Samsung front-load washers are designed to provide reliable cleaning performance and efficiency. However, like all appliances, errors can occasionally occur. Understanding Samsung washer error codes can help owners identify and troubleshoot problems quickly. Here is a comprehensive list of Samsung front-load washer error codes to assist with diagnosis.
Common Causes of Samsung Front-Load Washer Errors
Before diving into specific error codes, it’s helpful to understand some of the general issues that can cause Samsung front-load washers to display error messages:
- Water supply problems – Errors related to water not flowing correctly into the washer are common. This could be due to closed supply valves, kinked hoses, clogged filters, or faulty water inlet valves.
- Drain issues – Drain problems like clogs, kinks, siphon issues, or a faulty drain pump can prevent proper water removal during cycles.
- Electrical and sensor faults – Malfunctioning components like motors, control boards, pressure sensors, and door locks can all trigger error codes.
- Imbalance problems – An uneven or off-center wash load can prompt errors due to improper spinning and vibration.
Knowing the source of the problem makes troubleshooting washing machine error codes much simpler.
Samsung Front-Load Washer Error Code List
Below are common error codes shown on Samsung front-load washer display panels:
E:02 – Door is Open
This code indicates that the washer door has not properly latched and locked. The door switch detects when the door is ajar. This safety feature prevents the washer from operating with the door open.
Solutions:
- Make sure the door is completely closed. Listen for a click when shutting the door.
- Inspect the door switch and connections. Test it with a multimeter for functionality.
- Check for obstructions near the door latch area. Remove any items or debris restricting door closure.
E:21 – Water Supply Failure
An E:21 error points to an issue with water not entering the washer properly. It is one of the most common Samsung washer error codes.
Causes:
- Malfunctioning water inlet valves that fail to open and allow water flow.
- Kinked, closed, or leaking water supply hoses.
- Clogged water filters obstructing proper water flow.
- Low household water pressure.
Solutions:
- Check that hot and cold supply valves are fully turned on.
- Inspect supply hoses for leaks, kinks and bends.
- Clean inlet water filters of any debris buildup.
- Test inlet valve operation and voltages with a multimeter.
- Check home water pressure at other faucets.
E:23 – Drain Failure
The washer cannot properly drain water after agitating and spinning. This typically indicates a drain system blockage or malfunction.
Causes:
- Clogged or kinked drain hoses.
- Debris trapped in the drain pump filter.
- Plugged household drain lines connected to the washer.
- Non-functioning drain pump unable to expel water.
Solutions:
- Inspect and clean drain hoses. Ensure no kinks are present.
- Remove the drain pump filter and clear out any accumulated lint or objects.
- Use a plunger or drain snake to unclog household drain lines.
- Check voltage at the drain pump motor connector. Replace pump if needed.
E:36 – Communication Error
This code signifies a communication problem between the washer’s control boards. It often points to a faulty main control board.
Solutions:
- Power cycle the washer and retry operation.
- Ensure all wire harnesses and connections between boards are intact.
- Inspect boards for any sign of damage or burned components.
- Replace the main control board if diagnostic steps do not resolve the error.
E:41 – Water Leak
Excess water has been detected inside the washer cabinet during operation. Water leaks pose a safety hazard.
Causes:
- Damaged or cracked water supply hoses, inlet valves, or tub components.
- Malfunctioning door seals allowing water seepage.
- Overfilling of the tub due to faulty water level sensors or valves.
- Drain pump failure leading to overflow.
Solutions:
- Check all hoses, valves, and connections for leaks. Replace damaged parts.
- Inspect door gaskets and reseat if necessary. Run cleaning cycles.
- Test water level sensor resistance. Check drain pump operation.
- If leaks originate from the tub, replacement of tub seal kit may be required.
E:45 – UE – Unbalance Error
This code indicates the washer drum is unstable and vibrating excessively during the spin cycle. Laundry loads can become unbalanced if too large or unevenly distributed.
Solutions:
- Redistribute wash load to maintain uniform drum balance. Remove excess items.
- Ensure drum spins freely without friction during diagnostics.
- Check shock absorbers for any leakage of hydraulic fluid.
- Replace faulty sensors that monitor drum imbalance.
- Check control board for any error with imbalance detection programming.
3E – Motor Control Failure
This common error code indicates a problem with the motor control unit responsible for managing the washer’s drive motor. It typically points to a faulty control board.
Solutions:
- Check all motor wiring harnesses and connectors.
- Test the motor windings for open circuits. Replace motor if faulty.
- Inspect the main and motor control boards for damage. Replace if needed.
- Attempt a control board reset to clear any software glitches before replacing parts.
Troubleshooting Tips for Samsung Washer Error Codes
When a Samsung washer displays an error code, here are some general guidelines to help troubleshoot the problem:
- Perform a power reset – Unplugging the washer for 1 minute often resolves intermittent errors. This can reset faulty boards.
