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Error code reference

Kenmore Dishwasher Error Code F6E3

Suds/air in pump

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What the F6E3 error code actually means

Your Kenmore dishwasher is detecting too much foam or air inside the pump, which is preventing it from moving water properly. This usually happens when the wrong soap was used, too much rinse aid leaked out, or dishes were loaded in a way that trapped water. In some cases, a small internal part called the diverter disk may be missing from the bottom of the dishwasher.

Diagnostic procedure

The full F6E3 procedure

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1
First diagnostic step
Allow unit to fill and wash for 1 minute. Open door and check for excessive sudsing. Confirm using proper dishwasher detergent. Check for excessive rinse aid leakage.
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Most common causes of F6E3

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Wrong type of detergent used
  2. 2Excessive rinse aid leakage
  3. 3Dishes trapping wash water
  4. 4Missing or dislodged diverter disk
  5. 5Water leaking into pump area

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Questions people ask about F6E3

What does F6E3 mean on a Kenmore dishwasher?
F6E3 signals that the dishwasher has detected suds or air in the pump, which interferes with normal water circulation. The most frequent causes are using the wrong detergent, excessive rinse aid leaking into the tub, dishes capturing water, or a missing diverter disk. The control triggers this code when it senses the pump is not moving water as expected.
Will resetting the dishwasher clear the F6E3 code?
A reset may clear the code temporarily, but it will return if the underlying cause is not corrected. If the fault was caused by a one-time detergent mistake, clearing the error and running a rinse cycle with the correct detergent may resolve it. However, if the diverter disk is missing or the rinse aid dispenser is damaged, the code will reappear until those issues are physically repaired.
How much does it cost to repair a Kenmore dishwasher with an F6E3 error?
If the fix is as simple as switching to the correct detergent or reseating the diverter disk, there may be little to no cost involved. Replacing a faulty rinse aid dispenser or diverter disk typically runs in the range of $15 to $60 for parts, depending on the specific model. If a technician is needed to diagnose an internal water leak or replace pump components, total repair costs including labor could range from $100 to $300 or more.
How do I fix the F6E3 error on my Kenmore dishwasher?
Start by allowing the unit to run for about one minute, then open the door and check for visible foam in the tub. If suds are present, confirm you are using a detergent specifically made for automatic dishwashers and check the rinse aid dispenser for leaks or overfilling. If no suds are visible, inspect the sump area for a missing or dislodged diverter disk by removing the lower spray arm and filter assembly. Reload any bowls or deep pots at an angle so they do not trap standing water.
Is it safe to keep using my dishwasher when the F6E3 code is active?
You should avoid running full cycles while this code is active, since the pump is not circulating water properly and dishes will not be cleaned effectively. If the cause is a water leak contributing to the fault, continuing to run the unit could allow water to reach electrical components. Identify and correct the cause before resuming normal use.

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