Maytag Washer LOC Code: How to Unlock the Controls

Quick Answer

LOC (or CL on some models) simply means Control Lock is activated. It is not a malfunction - it is a safety feature. The fix is to hold the Control Lock button for 3-5 seconds.

LOC (or CL on some models) simply means Control Lock is activated. It is not a malfunction - it is a safety feature. The fix is to hold the Control Lock button for 3-5 seconds. On most Maytag top-loaders, this button is labeled or has a lock icon above one of the cycle buttons. In 95% of cases, a child or the user accidentally activated it. In rare cases, a failing UI board causes LOC to reappear immediately after deactivation.

MaytagWasherSeverity: low98% DIY Success

Time to Fix

1–10 min

Difficulty

beginner

Parts Cost

$85 – $185

Tools Needed

None for normal fix

Wrong code?

Not seeing LOC on your display?

Select what your appliance is actually doing and we'll take you to the right guide.

error code lookup

HUB

reset to clear stuck LOC

RESET

washer won't start

SYMPTOM

control lock engaged, identical fix

WhirlpoolLOC

What Does the LOC Code Mean?

LOC is a user-interface state, not a malfunction. It indicates the control lock feature is active, which disables all button presses except the lock button itself. On some Maytag models the same feature displays as CL rather than LOC, depending on the control board revision.

Most Likely Causes

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

Accidental activation by a child pressing panel buttons40%

User activated Control Lock while cleaning the panel24%

Failing UI board repeatedly re-activating the lock after it is cleared22%

Control Lock activated by a button being held during a cycle transition14%

Symptoms You May Notice

LOC or CL displayed on the control panel
Washer has power but does not respond to any button press
Cycle will not start despite washer appearing on
Lock icon illuminated on the control panel

Can you reset a Maytag washer to clear the LOC code?

Hold the Control Lock button for 3-5 seconds. The LOC indicator will turn off. If it returns, unplug the washer for 60 seconds and retry.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

None for normal fix

Diagnostic Checklist

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

Locate the Control Lock button

Look for a button labeled Control Lock or a button with a padlock icon. On most Maytag top-loaders, the Control Lock function is shared with another button - look for small text above or below one of the cycle option buttons. On front-load Maxima models, it may be labeled Child Lock.

Hold the Control Lock button for 3-5 seconds

Power cycle if LOC persists

Test UI board if LOC keeps returning

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name	OEM Number	Estimated Price
UI boardW10438256 · $85–$185	W10438256	$85 – $185

Verify part fitment for your Maytag model

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs

Labor Approach

Our Verdict

BORDERLINE

Estimated Cost: $135 (Parts) vs $550 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Maytag washer say LOC and won't start?

LOC means Control Lock is active, which disables all button input to prevent accidental starts or setting changes. It is not a malfunction. The washer is working normally and will start as soon as Control Lock is deactivated. Hold the Control Lock button for 3-5 seconds to turn it off. The LOC indicator will go dark when deactivated.

Is LOC the same as CL on a Maytag washer?

Yes. LOC and CL both indicate the Control Lock feature is active. Newer Maytag models with full alphanumeric displays show LOC. Some older models or those with limited display segments show CL. The fix is identical for both: hold the Control Lock button for 3-5 seconds.

How do I turn off child lock on a Maytag washer?

Child lock and Control Lock are the same feature on Maytag washers. To turn it off: find the button labeled Control Lock or with a padlock icon on your control panel, then press and hold it for 3-5 seconds. The lock indicator will turn off and the controls will respond normally. The button location varies by model - check the label above or below each button if you do not see one labeled Control Lock.

My LOC light is blinking but the button does not work. What should I do?

A blinking LOC light that does not respond to the Control Lock button may indicate the UI board is malfunctioning. First try unplugging the washer for 60 seconds to power cycle the control board. If the LOC light returns and the button still does not deactivate it, the UI board likely needs replacement. On Maytag models, this is OEM part W10438256. Maytag and Whirlpool share this board, so the repair procedure is the same on both brands.

Related Maytag Washer Error Codes

Code: HUBAll Maytag Washer Error Codes: Complete Lookup Guide Code: RESETHow to Reset a Maytag Washer Code: SYMPTOMMaytag Washer Won't Turn On: 7 Things to Check

Same Fix on Other Brands

Whirlpool washerLOC: Whirlpool Washer LOC Code Fix

Same Fix Works on These Brands

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

Maytag washerMaytag Washer 5D Code: Too Many Suds (Fix It Fast)Maytag washerAll Maytag Washer Error Codes: Complete Lookup Guide Maytag washerHow to Reset a Maytag Washer (3 Methods That Work)Maytag washerMaytag Washer Troubleshooting: Fix 12 Common Problems Maytag washerMaytag Washer Not Draining? Here's What to Check Maytag washerMaytag Washer Won't Spin: Causes and Fixes by Model

Models Known to Experience LOC Errors

This repair applies to most Maytag washers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

MVWC415EW, MVWB835DW, MHW5500FW, MHW7000XW, MVWB765FW, MVWC465HW

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026