LG Dryer CL Code: Child Lock Is On (How to Turn It Off)

What the code means

LG's US dryer error-code list says a CL code or CHILD LOCK reading is not actually an error code but an indication that the Child Lock feature is active: the control panel is disabled and settings can't be adjusted. LG's Child Lock article explains the feature is meant to stop children and others from changing cycle settings during a dry cycle, that it can only be turned on while a cycle is running, and that once on it remains on at the end of the cycle and even when the dryer is powered off. While it's on, you can't start the dryer until you turn it off. LG UK adds that if the lock is set during a cycle, the display alternates between CL and the remaining drying time, and an LG dryer owner's manual notes every button except Power is locked. Which buttons control the lock depends on the model: a dedicated button labeled Child Lock, Control Lock or CL, or two buttons with a lock symbol pressed together (for example Favorite + Delay End on some LG models). Your owner's manual names the exact buttons.

Likely causes

• Child Lock was turned on on purpose, or by accident by holding the lock button or the two lock-marked buttons for about 3 seconds during a cycle
• The lock was left on from an earlier cycle; LG says it isn't cancelled when the cycle finishes or when the power is turned off
• A child or someone else pressed the lock buttons while the dryer was running
• Rarely, buttons that still don't respond after the lock is cleared, which points to a control panel problem

Safe DIY checks

1. Make sure the dryer is powered on. LG says the lock can only be turned off with the power on.
2. Find the lock control: a button labeled Child Lock, Control Lock or CL, or two buttons with a small lock symbol between or under them.
3. Press and hold that button, or both lock-marked buttons at the same time, for about 3 to 5 seconds until the beeper sounds and CL disappears.
4. If your model has no labeled button and you can't find the lock symbol, check the Child Lock section of your owner's manual. Some LG dryers use Favorite and Delay End held together for 3 seconds.
5. After CL clears, press a few other buttons to confirm they work, then start your cycle.
6. Don't expect unplugging or turning the dryer off and on to clear CL; LG says the lock survives a power cycle.

Parts that commonly fix it

Always match the part number to your exact model.

Related codes

• D80 LG Dryer D80
• D90 LG Dryer D90
• D95 LG Dryer D95
• nP LG Dryer nP
• tE1 LG Dryer tE1

All LG codes →

Sources

1. LG USA: LG Dryer Error Code List (CL is not an error code but the Child Lock indicator; hold Child Lock 3 seconds)
2. LG USA: How to Use the Child Lock Feature (CL Error Code), dryer single- and two-button models, 3 to 5 seconds, stays on after power-off
3. LG UK: Why Do My Dryer Buttons Not Work (CL alternates with remaining time; Favorite + Delay End)
4. LG dryer owner's manual (Child Lock: all buttons except Power locked; not reset by power-off or cycle end)