LG Dishwasher CL Code — Child Lock / Control Lock Active
What this means
CL on an LG dishwasher is not an error but indicates the Child Lock (Control Lock) feature is active. This safety feature prevents children from accidentally starting, stopping, or changing dishwasher settings. When active, all buttons are disabled except the power button.
Step-by-step fix
2 stepsDeactivate the child lock
Press and hold the button(s) indicated by the CL label on your control panel for 3 seconds. The CL indicator will disappear when deactivated.
The button combination varies by model. Look for the CL text printed above or below a button pair on your control panel.
If CL will not deactivate
Try resetting the dishwasher by turning it off, unplugging it or switching off the circuit breaker for 1 minute, then turning it back on. Then attempt to deactivate child lock again.
When to call a professional
Not necessary. This is a normal feature, not a malfunction.
Information compiled from manufacturer service manuals, official troubleshooting documentation, and appliance repair industry resources. This guide is for informational purposes only — always consult a qualified technician for complex repairs.
Learn more about our sourcesParts you may need
No replacement parts typically needed for this fix.
Links may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend parts relevant to this repair.