Samsung Microwave Error Codes

No one likes a faulty appliance, but error codes make the malfunction far easier to solve. If your Samsung microwave is displaying an error code, this will help you figure out the exact nature of the problem so you can begin to fix it. While some errors require a professional to resolve, others can be fixed quite easily. Our guide has the meanings behind some of the most commonly occurring error codes, as well as some simple DIY fixes. 

This guide applies to most popular models of Samsung microwaves, including:

ME16H702SES/AA-0000

ME18H704SFS/AA-0000

MMV1153BAS

SMH1713S

SMH1816S

SMH7185STG

SMH7187STG

SMH8165ST

SMH8187STG

SMH9151B

SMH9187B

SMH9187ST

SMH9187W

SMH9187WXAA

SMH9207ST

SMK9175ST

SMV9165BCXAA

SMV9165SCXAA

SRH1230ZGXAA

SRH1230ZSXAA

WW600XAA

Before You Begin

Before you start looking into the meanings of individual error codes, we recommend performing a hard reset. This can often clear any Samsung microwave error, particularly if the error was caused by a power surge or glitch and doesn’t represent an underlying problem. 

Here’s what to do:

• Unplug your microwave or turn off the corresponding circuit breaker. 
• Wait at least one minute. 
• Plug the microwave back into the power source, then check to see if the error has cleared. 
• If the error code has gone, try using your microwave and watch to see if the error recurs. If it does, consult the below guide to discover the source of the problem. 

If you suspect that the error code was due to excess moisture in the microwave’s interior, try leaving the microwave unplugged for a longer period of time and leave the door open to allow moisture to evaporate. 

Error Codes C-10, C-11, C-12

This error indicates that there is a problem with the gas or pH sensor in your Samsung microwave. The sensors could need replacing, recalibrating, or cleaning to restore their functionality. 

Error Codes C-20, C-21, C-22

This class of errors relates to the microwave’s temperature sensors. The microwave is experiencing issues with managing cooking temperatures, which can lead to hot spots and overheating. This could be due to a faulty sensor or a wiring issue. 

Error Codes C-70, C-71, C-72

These error codes usually mean that there is excess steam or humidity in the microwave. While this could be due to an issue with the steam sensor itself, it can also be caused by too much steam caused by your cooking processes. Try the reset method as outlined above, but leave the microwave unplugged and with the door open for at least an hour to allow the initial components to dry out, then check to see if the error persists. 

Error Codes C-A0, C-A1, C-A2

These error codes indicate internal hardware malfunctions, and as such are best left to a professional technician to fix. We recommend attempting a reset as outlined above, and calling in a professional if the error persists. 

Error Codes C-d0, C-d1, C-d2

These error codes relate to the function of the keypad and the microwave door. If the microwave door is not fully closed or if the keypad buttons are not working properly, these errors may be displayed. If your microwave is displaying these error codes, make sure the door latch is not obstructed, and thoroughly clean the keypad to ensure that the buttons are functioning. 

Error Codes C-F0, C-F1, C-F2

These errors point to a problem with the microwave’s control board. They can be fixed by replacing the control board, but usually require the intervention of a professional.  

Error Codes E-02 – E-05

These codes all suggest an issue with the cooking times for various microwave modes. A hard reset or changing the cooking mode often fixes these error codes. 

Error Codes E-21 – E-26

These error codes all relate to problems with the temperature sensors, including overheating, failure to heat, or inconsistent heating. These problems will usually require the temperature sensor to be replaced, but may also indicate a deeper issue with the microwave’s heating mechanism. 

Error Codes E-33, E-34 and E-35

These codes are common with settings that utilize weight-sensing technology, such as the automatic defrost function. These errors indicate that the food placed on the microwave turntable is either under the minimum weight required or over the maximum weight. If you experience either of these errors, check your Samsung manual to find out the weight limits for your microwave, then adjust the food you are attempting to cook accordingly. 

Error Code E-36

This error code means that your microwave has detected that the door is open and so is unable to run. If this error is occurring but the door appears to be closed, there may be an issue with the door latch or the latch sensors. Thoroughly clean around the latch and sensors, then check to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the latch itself might be faulty and need to be replaced. 

Error Codes -SE- and TE

These codes mean there is a problem with the keypad sensors. If performing a hard reset doesn’t help, try thoroughly cleaning the keypad and then gently massaging each button to free any stuck keys. If this still doesn’t solve the issue, the keypad may be faulty and need to be replaced. 

Error Code LOCK, LOC or L

If you’ve accidentally enabled the child lock on your Samsung microwave, it will display LOCK or L. There are a few different ways to reset this, so try consulting your user manual for the reset method for your particular model. This mode can also be indicated by a padlock symbol on the display instead of an error code. If you’re unsure of the unlock method for your model, try pressing and holding the Clock button and the More/Less button at the same time, holding them down for at least three seconds.