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Error code reference

Kenmore Dishwasher Error Code 10-3

Drying fan error

Kenmore codesKenmore dishwasher codes

Drying fan error — loose connection in fan circuit, open fan motor, or faulty fan drive circuit on control (on models with fan).

First step from the service manual

Unplug dishwasher or disconnect power and check resistances of fan motor and all connections in the fan circuit.

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

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What 10-3 means on a Kenmore dishwasher

Error code 10-3 on a Kenmore dishwasher indicates the control board has detected a fault in the drying fan circuit. The board monitors the fan motor's operation and signals this code when it cannot confirm normal fan function. The fault can originate from a loose or broken connection in the wiring harness feeding the fan, an open (failed) fan motor winding, or a failed fan drive circuit on the control board itself. This code only applies to Kenmore dishwasher models equipped with a powered drying fan.

For homeowners, the drying fan is a small motor that circulates air inside the dishwasher tub during the drying cycle to speed up drying performance. When the control board sends power to the fan and gets no response, it throws the 10-3 code. Your dishes may come out wet, and the drying cycle may not complete normally. The dishwasher is not in a dangerous state, but the drying function is impaired.

Diagnosis starts with unplugging the dishwasher and using a multimeter to check the resistance of the fan motor windings and inspect all connectors in the fan circuit for looseness, corrosion, or damage. A motor with an open winding will read infinite resistance and must be replaced. If the motor and wiring check out, the control board's fan drive circuit is the likely culprit.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 10-3

  1. 01

    Loose or disconnected wiring in the fan circuit

    Wiring / connection

    A connector in the harness between the control board and the drying fan motor may have vibrated loose or corroded, breaking the circuit. This is the first thing to check because it requires no parts and is resolved by reseating or cleaning the connector.

  2. 02

    Open fan motor winding

    Part replacement

    The drying fan motor's internal winding can fail and break continuity, producing an infinite resistance reading on a multimeter. An open winding means no current flows through the motor, so the control board detects no fan operation and triggers the 10-3 code.

  3. 03

    Faulty fan drive circuit on the control board

    Part replacement

    If the fan motor and all wiring connections test within spec, the portion of the control board responsible for driving the fan motor may have failed. A failed drive circuit means the board cannot send proper voltage or signal to the motor even if the motor itself is functional.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 10-3

What does error code 10-3 mean on a Kenmore dishwasher?
Code 10-3 means the control board has detected a problem in the drying fan circuit. The fault could be a loose wiring connection to the fan motor, a failed fan motor with an open winding, or a faulty fan drive circuit on the control board. This code only appears on Kenmore dishwasher models that have a powered drying fan.
Can I still use my Kenmore dishwasher when it shows error code 10-3?
The dishwasher will likely still wash and rinse, but the drying cycle will be impaired or non-functional since the drying fan is the affected component. Running the dishwasher this way is generally safe, but expect wet dishes at the end of the cycle. Leaving the door cracked open after the cycle can help compensate until the fan issue is repaired.
How do I fix error code 10-3 on a Kenmore dishwasher?
Start by unplugging the dishwasher or shutting off the circuit breaker. Locate the drying fan motor and inspect all connectors in the wiring harness for looseness or corrosion. Use a multimeter to check resistance across the fan motor terminals. A working motor will show continuity with a low resistance value; an open winding reads infinite resistance and means the motor needs replacement. If the motor and wiring are good, the control board's fan drive circuit is the next suspect and the board will need to be replaced.
How much does it cost to fix a 10-3 error on a Kenmore dishwasher?
If the fix is a loose connector, there is no parts cost. A replacement drying fan motor typically costs between $20 and $60 depending on the model. A replacement control board is the most expensive scenario, generally ranging from $80 to $200 or more for the part. Professional labor adds $100 to $200 in most markets. Checking the wiring and motor resistance yourself before calling a technician can save money by confirming which part is actually at fault.
How do I test the drying fan motor to diagnose a 10-3 code?
Unplug the dishwasher first, then locate the fan motor, which is typically mounted near the bottom or back of the tub. Disconnect the wiring connector from the motor and place a multimeter on the ohms setting across the motor terminals. A functional motor will show some resistance, typically in the range of a few hundred ohms, though the exact spec varies by model. A reading of infinity or OL indicates an open winding and a failed motor that must be replaced. Also check the connector pins for corrosion or bent terminals while the connector is off.

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