Whirlpool dishwasher — Error Code F6 E3
Suds or air detected in the wash pump assembly causing cavitation.
What it means
The F6 E3 error code on a Whirlpool dishwasher indicates that the main control board has detected an abnormal current draw from the wash motor. Specifically, the motor is drawing too little amperage, which tells the board the impeller is spinning in air or suds rather than solid water. This condition, known as cavitation, prevents the dishwasher from building adequate spray pressure. The control monitors the wash pump motor via the optical water indicator (OWI) sensor and motor current feedback. When sudsing occurs—usually from using regular dish soap, a leaking rinse aid dispenser, or severe protein soil interactions—the pump loses prime. Alternatively, a bowl placed upside down can trap air and release it into the sump, or a failing wash motor/impeller can trigger this fault.
Likely Causes
- 1 Excessive SudsUsing non-HE dish detergent, regular liquid dish soap, or a leaking rinse aid dispenser introduces heavy foam, causing the pump to cavitate.
- 2 Air in the SumpAn improperly loaded bowl or pot can trap a large pocket of air. When the water heats and expands, this air is forced into the pump.
- 3 Faulty OWI SensorThe Optical Water Indicator (OWI) sensor monitors water clarity and temperature. A fouled or failing OWI can send erratic data to the control board, falsely triggering the code.
- 4 Failing Wash MotorIf the wash motor bearings are failing or the impeller is stripped, the motor's current draw drops, mimicking a suds/air cavitation state.
How to clear / reset
To clear the F6 E3 code temporarily, press the 'Cancel/Drain' button to force the dishwasher to pump out the tub. Once drained, disconnect power at the breaker for 5 minutes to reset the main control board. If the tub is full of suds, you must neutralize them before restarting. Pour 1/2 cup of white vinegar or sprinkle a layer of salt over the foam, let it sit for 10 minutes, and run a 'Rinse Only' cycle. If the code returns immediately on a new cycle, the OWI sensor or wash motor requires physical testing and replacement.
Common replacement parts
When to call a pro
Call a professional if neutralizing the suds and resetting the dishwasher doesn't clear the F6 E3 code. Diagnosing a failing wash motor versus a defective OWI sensor requires a multimeter to check component resistance and running diagnostic test cycles from the control board. Axis Appliance Repair offers a $90 diagnostic (waived if you proceed with the repair) and backs all parts and labor with a 1-year warranty. We will accurately pinpoint the electrical fault and get your dishwasher running safely.
FAQs
Can I use regular dish soap if I only use a drop?
No. Even a single drop of regular liquid dish soap will create massive suds in the high-pressure environment of a dishwasher, immediately triggering the F6 E3 code and potentially causing leaks.
Will the F6 E3 code clear itself once the suds are gone?
You usually need to run a drain cycle and perform a hard reset by flipping the breaker for 5 minutes. If the suds are completely neutralized (using vinegar or salt), the code should stay clear.
How much does it cost to fix an F6 E3 error?
If it's just a suds issue, it costs nothing but time to clean it out. If the OWI sensor is faulty, repairs typically range from $130 to $180. A failed wash motor replacement can range from $250 to $400 including labor.
Can a dirty filter cause this code?
While a clogged filter usually triggers an F6 E4 (float switch) or F6 E1 (low water) code, severe restrictions can starve the wash pump of water, leading to the same cavitation (air in pump) symptoms that trigger F6 E3.
Is it safe to keep running the dishwasher with this code?
No. If the pump is cavitating, it is running dry. Running a wash motor without water lubrication can burn out the pump seals and motor bearings, turning a simple suds issue into an expensive motor replacement.
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