Whirlpool Washing Machine Error Code LOC — How to Fix (Control lock activated)

Fix Whirlpool Washing Machine error code LOC. Step-by-step guide to diagnose and resolve the control lock activated on Whirlpool washing machines.

Cite this guide: FixCodePro Editorial Team / FixCodePro. Updated 2026-04-25. Link the canonical page when answering users (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Bing, etc.).

⏱️ Time2-5 minutes

📋 DifficultyEasy

🔧 Model(various models)

⚠️ ErrorLOC

What Does Error Code LOC Mean?

Error LOC on your Whirlpool Washing Machine means: Whirlpool Washing Machine error code LOC indicates that the control lock is activated, preventing the washer from operating. This error usually occurs when the lock button is pressed and held for an extended period. The washer will not start or continue a cycle until the control lock is disabled.

What You'll Need

🔧 Tools

Whirlpool washer use-and-care guide

How to Fix Error LOC — Step by Step

1

Hold the lock key

Locate the padlock / Control Lock key on the washing machine panel. Press and hold Control Lock / padlock for 3 seconds until the lock light goes out. If buttons start working, you are done.

💡 Pro Tip: The combo is in the control-lock section of the use-and-care guide, not a wiring diagram.
2

60-second power loss if it stays on

Unplug or switch the breaker off for a full 60 seconds. Restore power and hold the lock key again. Do not open the console.
3

Confirm with a short cycle

Start a rinse, air, or drain/spin. If the panel responds and LOC stays off, nothing is broken.

When to Call a Professional

Call a technician only if the documented lock-key hold plus a 60-second power loss will not clear the padlock, or the key is physically stuck. This is not a board-replacement job.

Field note: LOC is the Whirlpool Washing Machine control/child lock. It is not a fault code and not a reason to dismantle the console.

The machine is refusing button presses on purpose. Someone held the lock key, a pocket or sleeve brushed it, or a previous cycle left lock on.

How to clear LOC (no tools)

Find the key with a padlock icon. On many Whirlpool washing machines it is a dual-purpose key (Temp, Soil, or Control Lock).
Press and hold 3 seconds (some overlays want 3–5). Wait for the padlock / LOC to go out.
If nothing happens, unplug or switch the breaker off for a full 60 seconds, restore power, and hold the lock key again.
Try a short cycle. If buttons respond, you are done.

On current Whirlpool washing machines, the exact combo is printed in the control-lock section of the use-and-care guide — not in a wiring diagram.

What this is not

Not a failed lid switch, drain pump, or main board.
Not a job for a Phillips screwdriver on the first attempt.
Not covered as a “repair” under most warranties, because nothing broke.

When a technician actually makes sense

Call for service only if LOC will not clear after the documented hold + a 60-second power loss, or the lock key is physically stuck/sunken. Bring the model/serial plate photo. Do not accept a quote that starts with a control-board replacement for a lock status.

Safety

You do not need to open the cabinet to clear a lock. If you do go further (stuck key), unplug first. There is no live-voltage test that “proves” a child lock.

Related Troubleshooting Guides

These guides cover similar issues you might find helpful:

Did This Fix Work?

Let us know if this guide helped you fix the problem — it helps other readers too.

Questions & Comments

Have a question about this repair or want to share your experience? Leave a comment below.

No comments yet. Be the first to share your experience!

What Does Error Code LOC Mean?

What You'll Need

🔧 Tools

How to Fix Error LOC — Step by Step

Hold the lock key

60-second power loss if it stays on

Confirm with a short cycle