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Error code reference

Viking Dishwasher Error Code Moisture Sensor Activated

Water detected in the base pan by the moisture (flood) sensor.

Viking codesViking dishwasher codes

Water detected in the base pan by the moisture (flood) sensor.

First step from the service manual

Check for water in the base pan; check for water leaks.

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

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What Moisture Sensor Activated means on a Viking dishwasher

The Moisture Sensor Activated error on a Viking dishwasher indicates that the float or moisture sensor located in the base pan beneath the wash tub has detected the presence of water. This sensor, sometimes called a flood sensor, is designed as a safety mechanism to prevent water damage to the surrounding cabinetry and flooring. When water accumulates in the base pan and contacts the sensor, the dishwasher halts its cycle and triggers this alert to notify the user of a potential leak condition.

The base pan sits at the very bottom of the dishwasher unit, below the tub assembly. Under normal operation, this area should remain completely dry. Water reaching this zone typically points to a leak somewhere in the water delivery or drain system. Common leak points include the door gasket, the pump housing, the sump assembly, the water inlet valve, the circulation pump seals, or any of the hose connections running between these components. A cracked tub or a loose hose clamp can also allow water to migrate downward into the base pan.

Before any further diagnosis of internal components, the base pan should be inspected directly by tilting or removing the dishwasher access panel. If standing water is present, identifying its source is the critical first step. Toweling out the base pan and running a short cycle while observing the interior for active drips can help pinpoint the origin of the leak. The sensor itself can occasionally trigger a false reading if it has become fouled with detergent residue or debris, though an active water leak remains the most common cause of this error.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of Moisture Sensor Activated

  1. 01

    Leaking Door Gasket

    Part replacement

    A worn, cracked, or displaced door gasket allows water to escape around the door during the wash cycle, dripping down into the base pan. Inspect the full perimeter of the door seal for tears, compression damage, or areas where the gasket has pulled away from the channel.

  2. 02

    Pump or Sump Seal Failure

    Part replacement

    The circulation pump and sump assembly use rubber seals that can degrade over time, allowing water to leak out of the sealed wash system and collect in the base pan. Evidence of this is often a slow drip visible near the center underside of the tub.

  3. 03

    Loose or Cracked Hose Connection

    Part replacement

    Hoses connecting the inlet valve, circulation pump, and drain pump can loosen at their clamp points or develop cracks, releasing water into the base pan during operation. Check each hose connection for moisture, mineral deposits, or visible cracking.

  4. 04

    Water Inlet Valve Leak

    Part replacement

    The water inlet valve can develop a slow drip at its body or at the hose fitting if the valve diaphragm has failed or if the connection has loosened over time. This leak typically occurs during the fill phase of the cycle.

  5. 05

    Fouled or Faulty Moisture Sensor

    Wiring / connection

    In rare cases, detergent residue, mineral buildup, or physical damage to the sensor itself can cause a false activation even when little or no water is present in the base pan. Cleaning the sensor contacts and confirming the base pan is fully dry before restarting can rule this out.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about Moisture Sensor Activated

What does Moisture Sensor Activated mean on a Viking dishwasher?
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.
How do I fix the Moisture Sensor Activated error on my Viking dishwasher?
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.
Is it safe to keep using my Viking dishwasher when this error appears?
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.
Will resetting the dishwasher clear the Moisture Sensor Activated error?
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.
How much does it cost to repair a Viking dishwasher showing this error?
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.

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