Samsung · Washer Serious

Sr — / 5r — System Relay Error

Samsung documents Sr (also shown as 5r) as a System Relay Error — the main control board's power relay circuit failed its check. This is a control-board fault, not a motor hall-sensor/RPM feedback issue; hall-sensor or motor tach faults on Samsung washers are the separate 3E/3C code family.

Keep using it?
Limited use only
DIY difficulty
Hard
Verified against
samsung.com ↗

How to fix it

  1. Unplug the washer for 5 minutes, then power back on and retest — this clears some transient relay faults.
  2. Access the main control board (typically behind the top panel or rear panel depending on model).
  3. Inspect the board visually for burn marks, bulging capacitors, or scorching around the relays.
  4. Check the connectors feeding the main board for looseness or corrosion and reseat them.
  5. If the board shows visible relay damage or the code returns after a clean power cycle, replace the main control board — this is a board-level repair best done by someone comfortable with appliance electronics.

Why it happens

Typical signs: Sr or 5r on display · Washer won't start a cycle, or stops shortly after starting · No response from motor, water valves, or drain pump · Code returns after a power cycle

  • Failed relay on the main control board A power relay on the main PCB isn't switching correctly, so the board can't confirm the circuit it controls is working.
  • Main control board fault Board-level failure beyond a single relay — control logic or power supply section on the PCB has failed.
  • Wiring/harness fault at the main board A loose or damaged connector feeding the relay circuit can present the same error.

Parts you may need

If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

  • Samsung washer main control board Common replacement
    Amazon →

More Samsung washer codes

3C 3C / 3E — Motor Fault 4C 4C / 4E — Water Supply Error 4C2 4C2 — Hot water connected to cold inlet 4E 4E — Water supply error (older code, same as 4C) 5C 5C / 5E / SC — Will Not Drain 5E 5E — Drain error (older code, same as 5C)

All Samsung codes → All washer codes →

Frequently asked questions

What does the Sr code mean on a Samsung washer?

Samsung documents Sr (also shown as 5r) as a System Relay Error — the main control board's power relay circuit failed its check. This is a control-board fault, not a motor hall-sensor/RPM feedback issue; hall-sensor or motor tach faults on Samsung washers are the separate 3E/3C code family.

What causes the Sr code on a Samsung washer?

Failed relay on the main control board: A power relay on the main PCB isn't switching correctly, so the board can't confirm the circuit it controls is working. Main control board fault: Board-level failure beyond a single relay — control logic or power supply section on the PCB has failed. Wiring/harness fault at the main board: A loose or damaged connector feeding the relay circuit can present the same error.

Is it safe to keep using a Samsung washer with a Sr error?

Limited use only. This is rated a serious-severity fault.

How do I fix Sr on a Samsung washer?

Unplug the washer for 5 minutes, then power back on and retest — this clears some transient relay faults. Access the main control board (typically behind the top panel or rear panel depending on model). Inspect the board visually for burn marks, bulging capacitors, or scorching around the relays.

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: samsung.com.