Mitsubishi Error Code 3: Communication Error

Severity
Warning
Type
led blink count
Where to look
indoor unit led
Estimated repair cost: $100 — $300 (parts + labor)
Warning: Your Mitsubishi HVAC system has a communication error, which may cause it to stop working or function incorrectly. It's safe to operate, but you should schedule a professional repair soon.

LED Blink Pattern

How to Fix Mitsubishi Code 3

  1. Check the batteries in your remote control and replace them if necessary
  2. Ensure that the remote control is within range of the indoor unit and not being obstructed
  3. Try resetting your HVAC system by turning it off and then back on again after a few minutes
  4. If the issue persists, contact a professional HVAC technician for repair

How to Reset Mitsubishi Code 3

  1. Turn off the unit using the remote control or wall controller.
  2. Turn off the circuit breaker for the outdoor and indoor units. Wait 60 seconds.
  3. Restore power at the breaker.
  4. Turn the unit on with the remote control. If the error returns, the fault needs professional diagnosis.

Resetting clears the code from the display but does not fix the underlying fault. If the code returns after reset, proceed to the diagnostic steps above.

What Does Mitsubishi Error Code 3 Mean?

A communication error (error code 3) on your Mitsubishi HVAC system means that the indoor and outdoor units are not communicating properly with each other. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as a faulty communication wire, a problem with the control board, or an issue with the remote control. When this error occurs, your system may not function as intended, and you might notice that it's not heating or cooling your space effectively.

Common Causes

  • Faulty communication wire between the indoor and outdoor units
  • Problem with the control board in either the indoor or outdoor unit
  • Issue with the remote control, such as low batteries or interference
  • Dirty or damaged outdoor unit, causing poor communication with the indoor unit

Diagnostic Steps

If... Check Expected
The outdoor unit's LED is blinking rapidly Measure the voltage between the R and Y terminals on the indoor unit's control board 12-24 V AC
The voltage is within the expected range Inspect the communication wire between the indoor and outdoor units for any damage or disconnection No damage or disconnection

Applicable Mitsubishi Models

Replacement Parts

Part OEM Number Est. Cost Where to Buy
Communication wire
Control board

Related Codes on Same Models

Other codes that affect the same Mitsubishi model families as 3.

Code Description Severity
1 Indoor/Outdoor Mismatch Warning
2 Power Supply Phase Error Warning
4 Inverter Error Warning
5 Outdoor Thermistor Open/Short Warning
6 Indoor Freeze/Overheat Warning
7 Outdoor Freeze/Overheat Warning
E6 Indoor/Outdoor Communication Error Warning
E9 Indoor/Outdoor Communication Fault Warning
P1 Intake Sensor Error Warning
P2 Indoor Pipe Thermistor Error Warning