Samsung · Dishwasher Serious

5C2 — Drain pump won't run or stalls

The drain pump fails to start, runs only briefly, or stalls under load. Different from 5C/SC which is no level change detected.

Keep using it?
Limited use only
DIY difficulty
Moderate
Verified against
samsung.com ↗

How to fix it

  1. Disconnect power and pull the dishwasher; access the drain pump from below.
  2. Remove pump and inspect impeller — clear any debris and verify it spins freely.
  3. Reseat the pump's electrical connector and check wires for chafing.
  4. Test motor windings with a multimeter; replace pump if out of spec.
  5. If pump and wiring are good, replace the main control board.

Why it happens

Typical signs: 5C2 on display · No pump-out sound at drain phase · Pump hums briefly then stops · Standing water remains

  • Drain pump impeller jammed Glass, pit, or hard debris wedged against impeller stalls the motor.
  • Failed drain pump motor BLDC motor electronics or windings failed.
  • Loose pump wiring Connector at pump or board not seated.
  • Main board drain driver failed Triac or FET on the control board damaged.

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.

  • Samsung dishwasher drain pump Common replacement
    Amazon →
  • Samsung dishwasher main control board Common replacement
    Amazon →

More Samsung dishwasher codes

1C 1C — Low water level / fails to start 1E 1E / IE — Filter clogged / heater fault 3C 3C Error — Wash Pump Failure 3E 3E — Hot water supply too hot 4C 4C / 4E — Water Supply Error 4C5 4C5 / 4E5 — Fill timeout with dry tub

All Samsung codes → All dishwasher codes →

Frequently asked questions

What does the 5C2 code mean on a Samsung dishwasher?

The drain pump fails to start, runs only briefly, or stalls under load. Different from 5C/SC which is no level change detected.

What causes the 5C2 code on a Samsung dishwasher?

Drain pump impeller jammed: Glass, pit, or hard debris wedged against impeller stalls the motor. Failed drain pump motor: BLDC motor electronics or windings failed. Loose pump wiring: Connector at pump or board not seated.

Is it safe to keep using a Samsung dishwasher with a 5C2 error?

Limited use only. This is rated a serious-severity fault.

How do I fix 5C2 on a Samsung dishwasher?

Disconnect power and pull the dishwasher; access the drain pump from below. Remove pump and inspect impeller — clear any debris and verify it spins freely. Reseat the pump's electrical connector and check wires for chafing.

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: samsung.com.