Whirlpool · Dishwasher Moderate

FAE3 — Drying Fan Failure

The control cannot communicate with the vent fan that powers dry on fan-assisted models. Dishes will come out wet.

Keep using it?
Yes, with caution
DIY difficulty
Moderate
Checked against
applianceaid.com ↗ community repair site, not a manufacturer document

How to fix it

  1. Power off and remove the inner door panel.
  2. Locate the vent and fan assembly near the top of the door.
  3. Reseat the harness at the fan motor and verify the fan blade spins freely.
  4. Test the fan motor windings with a meter; replace the vent fan assembly if open-circuit.
  5. Reassemble and run a Heated Dry cycle to verify.

Why it happens

Typical signs: FAE3 (10-3) on display · Dishes wet at end of cycle · Vent fan does not run during dry phase

  • Loose harness at vent fan Connector at the vent assembly in the door has backed off.
  • Failed vent fan motor Fan motor seized or windings open.

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.

  • Whirlpool dishwasher vent fan assembly Common replacement
    Amazon →

Related repair guides

Dishwasher Not Drying Dishes — How to Fix It →

More Whirlpool dishwasher codes

F1E1 F1E1 — Control Module Fault F1E2 F1E2 — Incompatible or Failed Control Board F2 F2 — Water leak detected F3E1 F3E1 — Thermistor/OWI Sensor Open F3E3 F3E3 — OWI Calibration Failure / Bad Check Valve F4E3 F4E3 — Heating Error

All Whirlpool codes → All dishwasher codes →

Frequently asked questions

What does the FAE3 code mean on a Whirlpool dishwasher?

The control cannot communicate with the vent fan that powers dry on fan-assisted models. Dishes will come out wet.

What causes the FAE3 code on a Whirlpool dishwasher?

Loose harness at vent fan: Connector at the vent assembly in the door has backed off. Failed vent fan motor: Fan motor seized or windings open.

Is it safe to keep using a Whirlpool dishwasher with a FAE3 error?

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

How do I fix FAE3 on a Whirlpool dishwasher?

Power off and remove the inner door panel. Locate the vent and fan assembly near the top of the door. Reseat the harness at the fan motor and verify the fan blade spins freely.

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician. How we verify: applianceaid.com — community repair site, not a manufacturer document.