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Samsung Microwave Error Codes: SE, C-10, 5E Complete Guide

Quick Answer

Samsung microwaves have a relatively simple error code system compared to Samsung washers. SE is the most common code, meaning a stuck key/touchpad fault from moisture.

Samsung microwaves have a relatively simple error code system compared to Samsung washers. SE is the most common code, meaning a stuck key/touchpad fault from moisture. C-10 appears on Samsung Smart microwaves with Wi-Fi and indicates a communication fault between the main board and the smart module. 5E is a variant display of SE on some models (the LED renders S as 5). Samsung microwaves do not have a user-accessible diagnostic mode. The most important Samsung microwave troubleshooting step is the 60-second button hold trick: unplug, hold Start for 60 seconds while unplugged, plug in. This resolves transient SE errors in about 40% of cases.

SamsungMicrowave

About These Samsung Microwave Error Codes

Samsung microwave codes: SE/5E = stuck key (most common), C-10 = smart module communication, PF-like display = power interruption. No diagnostic mode available.

Most Common Error Codes

SE: touchpad moisture damage40%
C-10: smart module communication loss24%
5E: same as SE (display variant)14%
Door switch intermittent12%
Power interruption10%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • SE or 5E on display
  • C-10 on smart models
  • Microwave beeps randomly
  • Touchpad unresponsive
  • Smart features not working
  • Clock reset

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Damp clothPhone with SmartThings app (for C-10)

How to Identify Your Error Code

1

For SE/5E

For SE/5E: unplug, hold Start for 60 seconds while unplugged. Plug in and test.

2

For C-10

3

For clock reset or PF-type display

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
Samsung Touchpad/MembraneModel-specific · $30–$60
Samsung Smart ModuleModel-specific · $50–$100

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
BORDERLINE
Estimated Cost: $65 (Parts) vs $325 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 5E the same as SE on Samsung microwave?
Yes. On LED displays that use seven-segment characters, the letter S renders as the number 5. So 5E and SE are the same code with the same meaning and fix.
What is C-10 on my Samsung microwave?
C-10 is a communication fault between the main control board and the Wi-Fi/smart module on Samsung microwaves with SmartThings connectivity. It usually means the smart module lost communication. Reset by unplugging for 5 minutes or factory reset through the SmartThings app.
Samsung microwave has no error but will not heat. What is wrong?
A microwave that runs (turntable spins, light on) but does not heat has a failed magnetron, high-voltage diode, or capacitor. These are internal high-voltage components. This is NOT an error code situation - the microwave needs professional service or replacement.

Related Samsung Microwave Error Codes

Code: SESamsung Microwave SE: Stuck Key

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 HUB Errors

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

ME18H704SFS, ME19R7041FS, MC17J8000CS, ME21M706BAS

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 15, 2026