Viking Dishwasher Error Code E:16
Drain pump blocked fault
Drain pump blocked fault — at drain cycle steps, the pressure switch position is checked with 5 seconds left to finish step; if it still stays closed, fault is triggered. Not currently applicable to Viking units.
First step from the service manual
Check for faulty drain pump, faulty pressure switch, or faulty electronics.
The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.
Get the full diagnostic procedure for E:16.
- Step-by-step tests with expected resistance, voltage, and continuity values
- Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
- Verified part numbers when replacement is required
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What E:16 means on a Viking dishwasher
The E:16 error code on a Viking dishwasher indicates a drain pump blocked fault. This fault is triggered during the drain cycle when the control system monitors the pressure switch status. Specifically, with 5 seconds remaining in a drain step, the controller checks whether the pressure switch has opened, indicating water has been successfully removed. If the pressure switch remains in the closed position at that point, the system interprets this as a failure to drain and triggers the E:16 fault. The pressure switch communicates water level status to the electronics, so a blockage, component failure, or control board issue can all cause this sequence to fail.
The three primary components involved in this fault are the drain pump, the pressure switch, and the main electronics board. The drain pump is responsible for physically evacuating water from the tub. If it is obstructed by debris or has failed mechanically or electrically, water will remain in the tub and the pressure switch will stay closed. A faulty pressure switch may also hold a closed signal regardless of actual water level, misleading the controller into triggering the fault even when draining is occurring normally.
It is worth noting that this fault code is listed as not currently applicable to Viking units. This means E:16 may appear in the underlying platform shared with other brands but is not an active, expected code in standard Viking dishwasher diagnostics. Despite this, the fault logic is still defined in the system, and the same drain pump, pressure switch, and electronics checks apply if this code is ever encountered during service.
Source: manufacturer service documentation.
Common causes of E:16
- 01
Blocked or clogged drain pump
Wiring / connectionFood debris, broken glass, or foreign objects can obstruct the drain pump impeller, preventing it from evacuating water. Inspect the pump for visible blockages and check whether the impeller spins freely.
- 02
Failed drain pump motor
Part replacementThe drain pump motor may have failed electrically or mechanically, leaving it unable to operate even when the control board sends a run signal. A failed motor will need to be replaced.
- 03
Faulty pressure switch
Part replacementThe pressure switch monitors water level and signals the control board when the tub is empty. If the switch is defective and remains in the closed position even after draining, it will trigger the E:16 fault incorrectly.
- 04
Faulty main electronics board
Part replacementThe control board interprets pressure switch signals and manages drain cycle timing. A malfunctioning board may misread the switch status or fail to properly execute the drain sequence, triggering the fault.
Frequently asked questions about E:16
What does E:16 mean on a Viking dishwasher?
Can I fix the E:16 error on my Viking dishwasher myself?
Is it safe to use my Viking dishwasher when E:16 is displayed?
How much does it cost to repair a Viking dishwasher showing error E:16?
Will resetting my Viking dishwasher clear the E:16 error code?
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