Samsung Washer 3C / 3E Error Code: Motor Hall Sensor (#DC31-00098A)
Quick Answer: The 3C (or 3E on older models) error code on a Samsung washing machine indicates a drive motor tachometer or Hall Sensor fault. On direct-drive models, replacing the $16 Rotor Position Hall Sensor (#DC31-00098A) on the back motor stator resolves the issue.
⚠️ Don't Junk Your Washer Over a 3C/3E Motor Code: Just like LG's LE error, Samsung's 3C/3E rarely means the heavy copper motor is dead—it is almost always the small white plastic Hall Sensor (#DC31-00098A) or a loose 3-pin wire plug at the back of the tub!
#1 Most Common Fix: Samsung Motor Rotor Position Hall Sensor
Official OEM Part Number: #DC31-00098A
⏱️ Install Time: 25 Minutes | 💰 Avg Cost: $14.99 – $22.00
Step 1: Free 2-Minute Reset & Test
- Unplug the Samsung washer from the wall for 5 minutes to reset the inverter motor board.
- Try turning the inner stainless steel drum by hand when empty: if it turns smoothly, the bearings are fine.
- Remove the rear metal service cover, unbolt the center rotor nut, and inspect the white Hall Sensor (#DC31-00098A) clipped to the stator.
Step 2: Symptom & Part Number Lookup Table
| Symptom | Required OEM Part | Difficulty & Cost | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drum twitches slightly, refuses to agitate or spin, and displays 3C, 3E, or 3E2 Cause: Failed Motor Hall Effect Speed Sensor | Samsung OEM Motor Hall Sensor#DC31-00098A | Easy DIY (25 min via back panel) Est: $16.99 | Check Price on Amazon → |
| Older belt-driven Samsung washer stops spinning and flashes 3E Cause: Worn out Carbon Motor Brushes | Samsung Drive Motor Carbon Brush Set#DC61-02116A | Moderate DIY (30 min) Est: $15.50 | Check Price on Amazon → |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 3E, 3E1, 3E2, and 3C on a Samsung washer?
All four codes point to the drive motor circuit: 3C is the newer naming for 3E, 3E1 indicates motor overload from a heavy load, and 3E2 points directly to a missing signal from the Hall Sensor (#DC31-00098A).