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ErrBase

Samsung Dishwasher Lights Flashing

Quick Answer

On Samsung dishwashers without a numeric display, flashing light patterns communicate error codes. On machines with a display, flashing lights alongside a blank display usually means a control board or power fault.

Samsung dishwasher lights flashing means either a specific error code is being communicated visually (on models without a numeric display), the machine is paused and waiting for a door close, or the control board needs a reset after a power fault. All lights flashing simultaneously is the most common pattern and typically indicates a control board reset is needed.

SamsungDishwasherSeverity: moderate85% DIY Success
Time to Fix
2–15 min
Difficulty
beginner
Parts Cost
—
Tools Needed
None

What Does the LIGHTS-FLASH Code Mean?

On Samsung dishwashers without a numeric display, flashing light patterns communicate error codes. On machines with a display, flashing lights alongside a blank display usually means a control board or power fault. All lights flashing simultaneously is the signal to perform a breaker reset.

Most Likely Causes

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

Control board reset needed after power interruption40%
Error code being communicated via light flash pattern24%
Door opened mid-cycle - machine paused and waiting14%
Power supply fluctuation causing board glitch12%
Control lock active (specific light may flash)10%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • All indicator lights flashing simultaneously
  • One or two specific lights flashing in a repeating pattern
  • Lights flash, machine does not start when Start is pressed
  • Display blank but lights still flashing

Can you reset a Samsung dishwasher to clear the LIGHTS-FLASH code?

Hold Start/Cancel for 3 seconds for soft reset. Flip breaker off 30 seconds for full reset. If specific error code lights are flashing, use diagnostic mode (Sanitize + Hi-Temp, 5 seconds) to retrieve the stored code.

Diagnostic Checklist

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

1

Note which lights are flashing and whether all are flashing or

Note which lights are flashing and whether all are flashing or just specific ones. If all lights flash together: proceed to reset steps. If specific lights flash: check the error code chart for your model.

2

Hold Start/Cancel for 3 seconds

3

Flip the circuit breaker off for 30 seconds

4

Enter diagnostic mode to retrieve stored fault codes: hold

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are all the lights flashing on my Samsung dishwasher?
All lights flashing simultaneously is typically a control board reset signal caused by a power interruption or internal fault. Hold Start/Cancel for 3 seconds to attempt a soft reset, then flip the breaker if that does not work.
What does it mean when specific Samsung dishwasher lights flash in a pattern?
On models without a numeric display, flashing patterns encode error codes. For example, a pattern of 7 flashes on the Normal light may indicate a specific fault. Consult the error code chart in your model's service manual or use diagnostic mode.
My Samsung dishwasher lights keep flashing after reset. What is wrong?
If lights resume flashing after both soft and breaker resets, enter diagnostic mode by holding Sanitize + Hi-Temp for 5 seconds to retrieve the stored fault code. A persistent flash without a resolvable code may indicate control board failure.

Related Samsung Dishwasher Error Codes

Code: RESETHow to Reset a Samsung DishwasherCode: WONT-TURN-ONSamsung Dishwasher Won't Turn OnCode: HUBSamsung Dishwasher Error Codes: Complete Guide

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 LIGHTS-FLASH 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