What to Check First
- A lock icon lights up on the display, or "CL" appears on the screen.
- All cycle and option buttons are disabled.
- If your LG dishwasher displays "CL" and the buttons are unresponsive, the Child Lock feature is active. This safety feature prevents unintended use. To disable Child Lock, make sure the dishwasher is turned on, then press and hold the Child Lock button for 3 seconds.
- Child Lock is a safety feature designed to prevent accidental operation by children. When active.
- Child Lock remains active even after a wash cycle ends or the dishwasher is turned off. Therefore, when you turn the dishwasher back on, the buttons will still be unresponsive.
- 1. Press the [Power] button to turn on the dishwasher. 2. Press and hold the [Child Lock] button on the control panel for 3 seconds. 3. Once the "CL" indicator or lock icon disappears from the display, select your desired cycle.
- * Note: Child Lock remains active even if you turn the dishwasher off and on again after a cycle ends. If the buttons are unresponsive after powering on, disable Child Lock before use. Please note that this is not a malfunction.
- This guide was created for all models, so the images or content may be different from your product.
Why This Can Happen
Symptoms can have more than one cause, and the correct steps depend on the exact model, installation and operating conditions. Use the checks above to narrow the issue before service.
Safety and Model-Specific Guidance
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I check first for [LG Dishwasher] Why Is 'CL' Showing on the Display and Buttons Not Responding??
A lock icon lights up on the display, or "CL" appears on the screen.
When should I stop troubleshooting and contact LG?
Stop if the product shows signs of electrical damage, burning, leaking near electrical components, or if the recommended checks do not resolve the issue. Use LG USA support for model-specific service guidance.
Does this guidance apply to every LG model?
Not always. Controls, error codes and service steps can differ by model. Confirm the exact model number and follow the linked LG USA article for model-specific instructions.
Related LG Products
These model pages are linked because the stored category or exact model matches this Help Library topic.