Samsung Washing Machine dC Error: Meaning, Causes & Safe Checks

dC Usually simple Safe checks first

Quick answer

Samsung dC (or dE, dC1, dE1) is a door issue: the machine doesn’t think the door is fully closed. Open it, check nothing is caught in the seal, don’t overload the drum, and close it firmly. Check the child lock isn’t confusing things. If the code keeps coming back with the door shut, book a repair.

Also shown as dE dC1 dE1

What dC means on a Samsung washing machine

The machine can’t confirm the door is properly closed, so it won’t start or continue the wash.

Applies to: Samsung washing machines sold in the UK. Shown as dC, dE, dC1 or dE1 depending on the model.

What you might notice

Likely causes

What you can safely check yourself

Stop and call a qualified engineer if:
  • The door still won’t lock, or still won’t open, after the checks. Door locks are an engineer repair. Never force the door.
  • The code or problem comes back after you’ve done the safe checks on this page.
  • The appliance is still under warranty. Contact the manufacturer first, because DIY work can affect your cover.

Work through these in order. Stop as soon as one of the signs above applies.

Close the door properly and check for trapped laundry

  1. Open the door and look around the rubber seal for socks or other items caught between the seal and the glass.
  2. Take a few items out if the drum is packed tight. An overloaded drum can stop the door closing.
  3. Push the door firmly shut until you hear a click, then start the programme again.

Don’t force the door or the handle.

Check the child lock isn’t on

  1. Look for a padlock or key symbol, or a message such as CL, on the display.
  2. Turn the lock off by pressing and holding the marked button (or two marked buttons together) for about 3 to 5 seconds. Your manual shows which buttons your model uses.
  3. Some models have a mechanical child lock on the door instead. Your manual explains how to release it.

When to call an engineer

If the checks above don’t clear dC, or any of the stop signs apply, contact Samsung or a qualified appliance engineer. Have the model and serial number from the rating label ready, and start with Samsung UK support.

Repair or replace?

Most dC cases are cleared by the safe checks above. If they don’t help, the remaining causes are parts an engineer has to diagnose. We don’t publish repair prices because they vary by area, part and model.

Related problems

Related codes

Questions people ask

Is dE2 the same as dE?

No. Samsung’s UK table lists dE2 as an on/off switch error: disconnect from the mains for 5 minutes and try again. DC3 and ddC relate to the AddWash door.

Different code or symptom? Use the fault finder, see all Samsung washing machine codes, or read how Samsung codes work. Not sure it’s safe? Read our safety information.

Sources

Last checked against these sources: .

We write every page in our own words from manufacturer guidance and check it against the sources above. If your manual says something different, follow your manual. How we check.