Home > Error Codes > Samsung Washer > 8C
Samsung Washer Error Code 8C
The vibration (MEMS) sensor is reporting a fault.
Also shown as: 8E, 8C2 Last verified: 2026-10-30
Most likely causes, in order
| Cause | How common |
|---|---|
| A washer that is not level, so vibration readings go out of range | Most common |
| Shipping bolts still fitted on a new machine | Common on new installs |
| An overloaded or severely unbalanced drum | Common |
| A failed vibration (MEMS) sensor | Less common — service job |
What to try, easiest first
- Check the washer is level and all four feet sit firmly on the floor.
- If the machine is new, confirm the shipping bolts at the back were removed — the manual shows their positions.
- Reduce the load and spread it evenly, then restart.
- If the code returns on a level machine with a normal load, the sensor itself needs checking.
Reset procedure
Soft reset (first try): press Power to switch the washer off, wait about 2–3 minutes, switch it back on and restart the cycle. If the code was a one-off sensor glitch, it often clears here.
Hard reset: switch the washer off, unplug it from the wall outlet (or switch its breaker off) for 2–3 minutes, plug it back in and restart. Never open a panel or touch wiring while it is plugged in.
When to call a technician
Call a technician if the code returns on a level machine with a normal load, or the washer shakes violently even when empty.
Difficulty, time and cost
| Difficulty | Easy for checks; service job if the sensor has failed |
|---|---|
| Typical DIY time | 10–20 minutes for checks (editorial estimate, not a quoted time) |
| Part / job cost | $65–$100 for a professional diagnostic visit. Diagnostic range from the Albany repair price survey; the sensor part itself is model-specific, so get a quote with your model number. Prices vary by model and area — treat every figure as an estimate, not a quote. |
Model notes and limits
8C is the current MEMS display; older models show 8E. This sensor exists to protect the machine from violent shaking, so the code is often a levelling or load problem wearing a sensor label.
Front-load and top-load models, AddWash/FlexWash models, and US versus UK displays can show the same fault differently. Always confirm against the manual for your exact model number (on the label inside the door or lid, or on the back of the washer) before ordering a part.
Related codes
Frequently asked questions
What is a MEMS sensor?
It is a tiny vibration sensor that tells the washer how much the drum is shaking. If shaking goes beyond its safe range, the washer stops and reports this code.
My washer shakes only on spin. Is that this code?
Shaking on spin with this code usually means levelling, load balance or shipping bolts — check those three before assuming the sensor failed.
Can I keep using the washer by using low spin?
Low spin hides the warning but does not fix the cause. A washer shaking hard enough to trip this sensor can damage itself and walk across the floor.
Sources
- North London Appliance Repairs — Samsung washing machine error codes — https://www.northlondonappliancerepairs.co.uk/discussions/washing-machine-help-forum/samsung-washing-machine-error-codes.html?print=1&tmpl=component (checked 2026-10-30)
- WashingCodes — Samsung top-load washer error codes — https://washingcodes.com/samsung-wa52j8060a-wa52j8700a-top-load-washer-with-activewash-error-codes/amp/ (checked 2026-10-30)
- Samsung WA50M7450AW user manual — Troubleshooting codes (via ManualsLib) — https://www.manualslib.com/manual/2698765/Samsung-Wa50m7450aw-A4.html?page=36 (checked 2026-10-30)