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Error code reference

GE Dishwasher Error Code AUTO & HEAVY

Drain fault

GE codesGE dishwasher codes

Drain fault — water not drained after 120 seconds; program stopped.

First step from the service manual

Check drain pump, blocked drain hose, main control, wiring, and whether filter needs cleaning.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What AUTO & HEAVY means on a GE dishwasher

The AUTO & HEAVY error code on a GE dishwasher indicates a drain fault. Specifically, the control board detected that the dishwasher failed to drain within 120 seconds of initiating the drain cycle. When this timeout is exceeded without the water level dropping to the expected point, the control board halts the program entirely to prevent overflow, motor damage, or further operational errors. This code points directly to a failure somewhere in the drain system or its associated controls.

The drain system involves several components that must work together: the drain pump motor, the drain hose routing, and the main control board that commands and monitors the sequence. A blocked or kinked drain hose will prevent water from exiting even if the pump is functioning correctly. Similarly, a clogged filter assembly at the bottom of the tub can restrict water flow to the pump inlet, effectively starving the pump and preventing successful drainage within the allowed window.

Wiring faults between the control board and the drain pump can also trigger this condition. If the pump receives no signal or insufficient voltage due to a broken wire or loose connector, it will not activate. The main control board itself can fail in ways that prevent it from properly initiating or timing the drain sequence. Technicians should approach diagnosis by first ruling out the most accessible causes, such as filter blockage and hose obstructions, before testing the pump motor and control board.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of AUTO & HEAVY

  1. 01

    Clogged or dirty filter

    Wiring / connection

    A filter that is heavily loaded with food debris restricts water flow to the drain pump inlet, preventing the pump from moving water out fast enough. Remove and rinse the filter assembly at the bottom of the tub to check for buildup.

  2. 02

    Blocked or kinked drain hose

    Wiring / connection

    The drain hose can become kinked behind the dishwasher or clogged with grease and debris along its length, preventing water from exiting. Inspect the full hose run from the dishwasher to the sink drain or garbage disposal connection.

  3. 03

    Failed drain pump

    Part replacement

    The drain pump motor may have seized, burned out, or have a foreign object lodged in the impeller, causing it to fail to move water. You can often hear whether the pump is attempting to run during the drain cycle as a diagnostic check.

  4. 04

    Faulty main control board

    Part replacement

    If the control board fails to send the proper signal to activate the drain pump, or if it incorrectly times out the drain sequence, the dishwasher will stop and display this fault. This is typically diagnosed after the pump and wiring have been ruled out.

  5. 05

    Wiring or connector fault

    Wiring / connection

    A loose, corroded, or broken wire in the circuit between the control board and the drain pump can interrupt the signal or power needed to run the pump. Inspect connectors at both the pump and the control board for damage or poor contact.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about AUTO & HEAVY

What does AUTO & HEAVY mean on a GE dishwasher?
The AUTO & HEAVY code on a GE dishwasher signals a drain fault. The dishwasher attempted to drain but could not complete the process within 120 seconds, so the control board stopped the program. This points to a problem in the drain system, such as a blocked filter, obstructed hose, or a failed drain pump. The cycle will not continue until the underlying cause is resolved.
Can I fix the AUTO & HEAVY drain fault myself?
Some causes are DIY-friendly. Cleaning the filter and checking the drain hose for kinks or blockages require no special tools and should be your first steps. If those checks do not resolve the issue, testing the drain pump and inspecting wiring connections requires more technical skill and a multimeter. Control board replacement is generally best handled by a qualified technician.
Is it safe to use my GE dishwasher while this code is active?
No, you should not attempt to run the dishwasher while the drain fault is present. The control board stops the program specifically because water is not draining correctly, and forcing additional cycles could leave standing water in the tub, potentially leading to leaks, odors, or pump damage. Resolve the drain issue before running another cycle.
How much does it cost to repair a GE dishwasher drain fault?
Repair costs vary depending on the cause. Cleaning the filter costs nothing, while replacing a drain hose typically runs in the range of $15 to $50 for the part. A new drain pump generally costs between $50 and $150 for the part, with additional labor if a technician is hired. Main control board replacement tends to be the most expensive repair, with parts ranging from $100 to $300 or more depending on the model.
Will resetting my GE dishwasher clear the AUTO & HEAVY error code?
A reset may temporarily clear the code and allow a new cycle to start, but if the underlying drain problem is not fixed, the fault will return as soon as the dishwasher attempts to drain again. Resetting is useful for confirming whether the issue is intermittent, but it is not a repair. Address the root cause in the drain system to prevent the code from recurring.

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