Meiko Dishwasher Error Code 117: Top Wash Arm Blocked or Missing
Message 117 on a Meiko M-iClean U dishwasher means the top washing system is blocked or missing. The upper wash arm cannot spin freely, so the spray no longer reaches the top rack properly. Switch off, make sure the arm moves freely or insert it, clean the magnet, and call us if 117 returns.
Medium: the top rack will not wash properly until the arm turns freely.
- Code
- 117
- Maker
- MEIKO
- Equipment
- Dish machines
- Applies to
- M-iClean U (red/gray messages)
What does MEIKO error code 117 mean?
On Meiko M-iClean U undercounter dishwashers, message 117 means the top washing system is blocked or missing. The upper wash arm cannot spin freely, so the spray no longer reaches the top rack properly. The machine senses the arm's rotation, and when the arm does not turn as expected, it stops and shows the message. The maker's steps are to make sure the arm moves freely, to insert it if it is missing, and to remove dirt and iron particles from the magnet. The sensing relies on that magnet, which is why iron particles matter. Beyond that, the manual lists nozzles clogged by scale or food and an arm sensor that does not detect rotation. A dish or glass that has fallen against the arm is the simplest cause. The display text is 117.
Affected models and control systems
Meiko M-iClean U undercounter dishwashers (red and gray messages), per the operating instructions 9763258, section 9.4.1 Messages. Message 118 covers the bottom wash arm.
Code numbers and their meaning can change between control generations. We match the full model and control before acting on a code.
What you may notice
- Message 117
- Top rack dishes coming out dirty
- Upper arm not spinning
- Arm missing or sitting crooked
Possible causes
Listed in MEIKO's documentation
- Upper wash arm seated and spinning freely
- Dirt or ferrous particles on the arm's magnet
- Nozzles clogged by scale or food
- Arm sensor that does not detect rotation
Other likely causes — what usually sits behind error code 117 on this control. A technician confirms which one it is before any part is replaced.
- A rack tilted so the arm hits a glass on every turn
- Metal swarf from cutlery building on the magnet
- Scale from untreated water blocking the nozzle ends
Safe checks before calling for service
- Switch off the machine and let it cool.
- Make sure the wash arm system can move freely, and insert it if it is missing.
- Remove dirt and ferrous metal particles from the magnet.
- Wear gloves, since the water holds detergent. If 117 returns, call us.
How a technician diagnoses error code 117
- Read the message and inspect the upper arm and its seating.
- Check the magnet and clean it.
- Clear nozzles and check for scale.
- Test the arm sensor response as the arm is turned by hand.
- Replace the sensor or arm after the test.
- The arm sensor sits near wiring and water.
- Scale in nozzles may need descaling with the right products.
- Missing spray reduces cleaning and hygiene, so the cause should be repaired.
How error code 117 differs from similar codes
Message 117 is the top wash arm, and 118 is the bottom wash arm.
Technical reference
- Document
- M-iClean U Original operating instructions 9763258 (update 2026-06), 9.4.1 Messages p.43-45
- Edition
- 9763258 / Valid from: 2018-09 / Update: 2026-06
- Models / control
- M-iClean U (red/gray messages)
- Section
- 9.4.1 Messages, printed pp. 43-45 of 70 (PDF pp. 43-45)
- Checked
- October 2026
We use the maker's document to read the code and do not reproduce it. Always confirm the complete model and control before applying these steps.
Related MEIKO dish machine error codes
Can I keep washing with 117?
Dishes on the top rack may not get cleaned. Fix the arm first.
Will 117 clear by itself?
Yes, once the arm turns freely and the magnet is clean.
Why does iron matter?
The manual says to remove iron particles from the magnet, which the machine uses to sense the arm.
Need help with MEIKO error code 117?
A technician confirms the cause on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.