GE · Dishwasher Minor

Control Lock — Buttons Locked Out

A Control Lock or padlock icon indicates the keypad is locked. Buttons will not respond until unlocked. Not a fault.

Keep using it?
Yes — fix when convenient
DIY difficulty
Easy
Verified against
geappliances.com ↗ GE use and care manual for ADT521PGF / GDT550HGD dishwashers (linked from this product page), p.5, Control Lock

How to fix it

  1. Depending on the model, press and hold Heated Dry for 3 seconds, or press and hold Steam and Wash Temp together for 3 seconds.
  2. The Control Lock light turns off when the control is unlocked.
  3. If neither works, check the use and care manual for your model; GE notes the lock can also be set after a cycle starts to prevent changes.

Why it happens

Typical signs: The Control Lock light is on · Pads do not respond

  • Child-lock intentionally enabled User or child held the lock pad.
  • Accidental long-press Wipe-down across the touch panel held the lock pad long enough to engage.

More GE dishwasher codes

1h 1h — Delay Start Active C1 C1 Error — Slow Drain (Over 2 Minutes) C2 C2 Error — Drain Cycle Too Long (Over 7 Minutes) C4 C4 — Overfill / Filled Twice After Power Loss C5 C5 — Underfill / Short Drain Time C7 C7 — Water Temperature Sensor (Thermistor) Fault

All GE codes → All dishwasher codes →

Frequently asked questions

What does the Control Lock code mean on a GE dishwasher?

A Control Lock or padlock icon indicates the keypad is locked. Buttons will not respond until unlocked. Not a fault.

What causes the Control Lock code on a GE dishwasher?

Child-lock intentionally enabled: User or child held the lock pad. Accidental long-press: Wipe-down across the touch panel held the lock pad long enough to engage.

Is it safe to keep using a GE dishwasher with a Control Lock error?

Yes — fix when convenient. This is rated a minor-severity fault.

How do I fix Control Lock on a GE dishwasher?

Depending on the model, press and hold Heated Dry for 3 seconds, or press and hold Steam and Wash Temp together for 3 seconds. The Control Lock light turns off when the control is unlocked. If neither works, check the use and care manual for your model; GE notes the lock can also be set after a cycle starts to prevent changes.

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician. Verified against manufacturer documentation: geappliances.com.