Meiko Dishwasher Error Code 118: Bottom Wash Arm Blocked or Missing
Message 118 on a Meiko M-iClean U dishwasher means the bottom wash system is blocked or missing. The lower wash arm cannot turn freely, so the spray under the rack is weak. Switch off, make sure the arm moves freely or insert it, clean the magnet, and call us if 118 returns.
Medium: the lower spray is weak until the arm turns freely.
- Code
- 118
- Maker
- MEIKO
- Equipment
- Dish machines
- Applies to
- M-iClean U (red/gray messages)
What does MEIKO error code 118 mean?
On Meiko M-iClean U undercounter dishwashers, message 118 means the bottom wash system is blocked or missing. The lower wash arm cannot turn freely, so the spray under the rack is weak. The lower arm does most of the work on dishes standing in the bottom of the rack, so a stuck arm shows quickly in the wash results. The control senses rotation through a magnet and sensor, and when the arm fails to turn, it posts 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 manual also lists nozzles clogged with scale or food, and an arm sensor or magnet reading that is off. A fork or a tipped dish is the usual cause. The display text is 118.
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 117 covers the top 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 118
- Weak spray under the rack
- Lower arm not spinning
- Dishes at the bottom of the rack still dirty
Possible causes
Listed in MEIKO's documentation
- Lower wash arm seated and spinning freely
- Dirt or ferrous particles on the magnet
- Nozzles clogged with scale or food
- Arm sensor or magnet reading
Other likely causes — what usually sits behind error code 118 on this control. A technician confirms which one it is before any part is replaced.
- A utensil that fell through the rack and jammed the arm
- An arm that was refitted after cleaning without clicking into place
- Food packed into the arm's end caps
Safe checks before calling for service
- Switch off the machine and let it cool.
- Make sure the bottom wash arm moves 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 118 returns, call us.
How a technician diagnoses error code 118
- Read the message and inspect the lower arm and its seating.
- Check the magnet for iron particles and clean it.
- Clear nozzles and arm end caps.
- Check the sensor response as the arm is turned by hand.
- Replace the sensor or arm only after the test.
- The sensor reads rotation through wiring behind the tank.
- Descaling nozzles requires the proper product and rinsing.
- A weak lower spray can leave unsanitary dishes, so repair should not wait.
How error code 118 differs from similar codes
Message 118 is the lower arm, the bottom counterpart of 117.
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 118?
The bottom of the rack will be poorly cleaned. Fix the arm before the next load.
Will 118 clear by itself?
Yes, once the arm moves freely and the magnet is clean.
Is 118 the same as 117?
No. 117 is the top arm, 118 the bottom.
Need help with MEIKO error code 118?
A technician confirms the cause on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.