Warning: Disconnect power before servicing.
ErrBase

LG Dishwasher CL: Child Lock Active

Quick Answer

CL on an LG dishwasher is a status indicator, not a fault code. The control panel has been locked to prevent accidental button presses, typically by a child pressing the Start/Pause button for several seconds. To unlock, press and hold Start/Pause for 3 seconds.

CL on an LG dishwasher is a status indicator, not a fault code. The control panel has been locked to prevent accidental button presses, typically by a child pressing the Start/Pause button for several seconds. To unlock, press and hold Start/Pause for 3 seconds. The lock symbol or CL disappears immediately. No parts, no tools, and no service call are needed.

LgDishwasherSeverity: low99% DIY Success
Time to Fix
1–2 min
Difficulty
beginner
Parts Cost
—
Tools Needed
None

What Does the CL Code Mean?

CL is child lock -- a deliberate feature, not a malfunction. Press and hold Start/Pause for 3 seconds to toggle it off. The panel will respond normally afterward.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

CL was enabled intentionally and the method to disable it was forgotten60%
Child or adult accidentally held Start/Pause for 3 seconds40%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • CL displayed on control panel
  • None of the buttons respond to presses
  • Dishwasher will not start
  • Lock icon visible on display

Can you reset a Lg dishwasher to clear the CL code?

Press and hold Start/Pause for 3 seconds. CL will disappear from the display and the control panel will unlock immediately. If this does not work, unplug the unit for 60 seconds, plug back in, and try again.

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

1

Locate the Start/Pause button on the control panel

Locate the Start/Pause button on the control panel. Press and hold it for 3 full seconds. The CL indicator or lock icon should disappear from the display.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is CL a serious problem on an LG dishwasher?
No. CL is a built-in child lock feature that can be toggled off in seconds. It does not indicate any hardware fault and does not require any repairs.
Why won't my LG dishwasher start even though CL is gone?
If CL clears but the dishwasher still will not start, there may be a separate fault code present that was hidden behind the CL indicator. Look for any other code on the display and consult the appropriate guide.

Related Lg Dishwasher Error Codes

Code: AELG Dishwasher AE Error Code: Leak DetectedCode: BELG Dishwasher BE Error Code: Button Error

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Lg shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.

Lg washerLG Washer Error Codes: Complete List With Fixes (2026)Lg washerLG Washer LE Error: Why the Motor Locked Up (Fix It Fast)Lg washerSUD on Your LG Washer? Too Many Suds (Here's the Real Fix)Lg washerLG Washer OE Code: Water Won't Drain (Troubleshooting Guide)Lg washerHow to Reset an LG Washer (Every Method, Every Model)Lg washerFE Code on LG Washer: Overfilling and How to Stop It

Models Known to Experience CL Errors

This repair applies to most Lg dishwashers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

LDFN4542D, LDF5545ST, LDFS5788S, LDP6763ST, LDFN3432T, LDFN4542S, LDFN4542W

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026