Whirlpool Washer LoC — What It Means & How to Fix It
Also shown as LC, LOC on some models.
LoC or LC is not an error: Control Lock is switched on, and touching and holding the Control Lock button for 3 seconds turns it off.
What this code means
Whirlpool states there is no error — Control Lock is activated. While it is on the controls will not function, and pressing buttons brings up LoC or LC as a reminder. You can still touch Start to pause a cycle or Power to turn the washer off.
The display reads LoC or LC depending on the model. On older models the button that sets Control Lock differs — check the owner's manual.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Control Lock switched on deliberately | Very common | Yes — no tools |
| Control Lock button held by accident, for example while cleaning the panel | Common | Yes — no tools |
| A child pressing the buttons | Common | Yes — no tools |
What you can try yourself
- Find the button labelled Control Lock (it may be a secondary label under another button).
- Touch and hold it for 3 seconds. The display counts down 3, 2, 1.
- Release when the lock indicator goes out and the controls respond.
- If your model has no such label, look up Control Lock in the owner's manual for the right button.
Seeing the symptom rather than the code? Washer door or lid trouble: checks that apply across brands.
When to call a technician
- Holding Control Lock for 3 seconds has no effect.
- The lock switches itself back on repeatedly.
- Other buttons remain dead after the lock is off.
Typical professional repair cost: Nothing — this is a setting, not a repair.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get my Whirlpool washer out of LoC?
Touch and hold the Control Lock button for 3 seconds.
Is LC a fault code on a Whirlpool washer?
No. Whirlpool says there is no error; it is a reminder that Control Lock is set.
Can I stop the washer while it is locked?
Yes. You may still touch Start to pause the cycle or Power to turn off the washer.
Sources checked
Error meanings can vary by model. This guide was checked against the documentation above; use the manual for the model number on your own appliance when it differs.
Related Whirlpool codes
- Whirlpool Washer F9 E1 The washer took too long to drain — check the drain hose setup and the pump filter; the 'hose pushed too far down the standpipe' mistake causes a surprising share of these.
- Whirlpool Washer F5 E2 The washer tried to lock its door and couldn't — usually an obstruction or grime in the latch, sometimes a worn lock assembly that needs replacing.
- Whirlpool Washer SD Too much foam — the washer paused its cycle to break down excess suds, which almost always traces back to detergent amount or type rather than a fault.
- Whirlpool Washer F8 E1 Your Whirlpool washer isn't detecting water coming in — usually a supply problem (taps, hoses, screens) rather than anything wrong inside the machine.
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