Samsung Washer CL Code: Child Lock Activated
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What Error Code CL Means
Your Samsung washer displays CL when the child lock feature is activated. This is not an error code. Child lock is a parental safety feature that disables all buttons except Power. The washer ignores all button presses and will not start a cycle while CL is active. The door also remains locked on front-load models. You simply need to deactivate the child lock to use the washer normally.
Common Causes
Child lock was activated accidentally
The child lock activates by pressing and holding a specific button combination for 3 seconds. It is easy to trigger accidentally when loading clothes or leaning against the control panel.
Previous user activated child lock
If multiple people use the washer, someone activated child lock and did not turn it off. The setting persists through power cycles on most Samsung models.
Child lock set intentionally and forgotten
You or a family member activated child lock to prevent children from starting the washer and forgot about it.
How to Fix It
- 1
Identify the child lock button on your model
Look at the control panel for a button labeled with a padlock icon, a smiley face icon, or the text "Child Lock." On many Samsung models, the child lock function is assigned to the Temp and Rinse buttons pressed simultaneously. On other models, it is the Delay End and Soil Level buttons. Check the label printed on the panel below or above the buttons.
- 2
Deactivate child lock (most Samsung front-loaders)
Press and hold the Temp and Rinse buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds. The CL indicator on the display turns off, and the washer beeps to confirm deactivation. All buttons return to normal operation.
- 3
Deactivate child lock (Samsung top-loaders)
On top-load models, press and hold the Delay End and Soil Level buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds. Some newer top-load models use a single dedicated Child Lock button -- press and hold it for 3 seconds. The CL display turns off.
- 4
Check your owner's manual for model-specific instructions
If the above combinations do not work, look up your model number on Samsung's support site or check the owner's manual. The model number is on a sticker inside the door frame. Different Samsung model series assign child lock to different button combinations.
- 5
Power cycle if child lock is stuck
In rare cases, the child lock does not respond to the button combination. Unplug the washer from the wall outlet for 5 minutes. Plug it back in and immediately try the child lock deactivation button combination before the washer finishes its startup sequence.
When to Call a Professional
You should not need a technician for the CL code. It is a feature, not a malfunction. If the child lock does not deactivate with any button combination and persists after a power cycle, the control panel board is stuck in a fault state. In that case, call TruePro at 877-378-3111. The $59 diagnostic fee is credited toward the repair, and all work carries a 90-day warranty on parts and labor. Same-day service is often available in LA County, Orange County, and Ventura County.
Estimated Repair Cost
| Option | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| DIY (parts only) | $0 |
| Professional repair | $150 - $300 |
Deactivating child lock costs nothing. If the control panel board is faulty and child lock is stuck, professional repair includes the $59 diagnostic credit, a new control panel board ($60-150), and labor. First-time customers save 15% on labor with code NEW15.
See full washer repair cost breakdown βSamsung Washer CL β FAQ
Related Samsung Error Codes
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