- Check wire harnesses – Ensure all wire connections between boards and components are intact. Damaged wires can cause errors.
- Review error code meaning – Understanding the specific issue helps pinpoint which parts could require repair.
- Conduct diagnostic testing – Use a multimeter to measure voltages and component resistances while attempting to operate the washer.
- Inspect parts – Visually check all suspected components based on error code meaning. Look for damage. Test functionality where possible.
- Replace affected parts – Swap in new parts one by one until error code clears. Confirm proper voltages during replacement procedures.
While Samsung front-load washers are well built, errors can happen. Paying attention to washer error codes and following sound troubleshooting practices helps restore normal operation. Proper diagnosis of error codes paired with component testing allows homeowners to zero in on the root cause and make DIY repairs when possible. Contacting a Samsung authorized servicer is recommended for complex issues.
dE – Door Lock Error
A dE error code indicates there is an issue with the washer’s door lock mechanism. This system locks the door once a cycle starts to prevent the door from being opened.
Causes:
- Faulty door lock switches, sensors or control boards.
- Obstructed or malfunctioning door lock actuator.
- Wiring problems between lock components and main control.
Solutions:
- Check all door lock wiring harnesses and connections.
- Test the door latch sensor and switches for proper resistances. Replace if faulty.
- Inspect the door lock actuator and linkage. Remove any obstructions.
- Replace the main control board if components test functional but error persists.
nd – No Drain
This error signals that water is not properly draining out of the washer tub after a cycle completes. It indicates a clogged drain system or malfunctioning drain pump.
Causes:
- Clogged or kinked drain hoses preventing outflow.
- Blocked drain pump due to debris buildup.
- Drain pump failure or voltage issues.
- Poor drain line installation with improper siphon effect.
Solutions:
- Clean or replace clogged drain hoses. Ensure no kinks are present.
- Remove any objects such as coins from the drain pump filter housing.
- Check drain pump voltage. Test pump motor windings. Replace pump if faulty.
- Reconfigure drain lines to maintain proper height and siphon effect.
PS – Power Supply Failure
The PS code signifies that the washer’s electrical power supply system is not functioning correctly.
Causes:
- Bad power cord connections resulting in no power to unit.
- Faulty control boards regulating power flow.
- Voltage mismatch between household supply and appliance rating.
- Damaged power supply components like capacitors.
Solutions:
- Check power cord connections at outlet and rear of machine.
- Confirm household outlet is delivering proper 240V power if washer is a 240V model.
- Test control board voltages. Replace main or motor boards as needed.
- Inspect the power supply and replace capacitors or other damaged parts.
LOE – Motor Locked Error
This Samsung washer error indicates the drive motor has locked up and will not turn. This could stem from motor failure or other mechanical problems.
Causes:
- Seized bearings or damaged windings in motor.
- Heavy friction in drum or pump areas preventing rotation.
- Broken belt unable to turn drum and motor shaft.
- Faulty motor controller or wiring issues.
Solutions:
- Check belt condition and reinstall/replace if broken.
- Test motor windings, resistance and voltages. Replace motor if faulty.
- Inspect for anything impeding drum or pump rotation.
- Verify motor control board and wiring harness integrity.
5E – Imbalance Detected
This code signifies excessive vibration of the washer tub, indicating an unbalanced laundry load. The imbalance sensor triggers this error.
Causes:
- Uneven distribution of wash load in drum.
- Overloading the washer beyond maximum capacity.
- Heavy wash items concentrated to one side of tub.
- Faulty imbalance sensor or control board issue.
Solutions:
- Redistribute laundry evenly around drum. Remove excess items.
- Check tub for bearing issues impeding spin.
- Verify wire connections to imbalance sensor.
- Replace faulty sensor or control board if power and wiring check out.
IE – Inlet Error
The washer is not sensing proper water flow during the fill portion of the cycle. This can indicate inlet valve issues.
Causes:
- Malfunctioning water inlet valves not opening properly.
- Low water pressure at household plumbing valves.
- Partially closed supply valves reducing water flow volume.
- Damaged or leaking water supply hoses.
Solutions:
- Inspect supply hoses for damage. Check household water pressure.
- Verify supply valves are fully open. Filter screens are clean.
- Test inlet valve operation and power connection. Replace valve if faulty.
- Check water level sensor and wire harness integrity. Replace sensor if needed.
FE – Water Overflow Failure
Excess water has flooded the washer cabinet. This serious error code prevents damage from water overflow.
Causes:
- Blocked drain system unable to remove water fast enough.
- Malfunctioning water inlet valves staying open.
- Damaged door seals/gaskets allowing water leakage.
- Water level sensor issues leading to overfilling.
Solutions:
- Clear any drain obstructions. Ensure pump is draining properly.
- Test inlet valves. Replace any valves stuck open.
