Viking Dishwasher Error Code POTS PANS + LED3

This error code indicates a Moisture Sensor Disconnect, meaning the control board is detecting an open or broken circuit in the moisture sensor loop. The moisture sensor monitors humidity levels inside the dishwasher tub to support proper drying operation. The fault points to either a disconnected wiring connector or a failed sensor. Diagnosis involves inspecting the sensor connection and testing the sensor circuit for continuity.

Operating the dishwasher with an active moisture sensor fault means the machine cannot properly monitor the drying cycle condition. While this may not create an immediate safety hazard, continued use without the sensor functioning could result in incomplete drying or the machine behaving unexpectedly. It is best to resolve the fault before regular use.

Repair costs vary depending on the cause. If the fix is simply reseating a disconnected connector, you may only pay a diagnostic service fee, typically in the range of $75 to $150. If the moisture sensor itself needs replacement, parts and labor combined can range from $150 to $350 or more depending on your location and the technician's rates. Wiring repairs fall somewhere in between depending on the complexity of the damage.

If you are comfortable working with appliance wiring, you can start by locating the moisture sensor and checking whether its connector is fully seated. Reseating a loose connector requires no parts and may clear the error. If the connector is secure, continuity testing with a multimeter can confirm whether the sensor has failed internally, which would require a replacement part. More complex wiring faults are best handled by a qualified technician.

A simple reset is unlikely to permanently clear this error because the code reflects an actual open circuit condition in the sensor wiring or sensor itself. If the underlying cause is not corrected, the control board will detect the fault again and re-display the code. The sensor connection or the sensor component must be inspected and repaired for the error to clear reliably.