Fix a Samsung Dryer That Won’t Start with dE or dO Error Codes

We know it’s frustrating when your Samsung electric dryer won’t start because a faulty door switch triggers error dO or dE, and we’re here to help you fix it yourself. We’ll walk you through identifying the problem and replacing the door switch so you can get your dryer running again.

If you need any replacement parts for your Samsung dryer, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

What you need

• Phillips screwdriver
• Multimeter

Safety tips

Your safety should always be the top priority when performing any appliance repair.

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it. 
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust, or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.

How to troubleshoot a Samsung dryer that does not start and shows error dO or dE

Below are the steps to diagnose and resolve the issue by testing the main PCB and door switch.

Test the main PCB 

1. Disconnect power to the dryer by unplugging the power cord or turning off the circuit breaker.
2. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws securing the top panel at the back of the dryer.
3. Slide the top panel back, lift it up, and set it aside.
4. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the three mounting screws securing the main control housing to the front and side frame.
5. Carefully rotate the main control housing to gain access to the wires.
6. Locate the CN7 and CN1 wire connections.
7. Set a meter to continuity mode, indicated by a symbol resembling a sideways WiFi signal.
8. Disconnect the CN1 wire connection.
9. Close the dryer door.
10. Use the meter to test for continuity between the brown wire on CN1 and the blue wire on CN7.
11. If continuity is detected, replace the main PCB.
12. If no continuity is detected, the door switch has likely failed and should be tested further.

Test the door switch

1. Disconnect the wires located behind the console on the right side of the dryer.
2. Lift the console up and pull it away from the dryer.
3. Feed the wires through the top bracket and set the console aside.
4. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws behind the dryer door in front of the lint trap.
5. Remove the four screws securing the top of the front panel.
6. Slightly lift the front panel and rotate it forward to expose the door switch harness.
7. Set the meter to continuity mode.
8. Close the dryer door.
9. Test for continuity between the double-wired terminal labeled NO and the white-wired terminal labeled COM.
10. If no continuity is detected, replace the door switch.

Still need assistance?

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your Samsung dryer working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos. 

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more.

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