GE · Dishwasher Moderate

C4 — Overfill / Filled Twice After Power Loss

C4 indicates a water overfill condition — the dishwasher filled twice (often after a power interruption), or the float/sump is reporting too much water. Check the float for free movement and the sump for debris, and the water inlet valve for proper shutoff. It is not a water-circulation-verification code.

Keep using it?
Yes, with caution
DIY difficulty
Moderate
Verified against
geappliances.com ↗

How to fix it

  1. Remove lower rack, spray arms, and filter; clear chopper area of debris.
  2. Spin the wash impeller by hand — it should turn freely.
  3. Clean the turbidity sensor lens (small clear window in the sump) with a soft cloth and vinegar.
  4. Inspect harness connectors at the wash pump and sensor.
  5. If pump hums or is silent with proper voltage, replace the circulation/wash motor assembly.

Why it happens

Typical signs: C4 mid-cycle · Dishes not cleaning · Quiet operation (pump not running) · Cycle stalls

  • Blocked spray arms or chopper Glass shards or large food chunks bound the chopper/wash impeller.
  • Failed wash motor Open winding, seized bearing, or failed start capacitor on the circulation pump.
  • Dirty turbidity sensor Sensor lens fouled with food film, giving false readings.
  • Loose wiring at motor or sensor Connector unseated in the sump area from prior service.

Parts you may need

If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

  • GE dishwasher circulation pump motor Common replacement
    Amazon →
  • GE dishwasher chopper assembly Common replacement
    Amazon →

More GE dishwasher codes

1h 1h — Delay Start Active C1 C1 Error — Slow Drain (Over 2 Minutes) C2 C2 Error — Drain Cycle Too Long (Over 7 Minutes) C5 C5 — Underfill / Short Drain Time C7 C7 — Water Temperature Sensor (Thermistor) Fault C8 C8 — Detergent Dispenser Fault

All GE codes → All dishwasher codes →

Frequently asked questions

What does the C4 code mean on a GE dishwasher?

C4 indicates a water overfill condition — the dishwasher filled twice (often after a power interruption), or the float/sump is reporting too much water. Check the float for free movement and the sump for debris, and the water inlet valve for proper shutoff. It is not a water-circulation-verification code.

What causes the C4 code on a GE dishwasher?

Blocked spray arms or chopper: Glass shards or large food chunks bound the chopper/wash impeller. Failed wash motor: Open winding, seized bearing, or failed start capacitor on the circulation pump. Dirty turbidity sensor: Sensor lens fouled with food film, giving false readings.

Is it safe to keep using a GE dishwasher with a C4 error?

Yes, with caution. This is rated a moderate-severity fault.

How do I fix C4 on a GE dishwasher?

Remove lower rack, spray arms, and filter; clear chopper area of debris. Spin the wash impeller by hand — it should turn freely. Clean the turbidity sensor lens (small clear window in the sump) with a soft cloth and vinegar.

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician. Verified against manufacturer documentation: geappliances.com.