A plain-language snapshot of F6E3 (6-3) for Kenmore Dishwasher — confirm the model series before you act.
Written by
Lena Hart Appliance Repair Content SpecialistPublished October 20, 2026
Content statusVerified
Error codeF6E3 (6-3)
ApplianceDishwasher
Quick answer
F6E3 on a Kenmore dishwasher means suds or air in the water pump; the manual checks suds, loading and fill level.
Model compatibility
Kenmore reuses codes across series and model years, so F6E3 (6-3) may mean something different on another appliance or generation. Confirm this against your model’s documentation and record your full model number before acting.
Plain language
What thiscode means
Suds or air in the water pump.
F6E3 means suds or air have reached the water pump. It applies to Kenmore HE and Elite HE dishwashers with a digital display, the Global HE and the MicroClean HE; display-less models flash 6-3 on the Clean light.
Suds first
Look for sudsy water. With excessive suds, cancel the cycle so the drain pump runs for 3 minutes. If it cannot clear the suds, drain the water by hand or with a wet/dry shop vacuum. Check the detergent dispenser and replace it if damaged. Use only dishwasher detergent, since regular dish soap causes excessive suds.
No suds: check the water level
Low water lets air into the pump. The level should just touch the bottom of the overfill float mushroom. Bowls or containers that flipped over can hold water back, so load items so they stay upright. If none are flipped, a defective water inlet valve could be the cause: unplug the dishwasher, close the water supply valve, remove the supply line and check the valve screen for clogs. A clogged screen means replacing the valve. If the screen is clear and water flows, the valve wiring is checked, and the water inlet valve or electronic control board may need replacing. No flow means a plumber repairs the supply.
Related codes
See F6E2 for inlet valve failure and F6E4 for a float switch that is open.
Los Angeles Kenmore dishwasher repair
Need a hand in Los Angeles? Call (310) 554-8899 about your Kenmore. Keep the model number close, note that the display reads F6E3, and say which checks you completed. More on dishwasher repair is one click away.
Do not attempt repairs involving electrical components, gas, water lines, refrigerant or sealed systems. Unplug the appliance if it is safe to reach the outlet, and leave internal diagnostics to a qualified technician.
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