Hobart Legacy+ Mixer Error Er3: CPU Error in the Motor Drive

What does Hobart error code Er3 mean?

The motor drive contains a processor that runs its own program. If that processor stops working normally, the drive reports a CPU error, and the SmartTimer display shows Er3. The mixer will not run until power is cycled and the cause is corrected. Because a power event just before the code can upset the processor, one Er3 followed by normal operation may need no repair at all. An Er3 that comes back points to the drive itself. Supply voltage and connection quality at the drive are checked next, since a poor connection can disturb the processor in the same way. A drive that resets itself after a code may be hiding a failing board, which is why the occurrence log you keep is useful: how often the code appears, what the mixer was doing, and whether any lights flickered. The display gives no detail beyond the CPU error. The text on the display is Er3, and it applies to the HL800 and HL1400.

Affected models and control systems

Hobart Legacy+ HL800 and HL1400 mixers with the motor drive and SmartTimer display. Other generations of Hobart mixers use different codes.

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

• Er3 on the SmartTimer display
• Mixer stops and will not restart
• Code returning at random points in a batch

Possible causes

Listed in Hobart's documentation

• Power event just before the code
• Supply voltage and connection quality at the drive
• Drive board, if the code repeats

Other likely causes — what usually sits behind error code Er3 on this control. A technician confirms which one it is before any part is replaced.

• Electrical noise from a nearby large motor that upsets the processor
• A drive that overheated in a closed, warm base and reset itself

Safe checks before calling for service

How a technician diagnoses error code Er3

1. Read Er3 and review the notes on when it appears.
2. Check the supply voltage and connections at the disconnect and drive input.
3. Look for evidence of heat or contamination around the drive.
4. Log whether the code correlates with load or start-up.
5. Cycle power and run a batch to see if Er3 repeats.
6. Replace the drive if Er3 returns with a verified supply.

Technical reference

Document

Large Capacity Mixers Customer Maintenance Manual F48065 (10-22), Diagnostic Error Codes

Maker documentation

Hobart owner support

Edition

F48065

Models / control

Legacy+ HL800 / HL1400 motor drive + SmartTimer display

Section

Diagnostic Error Codes HL800 & HL1400, PDF pp. 9-11

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.