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Error code reference

GE Dishwasher Error Code F148

Open TCO in circulation or drain motor.

GE codesGE dishwasher codes

Open TCO in circulation or drain motor.

First step from the service manual

Check harness, replace affected motor.

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

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What F148 means on a GE dishwasher

The F148 error code on a GE dishwasher indicates an open Thermal Cut-Out (TCO) in either the circulation motor or the drain motor. A TCO is a one-time thermal protection device built into the motor winding circuit. When a motor overheats beyond a safe operating threshold, the TCO opens the circuit permanently to prevent fire or further damage. Once the TCO trips, continuity through that circuit is broken, and the control board detects the open condition and triggers F148.

The circulation motor drives the wash pump that pressurizes water through the spray arms during the wash cycle. The drain motor powers the pump that removes water at the end of each cycle. Either motor can contain a TCO, and F148 applies to both. The most common underlying causes of TCO failure are motor overheating due to a seized impeller, a failing motor bearing, sustained voltage irregularities, or repeated blockages that force the motor to work harder than its rated load.

Diagnosing F148 should begin with a thorough inspection of the wiring harness connected to both motors. Look for pinched wires, corroded terminals, or broken connectors that could mimic an open TCO. If the harness checks out, use a multimeter to test continuity across the TCO terminals of each motor. An open reading confirms TCO failure, and since TCOs are not resettable or individually replaceable in most motor assemblies, the entire affected motor will need to be replaced.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F148

  1. 01

    Blown TCO from motor overheating

    Part replacement

    The most frequent cause is the motor itself overheating to the point where the internal TCO opens permanently. This can happen after sustained heavy use, a partial blockage, or a motor that is nearing end of life.

  2. 02

    Seized or jammed impeller

    Wiring / connection

    A foreign object such as broken glass, a label, or food debris lodged in the pump impeller can cause the motor to stall and overheat rapidly, triggering the TCO. Inspect the pump cavity for obstructions before replacing the motor.

  3. 03

    Damaged or corroded wiring harness

    Wiring / connection

    A broken wire, corroded connector terminal, or pinched harness between the control board and the motor can create an open circuit that the control board reads as a tripped TCO. Check all connectors and harness routing before condemning the motor.

  4. 04

    Failed motor bearing

    Part replacement

    A worn motor bearing increases mechanical resistance and causes the motor to draw excess current and generate abnormal heat, eventually tripping the TCO. Unusual grinding or humming sounds before the error appeared are indicators of this cause.

  5. 05

    Sustained voltage irregularities

    Wiring / connection

    Low or unstable supply voltage forces the motor to work harder to maintain speed, generating excess heat over time. Verify that the dishwasher is receiving correct supply voltage at the junction box if motor overheating is recurrent.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F148

What does F148 mean on a GE dishwasher?
F148 indicates that the control board has detected an open Thermal Cut-Out (TCO) in either the circulation motor or the drain motor. The TCO is a built-in safety device that permanently breaks the motor circuit when it overheats. This code means at minimum one motor has exceeded its safe temperature threshold and requires inspection or replacement.
Can I fix F148 myself, or do I need a technician?
A knowledgeable DIYer can perform the initial diagnostics, including checking the wiring harness for damage and inspecting the pump cavity for blockages. If the TCO itself has opened, the affected motor must be replaced, which involves disconnecting electrical connectors and unbolting the pump assembly. If you are comfortable working with appliance electrical systems and following proper lockout procedures, this is a manageable repair. Otherwise, a qualified technician is recommended.
Is it safe to keep using my dishwasher with an F148 error?
No, you should not continue running the dishwasher while F148 is active. The TCO tripped because a motor reached an unsafe temperature, and running the appliance again without resolving the root cause could result in further damage to the control board or wiring. In some cases, a failing motor can pose a fire risk. The dishwasher should remain off until the affected motor is inspected and replaced if necessary.
Will resetting the dishwasher clear the F148 error?
Resetting the dishwasher by cutting power may temporarily clear the error code from the display, but it will not resolve the underlying problem. Because a TCO is a one-time device that does not reset when it cools, the open circuit will still be present when power is restored and the control board will detect F148 again. A lasting fix requires replacing the motor with the failed TCO.
How much does it cost to repair a GE dishwasher with an F148 error?
Repair costs vary depending on which motor has failed and local labor rates. A replacement circulation or drain motor typically costs between $60 and $180 for the part alone. If you hire a technician, total repair costs including labor generally range from $150 to $350. Diagnosing the harness first is worthwhile since a wiring repair can cost significantly less than a full motor replacement.

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