Viking Dishwasher Error Code Moisture Sensor Activated

This error means the flood sensor in the base pan at the bottom of the dishwasher has detected water where it should not be. The dishwasher shuts down automatically as a safety precaution to prevent further water damage. It almost always indicates an active or recent water leak somewhere inside the unit. The base pan should be inspected and the source of the water identified before the machine is used again.

No, you should stop using the dishwasher until the source of the water is found and repaired. Continuing to run the machine risks additional water leaking onto your floors and into cabinetry, which can cause significant structural or cosmetic damage. The dishwasher's automatic shutdown is intentional and designed to protect your home.

Repair costs vary widely depending on the source of the leak. A door gasket replacement typically runs in the range of $50 to $150 for parts and labor. Pump seal or inlet valve repairs can range from $100 to $300 or more depending on parts pricing and labor rates in your area. If the tub itself is cracked, repair costs can be significantly higher and replacement may be more practical.

Start by removing the lower access panel and checking the base pan for standing water. If water is present, dry it out completely and run a short cycle while watching the interior components for active dripping to locate the leak source. Common repairs include replacing the door gasket, tightening or replacing hose connections, or replacing pump seals or the inlet valve. Once the leak is repaired and the base pan is dry, the error should clear on its own.

A reset may temporarily clear the error display, but if water remains in the base pan or the underlying leak has not been fixed, the sensor will activate again as soon as the unit runs. The error will continue to return until the base pan is dried out and the source of the leak is repaired. Resetting without addressing the root cause is not a lasting solution.