Home Improvement Skills & Specialties Electrical Appliances

List of Samsung Front-Load Washer Error Codes

A quick reference to help you identify and repair the problem

By
Mary Marlowe Leverette
Mary Marlowe Leverette 2018
Mary Marlowe Leverette

Mary Marlowe Leverette is one of the industry's most highly-regarded housekeeping and fabric care experts, sharing her knowledge on efficient housekeeping, laundry, and textile conservation. She is also a Master Gardener with over 40+ years of experience and 20+ years of writing experience. Mary is also a member of The Spruce Gardening and Plant Care Review Board.

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Updated on 04/14/22
Common Samsung Front-Load Washer Error Codes

The Spruce / Ellen Lindner

Flashing numbers and letters mean something has gone wrong with your Samsung front-load washer. But what? It could be something simple that you're able to fix yourself to prevent a service call. Or it could be serious enough that you should step away from the washer and call in a professional.

If you're having trouble with your Samsung front-load washing machine, this chart can help you to decipher the error codes and make an informed decision. 

Samsung Front-Load Washer Error Codes

Fault Code Washer Problem Repair Steps
LO or FL   Door lock error If the door fails to unlock after seven tries once the washer cycle is complete, you'll get the LO or FL code. Begin by unplugging the washer, and force open the door. Check the wiring connections to the door lock/switch, and tighten if needed.

Forcing the door open might damage the door lock/switch, which is often made of plastic. However, it is simple to replace and much less expensive than calling a technician.
ds Door is not locked If the washer won't start, the ds code might appear, signaling that the washer door is open and the lock is malfunctioning. Use the diagnostic test mode to check the door lock/switch assembly. If that shows the lock is defective, replace it.
dc Unbalanced load The dc code means the load has been detected as unbalanced during the final spin. Cancel the cycle, or just let it end. Redistribute the load, and respin.

If this doesn't solve the problem, there might be damage to the suspension system. Check those areas for any wear and tear, including metal or plastic shavings on the floor of the washer interior.
Sud (F70) Too many suds Using a regular detergent or even too much high-efficiency detergent can produce excessive suds. This extends the length of the cycle, leaves your clothes sticky and soiled from redeposited dirt, and can make your  washer smell.

Allow the suds to settle, and move to the spin cycle. Rewash the clothes using no detergent, and then clean your washer.
lE Water level sensor failure First, unplug the washer, and check the wire harness connections between the water level sensor and the main control board. If the IE code still appears after plugging the washer back in, the water level pressure sensor should be replaced.
nF Water fill problem If the washer takes 40 minutes or more to fill or if the water level doesn't change after six minutes, the nF code will appear. Check that the water supply faucets behind the washer are fully open and kink-free.

The lines can also freeze if the washer is exposed to low temperatures. The code might also appear if the water inlet fill valves are defective and need replacement.
LE Low water level during cycles Water level drops can be caused by leaks in the washer tub or an improperly installed drain line, which can siphon water out of the washer. Reinstall the drain line, and try filling again.
OE Overflow or too high water levels A washer that is overfilled is usually caused by water inlet valves that are not shutting off the water flow properly. Replace the water inlet valve assembly.
nF1 Hot and cold water lines are reversed Connect the hot and cold water fill hoses correctly on the back of the washer.
tE Water temperature is either too high or too low Run the diagnostic test mode to check the water temperature that the control board is sensing. If the actual temperature is significantly different, the temperature sensor or thermistor should be replaced.
nd Water will not drain If the washer fails to drain within 15 minutes, check the washer drain filter and drain hose for a clog or restriction. If the drain pump is defective or damaged, replace it.
E2 Stuck key on control board Try to free the key by gentle force. If you can't free the key, replace the user interface control board (also called the sub-PCB control board).
3E No signal from the drive motor tachometer Unplug the washer. Check the wire harness connections on the drive motor and the electronic control board. If the wiring connections are sound, the drive motor or the tachometer usually needs to be replaced.
2E Internal control board failure Unplug the washer for five minutes to reset the electronic control board. Plug the washer back in. If the code returns, replace the electronic control board.
AE Communication error between the main PCB and sub PCB in the control panel Check the wire harness connections between the PCB control boards in the control panel. If the wiring connections are sound, replace one or both of the control boards.
SF Main PCB error Unplug the washer for five minutes to reset the electronic control board. Plug the washer back in. If the code returns, replace the electronic control board.
Hr Heater relay failure The heater relay is a component on the main PCB control board. Unplug the washer for five minutes to reset the main PCB control board. Plug the washer back in. If the code returns, replace the main PCB control board.
FAQ
  • How do I check the error code on my Samsung front-load washer?

    Samsung front-load washer error codes will show up on the digital display of the machine. They are generally alphanumeric codes, though some older models also might have blinking lights and icon indicators.

  • How do I reset my Samsung front-load washer?

    To reset a Samsung washing machine, unplug it or turn off the circuit breaker. Wait around one to five minutes. Then restore the power.

  • How do I fix the error on my Samsung washing machine?

    A washer's error codes help to diagnose and potentially fix common problems. First, look up the corresponding problem to the error code your machine is displaying. Take the recommended repair steps. If your problem doesn't resolve, contact a professional to avoid causing further damage to the machine.