On the covered LG top-load washer platform, dL means a Door Lock Error — the door locking mechanism is not functioning properly. LG's causes: the door is closed but the machine will not operate, foreign objects obstructing the locking mechanism, or use in a humid environment such as a bathroom. First, check for and remove any foreign object obstructing the locking mechanism.
Differential
Likely causes of “LG top-load washer code dL”, and how to tell them apart
- 1
A foreign object in the locking mechanism
What separates it The lid is closed but the washer will not run
How to confirm LG says the lock is on the right side of the door and items trapped in it cause dL
- 2
Debris in the lid lock assembly (Sears)
What separates it The lock does not engage, which points to debris in the lid lock assembly (Sears)
How to confirm The Sears table says to check for debris in the lid lock assembly that prevents the lock mechanism engaging
- 3
Humidity damage to components
What separates it The washer sits in a bathroom or damp room
How to confirm LG says a humid environment can damage components through moisture
- 4
A failed lid lock/switch assembly
What separates it The lock is clean and wired properly, which points to a failed lid lock/switch assembly
How to confirm The Sears table says you usually need to replace the lid lock/switch assembly
Before you touch a setting
Record this first — changing settings destroys the evidence
- The exact characters shown on the display: dL
- Whether an object sits in the lock area
- Whether the washer stands in a humid room
Try in this order
0 of 6 completedWhat to do first
ReversibleCheck for and remove any foreign object obstructing the locking mechanism.
Correct only the documented fault domain
ReversibleLG names a humid installation, such as a bathroom, as its own cause — consider where the washer is installed.
Clear the lock area
ReversibleLG says dL is a Door Lock Error: the door locking mechanism is not functioning properly. Check for and remove any foreign objects obstructing the lock, which is on the right side of the door.
Check the wiring
ReversibleThe Sears table says to unplug the washer and check the wiring connections on the lid lock/switch assembly.
Move out of the damp
ReversibleUse the washer where it is not humid, or open windows regularly for air circulation.
Replace the assembly
ReversibleIf you find no wiring problems, replace the lid lock/switch assembly; if humidity caused the damage, LG says service fees may apply even within warranty.
Model-specific
What is true of this model and not of its siblings
- Displayed as
- dL.
- Parts named by the service table
- Lid lock/switch assembly.
Stop boundary
When this stops being a self-service repair
- !Unplug the washer before you check the lock wiring
- !Request service if the lock is damaged or dL persists, as LG says
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
Where the manufacturer's article stops. The warranty note is LG's own.
Exact questions
Common questions
What does dL mean on a LG top-load washer?+
a Door Lock Error — the door locking mechanism is not functioning properly. LG's causes: the door is closed but the machine will not operate, foreign objects obstructing the locking mechanism, or use in a humid environment such as a bathroom.
Where is the lock?+
On the right side of the door, according to LG.
Can humidity cause it?+
Yes; it can damage components through moisture.