Hotpoint Washer Error Code 3: Motor Pressure Sensor... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The MCU monitors the motor pressure sensor to determine the water level in the tub. The pressure sensor converts water pressure into an electrical signal. The MCU reads this signal and controls the fill level. Error Code 3 indicates that the MCU is receiving an unexpected signal from the pressure sensor.

Symptoms:

The washer displays Error Code 3. The washer may fill with water but not agitate or spin. The washer may also fail to start.

Possible Causes:

Faulty motor pressure sensor
Wiring harness damage or loose connections
Clogged pressure hose
Defective MCU (Main Control Unit)
Air leak in the pressure sensor system

Solution:

1

Unplug the washer from the 120V AC outlet. Perform Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO).
2

Locate the motor pressure sensor. It's usually near the motor or the bottom of the tub. Consult the parts diagram.
3

Inspect the wiring harness and connectors for damage or corrosion. Use a visual inspection. Repair or replace as needed. A damaged wire can cause a short to ground or an open circuit.
4

Check the pressure hose for clogs or kinks. Disconnect the hose and blow through it to ensure it's clear. A clogged hose will give a false pressure reading.
5

Use a multimeter to test the pressure sensor's resistance. Set your multimeter to ohms. Refer to the service manual for the correct reading. A typical range might be 5-10k ohms but always verify.
6

If the sensor tests bad, replace it with an OEM part. After replacement verify resistance again to ensure the new part is within specified range.
7

If the sensor and wiring are good, the MCU may be faulty. Consider replacing the MCU. This is the least likely and most costly scenario. Verify all other components first.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect the washer from the power supply before performing any repairs. High voltage can cause serious injury or death. Follow Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) procedures.

Prevention:

Regularly inspect the pressure hose for kinks or damage. Avoid overloading the washer, as this can put extra strain on the motor and sensor. Periodically clean the drain pump filter to prevent clogs.

Expert Tip:

To enter service mode on some Hotpoint washers, press and hold the Start/Pause button for 5 seconds, then press the Power button. This allows you to run diagnostic tests and view error codes.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the typical resistance range for a functioning motor pressure sensor on this model?

Refer to the Hotpoint service manual for the specific model number. However, a general range is often between 5k ohms and 10k ohms at room temperature and zero pressure.

•How do I verify that the wiring harness is not damaged internally without visible signs of damage?

Use a multimeter to perform a continuity test on each wire in the harness. Check for shorts to ground by measuring resistance between each wire and the chassis ground. Flex the harness while testing to identify intermittent breaks.

•If the pressure sensor is receiving the correct voltage, what could cause a false reading at the MCU?

A damaged signal wire between the pressure sensor and the MCU could cause a voltage drop or interference, resulting in a false reading. Also, internal damage to the MCU's analog-to-digital converter (ADC) could misinterpret the signal.

Hotpoint Washer Error Code 3: Motor Pressure Sensor Fault Troubleshooting

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the typical resistance range for a functioning motor pressure sensor on this model?

•How do I verify that the wiring harness is not damaged internally without visible signs of damage?

•If the pressure sensor is receiving the correct voltage, what could cause a false reading at the MCU?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: