed due to mechanical drag (bearing) or a physical obstruction in the tub.

Most Likely Causes

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

Worn tub bearing creating mechanical drag on the drum40%

Foreign object (bra wire, coin) lodged between drum and tub24%

Worn or broken drive belt slipping under load22%

Motor control board failing to deliver adequate power to motor14%

Symptoms You May Notice

E3 code appears during spin cycle
Loud grinding or rumbling noise during spin
Drum turns slowly or not at all during spin
Vibration heavier than normal even at low spin speeds

Can you reset a Samsung washer to clear the E3 code?

Unplug for 60 seconds to clear the E3 fault after completing the repair. If the bearing or obstruction is not addressed, E3 will return immediately on the next spin.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

MultimeterTorx T20 screwdriverPhillips screwdriverBearing puller (if pressing bearing)

Diagnostic Checklist

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

With the machine unplugged

With the machine unplugged, reach into the drum and manually rotate it in both directions. A good bearing feels smooth with slight resistance. A failing bearing produces grinding, roughness, or a clunking sensation.

Inspect the gap between the drum and the tub opening

Run a spin-only cycle and observe whether the drum starts

If bearing diagnosis is confirmed, replace the tub bearing DC62-30115A

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
Tub BearingDC62-30115A · $35–$65	DC62-30115A	$35 – $65
Motor Control BoardDC92-01803A · $200–$350	DC92-01803A	$200 – $350

Verify part fitment for your Samsung model

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs

Labor Approach

Our Verdict

BORDERLINE

Estimated Cost: $193 (Parts) vs $750 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is replacing a Samsung washer tub bearing worth the cost?

If the machine is under 8 years old and the rest of the machine is in good condition, bearing replacement makes financial sense. On machines older than 10 years, weigh the repair cost against the replacement cost of a new washer.

Can I still use my Samsung washer with an E3 code if I select a low spin speed?

Temporarily, yes. At very low spin speeds the bearing drag may not prevent the drum from reaching speed. However, your clothes will come out wetter and continued use will worsen the bearing damage.

Related Samsung Washer Error Codes

Code: 3ESamsung Washer 3E Error Code: Motor Fault Code: 8CSamsung Washer 8C Error Code: Vibration Sensor 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 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 E3 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