What should I do when the control panel buttons are not operating properly?

Last Update date : Sep 30. 2020

For safety reasons, Samsung washing machines have a Child lock feature to lock the door and buttons. The instructions provided below will help you to solve the display and the button issues.

Check the control panel display

Generally, it is not possible to change any of the options after the washing machines starts operating. If you need to change the options, stopping the product by pressing the Power/Pause button and set the options again.

If there are any foreign substances or moisture on the button, it is not easy for detect the button to detect being pressed. Besides, if the child lock function is enabled, all other buttons will not work except the power button. In addition, this function will remain enabled after the power has turned off and on again. 

cl code on the display

Note:  

  • The actual design of the control panel may differ from your model.
  • This image is just a sample in English, it is available in the language of your country.
  • Ensure the machine is plugged in and lit on the display of the control panel is on. 
  • Check the display panel and completely remove any foreign substances or moisture on the buttons.

How to check the display

Step 1. Unplug the washing machine for a few minutes.

Step 2. Plug it back in and then press the power button.

Step 3. Tap any button once. If it responds, watch for any information code that is displayed. Otherwise, repeat steps 1 and 2.

Step 4. Press the Program button for 3 seconds or until the lights stop flashing.

Once the Child Lock function has activated, it continues working even if the power is turned off. Therefore, you need to make sure to deactivate it or cancel the function to start the laundry. When the Child Lock function is on, the Child lock indicator blinks with the information code (CL, dC) on the display panel. 

How to deactivate the Child Lock (different per model)

Front loader

  • To deactivate (Temporarily function On) the Child Lock: Press and hold (A) and (B) simultaneously for 3 seconds. 
  • To cancel the Child Lock: Press and hold (A) and (B) simulaneously for 3 seconds to deactivate it, and then press and hold the buttons again for 3 seconds. The door unlocks and the Child Lock indicator turns off completely. 
press temp and rinse button

Note:

  • The actual design of the control panel may differ from your model.
  • This image is just a sample in English, it is available in the language of your country.

Top loader

  • To cancel the Child Lock: Press and hold both (A) and (B) button simultaneously for approximately 3 seconds.

Tips for control the buttons with the Child lock enabled (Top loader only)

  • You can still manipulate the control panel while the door is closed. If you open the door and an information code (CL, dC) appears with an alarm. The machine will drain after 30 seconds to prevent infant or child accidents such as drowning.
  • The Child Lock only becomes active when the water supply is complete. 
  • If the door is left open for 30 seconds with the tub containing water, the machine drains the water with the CL code and cannot be stopped. 
  • To add detergent or more laundry in the tub, or to change the cycle settings, you must first deactivate the Child Lock. 
press water level and power wash

Note:

  • If you open the door with the Child Lock enabled, the machine starts forced draining to prevent accidents such as drowning.
  • The actual design of the control panel may differ from your model.
  • This image is just a sample in English, it is available in the language of your country.

Thank you for your feedback!