Dishwasher: button lock and canceling a program. How to do it?

Updated: October 2026

A dishwasher usually isn't broken. It just has the panel lock on or a frozen program. You can solve both problems in a few minutes.

Step by step

1. Check whether a padlock or key is lit

   That means the panel lock is on. “loc” or “CL” on the display is also a sign of the lock.

2. Turn off the lock with the button

   Hold the padlock button for 3 seconds. On many models it's two buttons at once, described in the manual. Bosch: hold the lock button for 3 to 5 seconds until you hear a beep, and on some models slide the mechanical latch above the door to the right and back. Electrolux: hold Delay Start for 3 seconds, or keep pressing it until “loc” disappears. Samsung: hold Control Lock for 3 seconds (on some models it's Multi tab), or on newer ones: Option, Child Lock, Start, set it to Off and confirm with Start. LG: hold Child Lock for 3 seconds until CL disappears.

3. Close the door all the way

   If the door is slightly open, the panel may not respond. Close the door until it clicks.

4. Cancel the program

   Bosch: on many models hold the Reset button (or Start) for about 4 seconds. The dishwasher will drain the water (about a minute), then open the door and turn it off with the On/Off button. Built-in Electrolux: hold ON/OFF for about 3 seconds. Freestanding Electrolux: hold Delay Start and Options together until the program selection returns.

5. Do a cold restart

   Open the door, wait a moment and close it. Turn off the dishwasher and pull the plug (or switch off the circuit breaker) for 5 minutes. Turn it back on and select the program again.

6. Drain the water

   If water is left in the tub, run a short drain program. If it doesn't drain, clean the filter at the bottom of the tub.

7. Do a factory reset last

   Warning: on models with Wi-Fi it removes the pairing with the app and the water hardness setting. Write them down first so you can set them again.

How much does a repair shop charge?

Typical prices at independent repair shops in Poland, October 2026. Authorised service centres and big cities can be more expensive.

Repair or buy new?

Unlocking and resetting cost nothing. If the dishwasher still doesn't respond, repairing the panel or the pump usually pays off on a machine that's a few years old. A control module in an old dishwasher can be expensive, so compare it in the calculator.

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