GE Dishwasher Error Code AUTO & HEAVY flash

The AUTO and HEAVY cycle indicators flashing together signal a drain fault. The dishwasher attempted to drain water from the tub but was unable to complete the process within 120 seconds. When this happens, the control board stops the wash program to prevent damage. The fault points to the drain pump, drain hose, filter, wiring, or main control board as possible sources of the problem.

No, you should not run the dishwasher while this fault is active. The control board has already stopped the program because water was not draining properly. Forcing the unit to run with standing water in the tub can stress the pump and other components, and the water needs to be cleared before normal operation can resume.

Repair costs vary depending on the failed component. Cleaning the filter and hose yourself costs nothing beyond your time. A replacement drain pump typically runs in the range of $50 to $120 for the part, with additional labor costs if you hire a technician. A main control board is generally more expensive, often ranging from $100 to $250 or more for the part alone, making professional diagnosis worthwhile before committing to that repair.

Start by cleaning the filter and sump area at the bottom of the tub, as clogged debris is the most common cause. Next, check that the drain hose is not kinked or blocked where it connects to the sink drain or garbage disposal. If those areas are clear, test the drain pump for electrical continuity and verify that the wiring harness connections are secure and free of corrosion. If the pump and wiring check out, the main control board may need to be inspected or replaced.

A reset may temporarily clear the displayed fault, but if the underlying drain problem has not been corrected, the error will return as soon as the dishwasher reaches the drain portion of the next cycle. Address the root cause first, such as cleaning the filter or clearing the drain hose, before attempting to reset and restart the unit.