Seeing **dL** on a Samsung washing machine narrows the problem to **door / door-lock error**. What you do next depends on whether the code is an issue, a normal status/test message, or a model-dependent interpretation. The useful diagnostic value of the code is the subsystem it identifies. A good repair process confirms the symptom, checks the accessible external conditions, and then follows the model-specific circuit only if the display returns. The recorded display form is **dL**. Search normalization stores it as **DL** while preserving the characters a homeowner actually sees.
Reviewed by Ethan Mercer · Last reviewed August 17, 2026
Written by
Ethan Mercer Appliance Repair Content SpecialistPublished August 17, 2026Updated August 22, 2026Technically reviewed August 17, 2026
Content status:
Verified
Error codeDL
ApplianceWasher
Quick answer
Door / door-lock error.
Model compatibility: Samsung can reuse or reformat codes across series and model years, so DL may mean something different on another appliance or generation. Confirm this against your model’s documentation and record your full model number before acting.
Plain language
What this code means
Seeing **dL** on a Samsung washing machine narrows the problem to **door / door-lock error**. What you do next depends on whether the code is an issue, a normal status/test message, or a model-dependent interpretation. The useful diagnostic value of the code is the subsystem it identifies. A good repair process confirms the symptom, checks the accessible external conditions, and then follows the model-specific circuit only if the display returns. The recorded display form is **dL**. Search normalization stores it as **DL** while preserving the characters a homeowner actually sees.
Signs
Symptoms you may notice
Depending on the exact model, the appliance can refuse to start or continue a cycle.
A symptom that fits dL is that a door, lid, divider, or latch can not be recognized as closed or locked.
Depending on the exact model, the code can return immediately when the appliance reaches a door-safety check.
On affected Samsung washing machine models, dL appears during the washer stage associated with door / door-lock error.
When the dL condition is present, the cycle can pause, stop, retry, drain, or refuse to advance until the condition is cleared.
Why it happens
Possible causes
varies by model/region — cross-region baseline — Door / door-lock error
Before you call
Safe checks you can make
These are simple, non-hazardous checks only. If anything is unclear, stop and contact a technician.
Before opening any service area, open and close the door or lid firmly without forcing it.
Before requesting service for dL, remove clothing, racks, cookware, packaging, or debris that can interfere with closure.
Before opening any service area, inspect the visible latch/strike area for obstruction or damage without bypassing the safety interlock.
With dL recorded, if water is trapped in a washer or dishwasher, resolve the drain condition before trying to force the door open.
A safe owner-level check is to record the code and the cycle stage where it appears.
The next non-invasive check is to verify owner-accessible water supply, drain hose/filter, load balance, door, detergent, or power only when relevant.
Important safety warning. Disconnect power and stop use for active leakage near electrical parts, smoke, burning smell, or repeated breaker trips. If resolving dL would require energized internal access, that is the point to hand the diagnosis to a qualified technician.
Get help
When to request repair service
Request service if the door closes normally but the code returns, the latch will not release safely, or diagnosis requires testing the interlock, wiring, or control circuit. A repeatable dL event is more useful diagnostically than repeated resets, because it shows when the door / door-lock error check is failing.
Book your repair
Seeing this code on your Samsung appliance?
Book a specialist visit for a clear estimate and approval before any repair.
Resetting can clear a temporary state, not a persistent issue. If **dL** comes back, preserve the code and move to the safe checks or model-specific service path.
Short owner-accessible checks may be reasonable when the appliance is safe. Persistent **dL**, worsening performance, or any electrical/water/heat hazard is a reason to stop use.
The code alone is not enough to justify a part. **dL** should narrow testing to the affected function; the final cause still has to be verified on the exact model.
The same-looking code can be reused on another Samsung appliance family or reformatted by region/model year. Match the appliance type and exact model before applying a meaning. This page therefore keeps **Washer dL** separate from same-looking codes used by other Samsung appliance families.