How to Fix Samsung Dishwasher OE Error Code

A Samsung dishwasher error code OE means the dishwasher is detecting that there is too much water in the dishwasher. The cause of the error code is most often a blockage, either in the hose that connects to the overflow sensor or in the case break, sump filter, or drain pump. If there is not a blockage, the drain pump or control board may have failed electrically and will need to be tested with a multimeter.

Read on to resolve the Samsung dishwasher OE error code and get your dishwasher working again.

This guide applies to most Samsung dishwasher models, such as:

DB3710DB

DB3710DW

DB5710DT

DMR57LFBXAA

DMR57LFS

DMR57LFSXAA

DMR57LFWXAA

DMR77LHS

DMR78AHS

DMT300RFB

DMT300RFS

DMT300RFW

DMT400RHS

DMT800RHS

DMT800RHS/XAA

DW7933LRASR

DW80F600UTS/AA-0000

DW80F600UTS/AA-0001

DW80F800UWS/AA-0001

DW80J3020US/AA-0000

DW80K5050US/AA-0000

1. Reset the Dishwasher

Occasionally, a dishwasher error code is caused by a control board glitch. If a glitch is responsible for the error code, disconnecting the power to the dishwasher for five minutes will resolve the error code. Once you reconnect the power to the dishwasher, the OE error code should be gone. If the error code returns, it means you likely have a blockage or faulty component that will need to be checked.

2. Clear the Filter and Sump

If a reset has not worked, the bottom of the dishwasher (the sump), including the filter, should be checked for debris restricting the dishwasher’s ability to drain. Note that the type of filter can vary depending on the model, and some older dishwashers may not have a removable filter.

Follow these steps to check the filter and sump:

1. Open the dishwasher door and remove the dish racks so that you can access the bottom of the dishwasher.
2. Clean out the sump, removing food debris that may be causing a blockage.
3. Remove the filter from the dishwasher. On many Samsung models, there is a handle that you need to turn counterclockwise to release the filter compartment. The filter is typically made up of two parts: a top filter with a handle and a flat microfilter underneath.
4. Clean the filter with soap and water. Baking soda or white vinegar can be applied to clean stubborn debris.
5. Return the filter to the dishwasher.

3. Check the Drain Hose

A blocked or kinked drain hose may be causing water to stagnate in the dishwasher and cause the OE error code. Check that your drain hose is not kinked and that it is installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions (i.e., not too low to the ground).

The drain hose can be cleared by either using a store-bought dishwasher cleaner or two cups of white vinegar. If you decide to use vinegar, pour two cups of white vinegar into a dishwasher-safe bowl and run a wash cycle with the dishwasher empty of other dishes.

Running a wash cycle with a dishwasher cleaner solution should be enough to dislodge the clog and clear the hose. However, to more thoroughly check and clear the drain hose, disconnect the hose from the dishwasher and use a drain snake tool to unblock it. Note, you may want to check the internal drain hose, which is connected to the drain pump inside the dishwasher (see step 5 for access instructions).

4. Check the Overflow Sensor and Case Break

The case break, sometimes called the water panel, is a plastic panel that houses the overflow sensor or flow meter. The case break is usually located on the left side of the dishwasher. Access to the case break requires removing the side access panel on the left side of the dishwasher. In most cases, this will mean disconnecting the water supply line, drain hose, and junction box wiring so that you can move the dishwasher to access the side of it.

Follow these steps to check the overflow sensor and case break:

1. Disconnect the power to the dishwasher, and turn off the water.
2. Remove the lower dish rack from the dishwasher.
3. Locate the water panel grill on the inside wall of the dishwasher.
4. Use needle-nose pliers to turn the grill counterclockwise and remove it from the dishwasher. Be careful not to damage the gasket behind it and make sure the gasket has not ripped.
5. Move the dishwasher so that you can access the outer left side of the dishwasher.
6. Use a screwdriver to remove the side access panel.
7. Pull the case break away from the dishwasher to expose the hoses and overflow sensor.
8. Use pliers to release the clamps around the hoses.
9. Disconnect the wire connectors to remove the case break panel.
10. Examine the case break for blockages and remove any debris.
11. Locate the smaller hose that connects the case break with the sump. Use compressed air or blow through the hose to clear it of any blockages. If the hose is blocked and you clear it, the OE error code will likely be resolved.
12. If the case break is damaged, replace the part with a new one. Tip: Save the gasket from the first case break, as new case breaks often do not come with a replacement gasket.

5. Check the Drain Pump

If the above solutions have failed to fix the issue, the dishwasher’s drain pump should be checked for faults. Pump motors can fail either mechanically or electrically. A mechanical fault is usually caused by a foreign item getting stuck in the drain pump.

If the drain pump and connecting hoses are not clogged, the pump may have failed electrically. The drain pump will need to be tested with a multimeter for continuity (a continuous electrical path) to determine if it has failed and needs to be replaced.

If running a resistance test, most working drain pumps should show a reading of around 200 ohms. If the pump fails the resistance test and dOEs not have continuity, it will need to be replaced.

Follow these steps to check the drain pump:

1. Disconnect the power and water to the dishwasher.
2. Depending on the model, the drain pump can be accessed by either removing the bottom-front kick plate or by putting the dishwasher on its back and unscrewing the access panel underneath the dishwasher.
3. Move the dishwasher to access and remove the relevant access panel.
4. Detach the wiring harness.
5. Locate the drain pump and use a screwdriver to lift up the locking tab that secures it.
6. Disconnect the wires and hoses that are connected to the pump.
7. Rotate the drain pump to detach it from the dishwasher.
8. Inspect the pump and connecting hoses for a blockage.
9. Test the drain pump with a multimeter.
10. Replace a defective drain pump.

If you have followed the steps above and the OE error code remains, the control board may have a fault that is falsely causing the OE error code. It is recommended that only a trained professional diagnose a control board fault.