C6
What code C6 means on a Kenmore dishwashers, what causes it, and which part to check first.
● SEVERITY: HIGH
Kenmore C6 means: Water temperature too low. The documented cause is: Run the hot tap at the kitchen sink for 1 minute and then fill a glass with the hot tap water. Measure the water temperature with an accurate thermometer.
What C6 means
Water temperature too low
The display shows C6 and the machine stops until the fault is cleared.
What the technical documentation says
Causes documented in the technical source published by applianceaid.com
| DOCUMENTED CAUSE OR CHECK |
|---|
| Run the hot tap at the kitchen sink for 1 minute and then fill a glass with the hot tap water |
| Measure the water temperature with an accurate thermometer |
| If the water temperature is less than 120 degrees, adjust the water heater setting |
| Adjust the water temperature setting in small increments to prevent scalding |
| If the supply water temperature is normal, the temperature sensor or electronic control board might have failed |
Replacement parts
Tools you'll need
Before you open anything
Unplug the machine and close the water tap before removing any panel. The heating element and the wash water can stay hot long after the cycle ends.
What to check, in order
From the quickest check to the one that needs a technician.

Find a specialist
TroubleAtlas Pro
TroubleAtlas Certified

What is the TroubleAtlas Score?
Beyond fault codes and specialists, we rate the reliability of appliance brands and models — a transparent score that owes nothing to the manufacturer. The reference to check before you buy or repair.
See all appliance scores →TA YouTube Channel
Frequently asked questions
What does C6 mean on a Kenmore?
Water temperature too low The documented cause is: Run the hot tap at the kitchen sink for 1 minute and then fill a glass with the hot tap water. Measure the water temperature with an accurate thermometer. If the water temperature is less than 120 degrees, adjust the water heater setting. Adjust the water temperature setting in small increments to prevent scalding. If the supply water temperature is normal, the temperature sensor or electronic control board might have failed
Can I fix C6 myself?
It depends on the part involved: Run the hot tap at the kitchen sink for 1 minute and then fill a glass with the hot tap water. Measure the water temperature with an accurate thermometer. If the water temperature is less than 120 degrees, adjust the water heater setting. Adjust the water temperature setting in small increments to prevent scalding. If the supply water temperature is normal, the temperature sensor or electronic control board might have failed Clearing a filter or straightening a hose is within reach of anyone; anything behind a panel means mains electricity and water together — that is a job for a technician.
Does Kenmore use other codes on this appliance?
Yes: we document 13 other codes for Kenmore on this dishwashers. They are listed at the bottom of this page, each with its own meaning.
Does the same code mean the same thing on other brands?
Often not. The same two characters can point to completely different faults depending on the manufacturer — always check the page for your own brand.