- Inspect door seals and reseat if not sealing properly.
- Check water level sensor resistance and function. Replace if faulty.
PE – Pressure Sensor Failure
This code indicates the water level pressure sensor is not providing accurate readings to the main control board during fill cycles.
Causes:
- Faulty water level pressure sensor unable to properly measure water volume.
- Wiring harness damage between sensor and control board.
- Clogged pressure sensor tubes blocking water flow.
- Control board incorrectly interpreting sensor signals.
Solutions:
- Check pressure sensor tube condition and clear any debris.
- Measure sensor resistance and check wiring integrity.
- Replace pressure sensor if diagnostic steps fail to resolve issue.
- Swap in new main control board if all other components test functional.
CE – Communication Failure
The main control board cannot properly communicate with the drive motor control unit in the washer.
Causes:
- Damaged or disconnected wiring between the boards.
- Defective motor control unit or main logic board.
- Loose wiring connections to boards or system relays.
Solutions:
- Check all wiring between boards and components for damage.
- Verify wires at terminal connections are securely attached.
- Reset power and perform an electrical controller test sequence.
- Replace the motor control unit or main board if communication issue persists.
nF – No Fill
This display code indicates the washer tub is not filling with water properly at the start of the cycle.
Causes:
- Malfunctioning water inlet valves preventing water entry.
- Kinked, closed, or leaking water supply hoses.
- Clogged mesh water inlet filters blocking flow.
- Defective water level sensor or pressure switch.
Solutions:
- Inspect supply hoses for kinks, damage, and connection issues.
- Clean debris from inlet filter screens.
- Test water inlet valves for power and functionality. Replace if faulty.
- Check water level sensor and pressure switch resistance. Replace if defective.
FF – Control Fault Detected
This code signals the main control board has experienced an internal control fault. It often requires replacement of the defective control board.
Solutions:
- Reset power and attempt clearing error again.
- If code persists, replace the faulty main control board.
AE – Water Leakage
This display indicates that water has been detected in the washer base, usually due to an internal component leak.
Causes:
- Damaged or cracked water supply hoses, valves, or tub components.
- Poor door gasket seal allowing water to leak out.
- Overfilling due to faulty water level sensor or valves.
Solutions:
- Check hoses, valves, pumps, and tub for cracks/leaks. Replace parts as needed.
- Ensure door gasket is properly sealed. Run cleaner cycle.
- Inspect water level sensor resistance and water valve operation.
tE – Thermistor Failure
This Samsung washer error code signifies an issue with the thermistor temperature sensor used to monitor internal tub temperature.
Causes:
- Disconnected or damaged thermistor sensor wiring harness.
- Defective thermistor causing incorrect temperature readings.
- Main control board incorrectly interpreting thermistor signals.
Solutions:
- Check wiring between thermistor sensor and control board.
- Measure thermistor resistance and compare to spec. Replace if faulty.
- If thermistor checks out, replace the main control board.
LE – Motor Lock Error
This code indicates the motor is locked and will not turn during operation. This could stem from motor failure or mechanical drum lockup.
Causes:
- Seized motor bearings or defective windings preventing rotation.
- Heavy friction or obstruction in drum or pump areas.
- Broken drive belt unable to rotate drum and motor.
Solutions:
- Check drive belt condition and reinstall/replace if damaged.
- Inspect for foreign objects or debris inside drum or pump.
- Test motor windings and voltages. Replace motor if defective wiring or seizure found.
SE – Motor Control Error
The main control board is having difficulty managing the drive motor during wash cycles, indicating a control board problem.
Solutions:
- Check all wiring connections between motor and main control board.
- Inspect motor windings for any short circuit or open contacts.
- Replace the main control board if motor diagnostic steps fail to resolve the error.
F74, F76 – Water Level Switch Failure
These codes signify that the water level switch in the tub is defective, or there are issues with front load washer water level control.
Causes:
- Faulty water level pressure switch in tub giving inaccurate readings.
- Broken or obstructed pressure switch air tube.
- Damaged switch wiring connections to main board.
Solutions:
- Check pressure switch air tube for debris and clear any clogs.
- Inspect wire harness to switch. Ensure solid connection.
- Test or replace water level pressure switch based on findings.
F80, F81 – Main PCB Failure
These codes point to a defective main control board causing operational problems for the front load washer.
Solutions:
- Reset power and attempt to clear error code.
- Visually inspect the main PCB for damaged parts or dislodged connectors.
- If diagnostic steps fail to resolve issue, replace the faulty main control board.
bE – Motor Control Fault
The bE code indicates an issue with the motor control circuitry in the washer. This typically requires replacement of the motor control board.
Solutions:
- Check all motor and board wiring connections for integrity.
- Inspect motor windings and other drive components. Replace if faulty.
- If internal components check out, replace the motor control board to clear the error.
PF – Power Failure
This Samsung washer error code indicates that the was