Code: SE🔧 Samsung Microwave

Samsung Microwave SE (5E) Error Code: A Touch Key Is Stuck or Shorted

Reviewed 2026-10-25 · Based on 4 manufacturer & service sources

What the code means

Samsung's microwave information-code tables (Samsung UK and Samsung Gulf) list "C-d0 / -SE- / SE" together with the description "The touch key was pressed for more than 10 seconds," and the action "Unplug the power cord and clean the button (dust, water). If the same problem appears again, contact the Samsung service centre." Samsung Russia's table lists SE/5E as a control panel malfunction and, for the matching C-d0 code, says to unplug the microwave, clean the control panel, make sure no liquid got onto it, wipe off any liquid and let it dry for 1 to 2 hours before trying again. Because the display uses seven-segment characters, SE often looks like 5E. In practice the control sees a key as permanently pressed: grease or moisture behind the membrane, a key that is physically stuck, or a worn-out or shorted keypad. Samsung US gives the same general routine for any microwave error code: unplug it or turn it off at the breaker, let it dry if moisture got into the electronics (a spill or steam from a cooktop), otherwise wait 60 seconds and turn it back on, and request service if the code returns. A related code, C-F2 or -tE-, means abnormal communication with the touch keys; Samsung's fix for that one is simply pressing Stop and trying again.

Likely causes

Safe DIY checks

⚠ Before you start

Unplug the appliance or switch off its breaker before opening panels.

  1. Check that nothing is pressing on the control panel and that no key is visibly stuck down.
  2. Unplug the microwave, or switch it off at the circuit breaker for an over-the-range model.
  3. Clean the control panel with a soft cloth that is only slightly damp with mild soapy water. Don't spray cleaner directly on the panel, since liquid can seep behind the keys.
  4. If liquid or steam may have gotten onto the panel, wipe it dry and leave the microwave unplugged for 1 to 2 hours (longer is fine) so it dries out completely. When cooking on the range below, use the hood fan to keep steam off the microwave.
  5. Plug it back in and try the keys. If SE is gone, you're done.
  6. Don't open the microwave case to get at the keypad or control board. Microwaves contain a high-voltage capacitor that can hold a dangerous charge even when unplugged.

🛠 When to call a pro

  • SE comes back after cleaning and drying: Samsung says to contact its service center. The usual repair is replacing the touch keypad or control panel assembly.
  • Keys respond only some of the time, or the panel looks cracked or bubbled: the keypad membrane is likely damaged and needs replacement by a technician.
  • Any repair that involves opening the microwave cabinet should be done by a qualified technician because of the high-voltage parts inside.

Parts that commonly fix it

Always match the part number to your exact model.

⚙

Touch control panel keypad

Only if cleaning and drying don't clear SE. Match your exact model number; replacement means opening the cabinet, so leave the install to a technician.

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Sources

  1. Samsung UK: Samsung Microwave Oven error codes, what do they mean? (C-d0 / -SE- / SE: touch key pressed for more than 10 seconds; unplug, clean the button of dust or water, contact service if it returns)
  2. Samsung Gulf: What do the information codes on my microwave mean?
  3. Samsung Russia: Samsung microwave error codes (SE/5E control panel malfunction; C-d0 key held over 10 seconds: unplug, clean panel, dry 1 to 2 hours if liquid got in)
  4. Samsung US: What does the error code on my Samsung microwave mean? (unplug or breaker off, let moisture dry or wait 60 seconds, request service if the code returns)

Last reviewed 2026-10-25. Always confirm against the manual for your exact model number.