Door or Lid Error

What it means

This code appears on Samsung front-load and top-load washing machines when the washer cannot confirm that the door or lid is closed and locked; some models show it as DE or dE. The cycle will not start, or stops for safety, and the washer will not run until the door locks properly. The same code can mean something else on other brands.

Models covered: Samsung front-load and top-load washing machines; newer models show codes ending in C (e.g. 4C), older ones end in E (e.g. 4E) with the same meaning.

Related codes: UB5CACLC

Symptoms4

• The washer beeps and shows DC as soon as Start is pressed.
• No click from the door lock when the cycle begins.
• A top-loader stops during spin if the lid is lifted or not fully closed.
• In some cases the door stays locked after the cycle ends.

Possible causes7

• Door or lid not fully closed because a garment is caught between the door and the seal.
• Bent or loose door hook that does not enter the lock correctly.
• Child lock active, or Start pressed before the door was fully shut.
• Dirt or detergent residue built up around the lock opening.
• Faulty door lock assembly or lid switch.
• Broken wire or loose connector between the lock and the main board.
• Main board fault (rare).

How to diagnose6

1. Open the door or lid, make sure no clothing is caught at the edge or seal, then close it firmly until it clicks.
2. Unplug the washer for a minute or two, then restart it.
3. Check that the door hook is straight and clean, and wipe the lock opening with a dry cloth.
4. Check the user manual to see whether the child lock is on and how to cancel it on your model.
5. If the code repeats, a technician unplugs the washer before opening it and checks the lock assembly or lid switch and their wiring.
6. If the lock is good, the technician checks that the lock signal reaches the main board.

How to fix6

1. Remove any caught item, close the door or lid properly and restart.
2. Clean the door hook and lock opening of residue.
3. Adjust or replace the door hook or hinge if the door is misaligned.
4. Replace the door lock assembly or lid switch if confirmed faulty.
5. Repair the broken wire or loose connector between the lock and the main board.
6. Run a short cycle and confirm the lock clicks and the cycle finishes without the code.

There is no cost when a caught garment or a door not fully shut is the cause; the range starts at a technician visit and reaches the high end when the door lock is replaced along with a wiring repair.

Prices are rough estimates including the part and the technician’s fee, and vary with brand, model and part source.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions