GE Washer - HW-3 Error Code
The motor control detected a software problem.
Meaning
The motor control detected a software problem.
This HydroWave LED code indicates that the motor control board has encountered a software or logic fault. GE classifies this as an internal firmware issue that prevents normal operation.
Symptoms
Causes
Step-by-Step Fixes
- Power cycle the washer.
- Verify stable household voltage.
- Replace motor control board if issue persists.
Safety Notes
- Disconnect power before accessing electronics.
Applicable Models
Show Models
- GE HydroWave top-load washers
Related Pages
Other GE Washer Error Codes
Show All Error Codes
- GE Washer AD0 Error Code
- GE Washer AD1 Error Code
- GE Washer AD2 Error Code
- GE Washer AD3 Error Code
- GE Washer AD4 Error Code
- GE Washer AP Code
- GE Washer E11 Error Code
- GE Washer E20 Error Code
- GE Washer E21 Error Code
- GE Washer E22 Error Code
- GE Washer E23 Error Code
- GE Washer E31 Error Code
- GE Washer E38 Error Code
- GE Washer E39 Error Code
- GE Washer E42 Error Code
- GE Washer E45 Error Code
- GE Washer E46 Error Code
- GE Washer E47 Error Code
- GE Washer E48 Error Code
- GE Washer E4A Error Code
- GE Washer E4B Error Code
- GE Washer E4C Error Code
- GE Washer E50 Error Code
- GE Washer E52 Error Code
- GE Washer E54 Error Code
- GE Washer E56 Error Code
- GE Washer E57 Error Code
- GE Washer E58 Error Code
- GE Washer E60 Error Code
- GE Washer E61 Error Code
- GE Washer E63 Error Code
- GE Washer E64 Error Code
- GE Washer E65 Error Code
- GE Washer E66 Error Code
- GE Washer E67 Error Code
- GE Washer E70 Error Code
- GE Washer E71 Error Code
- GE Washer E85 Error Code
- GE Washer FAIL Code
- GE Washer HydroWave 1 Flash — Tub Taking Too Long to Stop
- GE Washer HydroWave 10 Flashes — No Communication With Control Board
- GE Washer HydroWave 2 Flashes — Belt Slipping
- GE Washer HydroWave 4 Flashes — Mode Shifter Failure
- GE Washer HydroWave 5 Flashes — Motor Problem
- GE Washer HydroWave 6 Flashes — Motor Locked
- GE Washer HydroWave 7 Flashes — Lid Switch Stuck Closed
- GE Washer HydroWave 8 Flashes — Motor Overheated
- GE Washer HydroWave 9 Flashes — Brake Resistor Failed
- GE Washer LED Flash Code 1 — Lid Lock Will Not Unlock
- GE Washer LED Flash Code 2 — Lid Lock Will Not Lock
- GE Washer LED Flash Code 3 — Pressure Sensor Fault
- GE Washer LED Flash Code 4 — Drain Pump Fault
- GE Washer LED Flash Code 5 — Motor Fault
- GE Washer NOC Code
- GE Washer Sd Error Code
- GE Washer SL‑1 Status Light Code — Lid Lock Fault
- GE Washer SL‑10 Status Light Code — Fill Timeout
- GE Washer SL‑2 Status Light Code — Pressure Sensor Fault
- GE Washer SL‑3 Status Light Code — Drain Pump Fault
- GE Washer SL‑4 Status Light Code — Motor Fault
- GE Washer SL‑5 Status Light Code — Shifter Fault
- GE Washer SL‑6 Status Light Code — Suspension or Balance Fault
- GE Washer SL‑7 Status Light Code — Thermistor Fault
- GE Washer SL‑8 Status Light Code — Control Board Fault
- GE Washer SL‑9 Status Light Code — Water Valve Fault
- GE Washer SM‑1 — Enter Service Mode
- GE Washer SM‑2 — Error Code Retrieval
- GE Washer UE Error Code
- GE Washer UL Error Code
- GE Washer UPD Code
- GE Washer W1 Error Code
- GE Washer W2 Error Code
- GE Washer W3 Error Code
- GE Washer W4 Error Code
Model-Specific Notes
Often appears after brownouts or lightning storms.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only. Repairs involve electrical, mechanical, and water-related risks. Always follow manufacturer instructions and consider contacting a qualified technician for diagnosis or repair.