LG · Washer Minor

CL — Child Lock Is On

CL is not a fault — it means Child Lock is enabled, which disables the control panel buttons to prevent changes mid-cycle.

Keep using it?
Yes — fix when convenient
DIY difficulty
Easy
Verified against
lg.com ↗

How to fix it

  1. Press and hold the two buttons labeled "Child Lock" (often Pre Wash + Rinse+Spin, or as marked) for about 3 seconds.
  2. Check your model manual for the exact button pair.
  3. CL clears and the panel responds again.

Why it happens

Typical signs: Buttons do nothing · CL shown on the display

  • Child Lock enabled Turned on intentionally or by accident.

More LG washer codes

AE AE — Leak (Front-Load) or Drum Drive Fault (Top-Load) CE CE — Overcurrent Error dE dE / dE1 / dE2 Error — Door Will Not Lock dE1 dE1 — Door not fully closed dE2 dE2 — Door closed but won't lock dHE dHE — Drying heater error (combo / WashTower)

All LG codes → All washer codes →

Frequently asked questions

What does the CL code mean on a LG washer?

CL is not a fault — it means Child Lock is enabled, which disables the control panel buttons to prevent changes mid-cycle.

What causes the CL code on a LG washer?

Child Lock enabled: Turned on intentionally or by accident.

Is it safe to keep using a LG washer with a CL error?

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

How do I fix CL on a LG washer?

Press and hold the two buttons labeled "Child Lock" (often Pre Wash + Rinse+Spin, or as marked) for about 3 seconds. Check your model manual for the exact button pair. CL clears and the panel responds again.

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: lg.com.