On many Samsung washers, dC, dE, dS, FL, and related displays indicate that the door is not detected as closed and locked. Some models use dC differently, so the model manual remains essential.
What dC / dE means
On many Samsung washers, dC, dE, dS, FL, and related displays indicate that the door is not detected as closed and locked. Some models use dC differently, so the model manual remains essential.
What you may notice
- The washer will not start
- The door clicks but does not lock
- The code appears after loading
- The door may remain locked after a stop
Most likely causes
- 01Clothing is caught in the door
- 02Detergent residue is in the latch
- 03The door is not fully seated
- 04The latch or hinge is damaged
- 05The door-lock switch or wiring has failed
Safe checks, in order
Start with the simplest non-invasive check. Stop as soon as the error clears; repeated resets can hide a condition without correcting it.
Remove obstructions
Move clothing away from the gasket and latch area.
Inspect the latch
Wipe away residue and look for a cracked hook, loose fastener, or misalignment.
Close it firmly
Close without slamming, then press Start once.
Power-cycle once
If the tub is empty, disconnect power for one minute and retry.
Know where to stop
Do not bypass the door switch, force the latch, or operate a washer with a damaged door. A lock is a safety device.
When to call a technician or support
Arrange service if the latch is damaged, the door will not unlock after draining, or the code returns with an empty, properly closed door.
When you call, have the exact product or vehicle model, model year where relevant, the complete code or symbol, and when it appeared.
Where this information came from
We use the manufacturer's current published guidance as the starting point, then organize it into a safer, beginner-friendly sequence.
Samsung Support — washing machine information and error codes Source last checked August 16, 2026. Manufacturer instructions and model manuals take priority over this independent summary.