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ErrBase

How to Start a Samsung Dishwasher

Quick Answer

Starting a Samsung dishwasher is straightforward but there are two common mistakes: not closing the door until it clicks (latch microswitch must engage), and accidentally having child lock active. Samsung's control lock disables all buttons including Start.

The door must latch completely before the machine will respond. If pressing Start does nothing, check that child lock (CL) is not active - hold two buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds to deactivate it.

SamsungDishwasherSeverity: low95% DIY Success
Time to Fix
1–10 min
Difficulty
beginner
Parts Cost
$20 – $35
Tools Needed
None

What Does the HOW-TO-START Code Mean?

Starting a Samsung dishwasher is straightforward but there are two common mistakes: not closing the door until it clicks (latch microswitch must engage), and accidentally having child lock active. Samsung's control lock disables all buttons including Start.

Most Likely Causes

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

Child lock (CL) active - all buttons disabled40%
Door not fully latched - machine will not start as safety measure24%
Start button pressed before cycle is selected22%
Delay start set unintentionally - machine is waiting14%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • Nothing happens when Start is pressed
  • Buttons beep but cycle does not begin
  • Display shows CL
  • Machine powers on but Start button is unresponsive
  • Countdown timer appeared instead of immediate start

Can you reset a Samsung dishwasher to clear the HOW-TO-START code?

If Start does not work: check child lock (CL), check door latch, check for error codes. Hold Start/Cancel 3 seconds to cancel any active cycle or state and return to standby, then retry.

Diagnostic Checklist

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

1

Load dishes, add detergent to dispenser, and close the dishwasher door

Load dishes, add detergent to dispenser, and close the dishwasher door. Push firmly until you hear a definitive click from the latch.

2

Press the Power button

3

Press the desired cycle button (Normal, Heavy, Auto, etc.)

4

If a delay start countdown appeared, either wait for the delay

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
Door Latch AssemblyDD81-02028A · $20–$35

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $28 (Parts) vs $725 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Samsung dishwasher not start when I press Start?
The most common reason is child lock being active (CL displayed or all buttons unresponsive). Hold two buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds to deactivate it. If not CL, confirm the door clicked shut and check for any error code on the display.
Do I press Start or Close on a Samsung dishwasher to begin?
Press Power first, then select a cycle, then press Start. There is no separate Close button - the physical door latch must engage by pushing the door firmly shut.
How do I use delay start on a Samsung dishwasher?
After selecting your cycle, press the Delay Start button to cycle through delay times (usually in 2-hour increments up to 24 hours). Then press Start. The machine will display the countdown and begin automatically.

Related Samsung Dishwasher Error Codes

Code: UNLOCKHow to Unlock a Samsung DishwasherCode: WONT-STARTSamsung Dishwasher Won't StartCode: WONT-TURN-ONSamsung Dishwasher Won't Turn On

Same Fix Works on These Brands

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

Samsung washerSamsung Washer 3C2 Error Code: Motor StallSamsung washerSamsung Washer 3E Error Code: Motor FaultSamsung washerSamsung Washer 4C Error Code: No Water SupplySamsung washerSamsung Washer 4E Error Code: Water Supply Fault (Top Load)Samsung washerSamsung Washer 5C Error Code: Drain Error (Older Display)Samsung washerSamsung Washer 8C Error Code: Vibration Sensor Fault

Models Known to Experience HOW-TO-START Errors

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

DW80R9950US, DW80R2031US, DW80T5040US, DW80K5050US, DW80N6070US, DW80M9550US

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026