FixByModel
F6E3

KitchenAid F6E3: Excessive suds detected

F6E3 means the dishwasher sensed too many suds, which can stop it filling or running properly. It is almost always caused by the wrong detergent or too much of it.

DIY fix

By the FixByModel editorial team · Verified 2026-09 · Researched against manufacturer support & repair references (below)

Most likely causes

  1. Using laundry, hand, or dish soap instead of dishwasher detergent
  2. Too much dishwasher detergent per load
  3. Rinse-aid cap left off or the dispenser overfilled
Before you start — unplug the appliance and turn off the water supply. You'll be working near water and electrical parts, and drained water can be hot. If a step involves the pump, wiring, or opening the cabinet and you're unsure, stop and call a qualified technician.

Step-by-step fix

1Scoop out sudsUse a plastic cup to remove as much foam as possible from the bottom of the tub.
2Suppress remaining foamRemove the dishes, add a couple tablespoons of cooking oil, and run a full cycle with no detergent.
3Rinse againRun another complete cycle with detergent but no dishes to flush out any residue.
4Switch detergentGoing forward, use only dishwasher-specific detergent in the correct amount.

Still showing F6E3?

If you’ve worked through every step and F6E3 keeps returning, an internal part likely needs testing and replacement. That’s a job for a qualified appliance technician, who can measure the suspect part against the service-manual spec before replacing it.

Which models this applies to

KitchenAid dishwashers. KitchenAid dishwashers on the Whirlpool F#E# control platform (2010s-present)

FAQ

What does KitchenAid F6E3 mean?

Excessive suds detected. F6E3 means the dishwasher sensed too many suds, which can stop it filling or running properly. It is almost always caused by the wrong detergent or too much of it.

What causes KitchenAid F6E3?

The most likely cause is using laundry, hand, or dish soap instead of dishwasher detergent. Other causes include Too much dishwasher detergent per load; Rinse-aid cap left off or the dispenser overfilled.

Can I fix KitchenAid F6E3 myself?

Usually yes. Start by working through the steps above, beginning with: use a plastic cup to remove as much foam as possible from the bottom of the tub.