Tips to fix error code 4C on a Samsung dishwasher

Is your Samsung dishwasher displaying error code 4C? Don’t worry, this is a problem that you can fix yourself without the need for a costly service call and we’re here to help you do it!

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your appliance while you’re troubleshooting, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

The error code information provided in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. The disassembly information is based on models starting with DW80R. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

Possible causes  

When error code 4C appears on a Samsung dishwasher, it indicates that the machine is not receiving enough water. This can be due to a malfunction, a blocked hose, a broken water inlet valve, or a faulty water inlet valve.

One of the primary causes behind the error code is a blocked supply hose or filter. Over time, debris, mineral deposits, and other foreign material can accumulate in water hoses. Debris impedes water flow into the appliance. When your dishwasher cannot receive an adequate amount of water within a certain period from starting its cycle, it will trigger this code as a warning signal.

Another potential culprit for the 4C error code is a faulty component within your dishwasher’s system. For example, if either the water inlet valve or level sensor malfunctions, it can result in improper regulation of incoming water pressure.  thus leading to an inadequate amount being delivered inside your dishwasher during operation. On rare occasions, there could be issues with the control board. Additionally, when troubleshooting, check for a kinked water supply hose or a potentially faulty water supply hose.

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of injury from electric shock.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with bare wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check your user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions for your part or appliance. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any heating parts to cool down before working on it. 
• Take pictures or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting to prevent any problems with reassembly.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.

Troubleshooting steps

Check the water supply valve and screens

1. Locate the water valve behind the dishwasher or under the sink, depending on your setup.
2. Check if the water supply valve is in the open position by turning it counterclockwise until it stops; this ensures maximum water flow to your dishwasher.
3. Inspect the valve for any signs of damage or corrosion that could obstruct its function.
4. If you live in a cold climate, examine the valve for any signs of freezing; frozen pipes can impede water flow.
5. If you find any issues with your water supply valve, such as being damaged or corroded, replace it to restore the water supply.
6. Disconnect the water supply hose from the inlet valve.
7. Look for a small mesh filter screen inside the valve where the hose attached.
8. Check if there are any visible signs of blockages or debris on the filter.
9. If it is a clogged mesh filter, remove any debris by gently brushing or wiping it away.
10. Rinse the filter with running water until all debris is removed.
11. Reattach and tighten the water supply hose securely back into place. Make sure there are no obstructions or damage to the supply hose.

Test the water inlet valve

1. Unplug the dishwasher from the power source and turn off the water supply.
2. Locate the water inlet valve, which is typically located at the bottom rear of the dishwasher.
3. Disconnect the wiring connector from the water inlet valve. This will have two or more wires connected to it.
4. Set your multimeter to the ohms (Ω) setting.
5. Touch the multimeter probes to the two terminals on the water inlet valve. The resistance should be between 890-1089 ohms. If the reading is outside this range, the water inlet valve needs to be replaced.

If the water inlet valve tests within the normal range of 890-1089 ohms, proceed to test the water valve relay on the main control board.

Test the control board voltage

LIVE VOLTAGE WARNING: For this test, the appliance needs to be plugged in and powered on. Please be very careful to protect yourself from electric shock, which has the potential to cause serious injuries. Don’t ever test live voltage if you’re uncomfortable using a multimeter.

1. Identify the CN401 and CN101 connectors on the main control board.
2. Set your multimeter to the AC voltage (V~) setting.
3. Measure the voltage between the blue wire of the CN401 connector and the red wire of the CN101 connector. The voltage should be between 110-120V AC.

If the voltage at the control board is within the expected range, the water valve relay is functioning properly. If the voltage is outside the expected range, there may be an issue with the control board or the wiring between the water inlet valve and the control board.

Additional information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your Samsung dishwasher working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos. 

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more.

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