On the covered Whirlpool dryer, Loc, -:-- means the Control Lock is on, or the display shows dashes instead of a time First, confirm the dryer otherwise runs normally. Then: hold the Control Lock key for 3 seconds, or power-cycle the dryer to clear dashes.
Differential
Likely causes of “Whirlpool dryer code Loc, -”, and how to tell them apart
- 1
Control Lock is on
What separates it Loc shows on the display and the dryer will not start
How to confirm Whirlpool says the Loc code means the Control Lock has been enabled and the dryer will not start or operate while it is locked
- 2
A dual-function key that carries the lock
What separates it There is no key on the panel that is labeled lock
How to confirm Whirlpool says the control lock may be a stand-alone key or a dual-function key paired with another button such as Extra Rinse or Steam
- 3
A control state that shows dashes instead of a time (-:--)
What separates it The display shows dashes and the dryer otherwise works
How to confirm Whirlpool gives a one-minute breaker reset for the dashes
Before you touch a setting
Record this first — changing settings destroys the evidence
- Whether the display says Loc or shows dashes
- Which keys exist on the panel
- Whether any cycle still starts and runs normally
Try in this order
0 of 6 completedWhat to do first
ReversibleConfirm the dryer otherwise runs normally.
Correct only the documented fault domain
ReversibleHold the Control Lock key for 3 seconds, or power-cycle the dryer to clear dashes.
Unlock the controls
ReversibleWhirlpool says to press and hold the Control Lock key for 3 seconds to unlock the machine; the display counts down 3, 2, 1. If the lock is a dual-function key, press and hold that button, not the text below it, for three seconds.
Clear dashes
ReversibleFor -:-- Whirlpool says: if any cycle is working, try resetting the controls by turning the breaker off for one minute, turning it back on, starting a Timed Dry cycle and monitoring the dryer for one minute.
Check your manual
ReversibleWhirlpool says to see your owner's manual for your specific model, because the lock and its key differ by console.
Confirm the panel responds
ReversibleAfter you unlock the controls or clear the dashes, touch each pad once and start a short timed dry cycle to confirm the dryer starts and runs normally before you load a full basket.
Model-specific
What is true of this model and not of its siblings
- Displayed as
- Loc or -:--.
- Parts named
- None.
Stop boundary
When this stops being a self-service repair
- !Unplug the dryer before you open the console
- !Call for service if the panel stays locked after the unlock hold and a breaker reset
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
Where the manufacturer's article stops. The 3 second hold is Whirlpool's own wording.
Exact questions
Common questions
What does Loc, -:-- mean on a Whirlpool dryer?+
the Control Lock is on, or the display shows dashes instead of a time
What does Loc mean?+
Whirlpool says the Control Lock has been enabled; the dryer will not start or operate until it is unlocked.
How long do I hold the key?+
3 seconds, according to Whirlpool.
What are dashes in the display?+
Whirlpool publishes them as a control state to power-cycle rather than a component fault.
Do these need a repair?+
No part is named.
Which key is the Control Lock?+
It may be a stand-alone key or a dual-function key paired with another button such as Extra Rinse or Steam; your owner's manual shows which key on your console it is.
Does the lock stop the dryer mid-cycle?+
Whirlpool says a locked control will not start or operate the dryer; unlock it before you try to start a cycle.