Error code · Dishwasher

LG Dishwasher Code CL: Control Lock

CL on an LG dishwasher is the control lock. It is not an error. While it is on, the control panel is locked, so pressing buttons does nothing, which can make a perfectly healthy dishwasher seem…

Low risk · DIY check OK

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Code: CL
Appliance: Dishwasher
Brand: LG
Warranty: 30-day workmanship

What CL means

CL on an LG dishwasher is the control lock. It is not an error. While it is on, the control panel is locked, so pressing buttons does nothing, which can make a perfectly healthy dishwasher seem dead. The lock stays active even after the power is turned off, so it will still be there the next time you use the machine. You release it by holding a pair of buttons. The exact pair can differ by model, and Half Load plus Energy Saver is one example.

Common causes of CL

Control lock switched on by a button press
Different lock buttons on different models

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Look at the panel for the lock indicator or the CL characters. 2. Hold the lock buttons for 3 seconds. One example is Half Load and Energy Saver together. 3. Check that the CL display goes away and the other buttons respond. 4. Remember the lock stays on after power-off, so unlock it before you leave it. 5. If the buttons still do not respond, call us.

! Why to stop there

If the lock will not release, the question is whether the panel is registering presses at all.
We check the panel and the control on your model.
We confirm the buttons all respond after the lock comes off.

Opening a panel yourself does not automatically cancel a manufacturer warranty, but it can cause accidental damage, and some manufacturers set their own service conditions. Check your warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.

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Other Dishwasher codes

LELG Dishwasher Code LE: Cleaning Motor nELG Dishwasher Code nE: Vario Pump Impeller OELG Dishwasher Code OE: Drain Problem PELG Dishwasher Code PE: Water Level Sensor PFLG Dishwasher Code PF: Power Interrupted tELG Dishwasher Code tE: Temperature Sensor AE, EI, FELG Dishwasher Codes AE, EI, FE: Leakage or Overfilling bELG Dishwasher Code bE: Oversudsing

CLCL questions

Why will my dishwasher not start?

The control lock may be on. CL on the display means the panel is locked, so presses are ignored. Hold the lock buttons for 3 seconds and try again.

Does the lock reset when I cut the power?

No. The lock stays on after power-off, which surprises people. You need to release it with the button hold, not by turning the dishwasher off and on.

Which buttons do I hold?

It depends on your model. One example is Half Load and Energy Saver held together for 3 seconds. If your panel is different, tell us the model and we will point you to the right pair.

Book a visit

Still unsure about CL?

A technician diagnoses it on site and gives you the price in writing before any work starts.

(713) 597-5662