Samsung washing machine buttons won't work

If your washer won't start, the buttons won't work, or the control knob won't select a different cycle, you probably have Child Lock turned on. If your Child Lock icon is lit or flashing, this confirms it. Turning Child Lock off will usually take care of your problem.
Control panel of a Samsung washing machine with illuminated buttons and settings.
Control panel of a Samsung washing machine with illuminated buttons and settings.

Samsung washing machine buttons won't work

Note
Depending on the selected cycle, certain temperatures, spin speeds, soil levels, or other options on the washer may be disabled. Each cycle has a predetermined list of default and available settings which will vary between models. Your user manual has a chart in the appendix which shows which options are available for each cycle.
1

Confirm the washing machine is turned on.

If the display is not lit and the power button isn't turning the washing machine on, troubleshoot that first.
2

Check for Child Lock.

Child lock icon

If your panel shows the Child Lock icon lit or flashing, this is the reason why the panel isn't responding.

Press and hold the two Child Lock buttons to disable Child Lock. If the icon flashes instead of going away, press and hold the two Child Lock buttons again.

You can find more information about Child Lock in our guide.

3

Check for moisture in the panel.

Moisture in the panel is normal, especially if the washer is in a humid location. Allow the panel to dry and try again.
4

Confirm that setting is available.

Some settings and features do not work with every cycle. If the button works on some cycles but not others, this is normal. See the appendix in your user manual for which settings can be used with each cycle on your model.
5

Reset the washer by unplugging it for 60 seconds, and then try again.

Doing this will reboot the washer which can help fix certain problems, such as unresponsive buttons.
6

Request service.

If the issue continues, visit our Support Center to request service.
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