Error Code CL

The CL code displayed on your Bosch, Siemens, Neff, Constructa, or Gaggenau dishwasher is not an error code, but a functional message indicating that the Child Lock feature is currently active. This safety function is designed to prevent unintended interaction with the control panel, such as a child pressing buttons and disrupting or cancelling the wash program.

Understanding the CL Code

The Child Lock (CL) ensures program continuity. When activated, pressing any button (aside from the lock button itself) will cause the ‘CL’ display to flash, confirming that the controls are unresponsive.

This feature is particularly robust:

• During Program: If CL is active, the washing program will continue uninterrupted, regardless of button presses.
• Power Resilience: The Child Lock status is maintained even if the machine loses power (e.g., during a brief power outage or if the machine is unplugged and plugged back in).
• Automatic Deactivation: Most models automatically deactivate the Child Lock only when the current washing program fully concludes. It must be manually reactivated before starting the next cycle, unless the user manually clears it mid-cycle.

Troubleshooting: Deactivating the Child Lock

If you encounter the CL code and need to resume normal access to the control panel, follow these steps to deactivate the function.

1. Identify the Control Button: On Bosch, Siemens, and related brand dishwashers, the button used to control the Child Lock is typically located on the control panel, often marked with a small key symbol, or identified as the button positioned between the two program reset buttons.
2. Perform Deactivation: Press and hold this specific Child Lock button continuously for approximately 3 to 4 seconds.
3. Confirm Deactivation: Continue holding until the ‘CL’ indicator disappears completely from the digital display. Once the code vanishes, the control panel is fully active, and you can change settings or interrupt the program.

Activating the Child Lock

If you wish to re-engage the safety feature, follow the exact same procedure:

1. Select Program: Start your desired wash cycle.
2. Activate Lock: Press and hold the designated Child Lock button for approximately 4 seconds.
3. Confirm Activation: The ‘CL’ indicator will appear on the display, confirming that the controls are now locked.

When to Call a Pro

The CL code is almost never indicative of a hardware fault, but rather a user-activated function. However, if you find that the CL code will not clear, or the control panel remains locked even after correctly performing the hold sequence, it may signal a rare underlying issue.

1. Perform a Hard Reset: Unplug the dishwasher from the power outlet for 5 to 10 minutes. This completely drains any residual power from the control board and may reset a temporary electronic glitch that is preventing the lock from releasing.
2. Check for Keypad Malfunction: If the CL code appears immediately upon plugging the unit back in, or if holding the button does nothing, inspect the entire keypad area. A faulty or physically damaged membrane switch (button) may be stuck in the “lock” position, simulating a constant hold input.
3. Control Board Failure: In extremely rare cases, if all troubleshooting fails, the main electronic control board (PCB) may be misinterpreting inputs or failing to register the button press command, requiring professional diagnosis and replacement of the electronic module.