What does dC mean on a Samsung washer?

dC means: Door / lid open or lock error. The most likely parts involved are door lock latch assembly, door strike, door hinge.

How much does it cost to fix dC?

A typical door / door lock repair costs about $150–$400 nationally, parts and labor included. This is a reference range, not a quote — local prices vary.

Why won't my Samsung washer door open after a dC code?

The lock may still be engaged, or water may still be in the drum. Wait a few minutes, make sure the drum is empty, then try again. Do not force the door open, since that can break the lock or strike.

Can I keep using my washer with a dC code?

No. The washer will not run until it confirms the door is locked. This is a safety feature, and you should not try to bypass it.

Error codes › Washer › Samsung

Samsung Washer dC Error Code

Door / lid open or lock error

Applies to: All digital display models. May also appear as dE, dE1, dE2, dC1, dL, dS, d5, FL, LO, L0, 1 dC, 1dC1.

What's going on

The dC code on a Samsung washer means the washer cannot confirm that the door or lid is closed and locked. The washer will not start or keep running until it detects a secure lock. Often the fix is as simple as closing the door firmly or clearing something caught in it, but a worn lock, strike, or hinge can also cause it.

Before a cycle starts, the washer locks the door or lid and checks that the lock has engaged. This keeps water in and keeps hands away from a spinning drum. If the control board does not get a signal that the door is shut and locked, it stops and shows dC.

The code can come from something simple, like clothing caught in the door or a lid that is not fully shut. It can also come from a part that has worn out, broken, or shifted out of line. This code applies to Samsung washers with a digital display. Code meanings can differ between model generations, so confirm with your model number.

Likely causes

door lock latch assembly — This part locks the door and tells the control board it is locked. If it fails, the washer cannot confirm the lock and shows dC.
door strike — The strike is the piece on the door or lid that catches in the lock. If it is bent, loose, or broken, it may not engage the latch fully.
door hinge — A worn or loose hinge can let the door sag out of line. Then the strike may not meet the lock squarely, so the lock cannot engage.

The same code can mean different things on different model generations. Check the model number on your washer's rating plate before ordering parts.

Can you fix it yourself?

Doable for an experienced DIYer with the right part, but many people still call a technician.

Safe things to check first

Open the door or lid and close it again firmly until you hear or feel it click. Then try starting the cycle again.
Look around the door edge, seal, and latch area for clothing, a sock, or other items keeping the door from closing fully. Remove anything you find.
Look at the strike on the door or lid for obvious cracks, bends, or looseness, and check whether the door sags or looks out of line when closed. Do not remove any panels.
Unplug the washer or switch off its breaker for a few minutes, then restore power and try again. Always unplug the washer before touching anything inside the door area.

When to call a technician

If the code keeps coming back after you close the door firmly, clear any blockage, and reset the power, a part likely needs replacing. A handy owner may be able to replace a door lock or strike with the correct part for their model, but call a qualified appliance technician if you are not comfortable doing the work or the door will not open.

What the repair usually costs

$150–$400

Door / door lock repair, parts and labor — national reference range

Confidence: low (based on a single cost guide — treat as a rough guide). Plus a service call fee of about $50–$100, often credited toward the repair.

This is not a quote. Prices vary by region and by model.

Repair or replace?

Repair usually makes sense. Even the high end of this repair stays under $500, about half the price of a typical new washer.

A typical new washer costs about $700–$1,300.

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Common questions

What does dC mean on a Samsung washer?: dC means: Door / lid open or lock error. The most likely parts involved are door lock latch assembly, door strike, door hinge.
How much does it cost to fix dC?: A typical door / door lock repair costs about $150–$400 nationally, parts and labor included. This is a reference range, not a quote — local prices vary.
Should I repair or replace my washer?: Repair usually makes sense. Even the high end of this repair stays under $500, about half the price of a typical new washer.
Can I fix dC myself?: Doable for an experienced DIYer with the right part, but many people still call a technician.
Why won't my Samsung washer door open after a dC code?: The lock may still be engaged, or water may still be in the drum. Wait a few minutes, make sure the drum is empty, then try again. Do not force the door open, since that can break the lock or strike.
Can I keep using my washer with a dC code?: No. The washer will not run until it confirms the door is locked. This is a safety feature, and you should not try to bypass it.