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Error Code

Kenmore Dishwasher Code C5 Underfilled, Drain Time Too Short

Plain-language guidance for Kenmore code C5 on Dishwasher — symptoms, safe checks, and when to call a technician.

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At a glance

Error code overview

A plain-language snapshot of C5 for Kenmore Dishwasher — confirm the model series before you act.

Daniel Reeves Written by Daniel Reeves Appliance Repair Content Specialist Published October 20, 2026

Content status Verified

Error code C5
Appliance Dishwasher
Quick answer

Code C5 on Kenmore 363 electronic control dishwashers points to too little water in the tub. Check the supply, float and fill valve.

Model compatibility

Kenmore reuses codes across series and model years, so C5 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 this code means

The drain time was too short because the dishwasher is underfilled.

Reading code C5

On a Kenmore 363 electronic control dishwasher, C5 reports a drain time that is too short, meaning the unit is underfilled.

Owner checklist

  1. Confirm that the dishwasher’s water supply is turned fully on.
  2. See whether the overfill float switch is stuck up. If it is, the unit cannot fill as it should.
  3. Unplug the dishwasher, close the water supply, and take the fill line off the inlet water valve to look at it.
  4. Replace the valve if its inlet screen is clogged. Do not simply wash the screen: loose debris can enter the valve body and keep the valve open, which floods the dishwasher.
  5. Secure any loose wiring connections on the valve.
  6. If the valve fails to open when called on, replace it.

Nearby codes

Overfilling is C4, the reverse of this fault. Water temperature that is too low is C6. A dishwasher that does not drain at all is C3.

Repair in the Miami, New York, Houston, Los Angeles and San Diego areas

Help with Kenmore dishwasher repair is offered across the Miami, New York, Houston, Los Angeles and San Diego metro areas at (844) 747-3641. Note the C5 code, your model number and each check you completed.

Source: Kenmore 363 electronic control model dishwasher error codes

Caution

Safety warning

Important safety warning

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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(844) 747-3641
Phone (844) 747-3641
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