Samsung washing machine control unit repair

A failure of the washing machine's main electronic module is a serious matter. If this happens, the washing machine may not turn on at all, or it may start but run programs incorrectly. For example, it may not spin, wash in cold water, etc. Such malfunctions make the machine unusable.

In this case, repairing the control unit is essential. We'll explain why a Samsung automatic washing machine's module might fail. We'll also explore whether it's possible to repair the controller yourself.

Why does the control unit break down?

Samsung washing machines are known for their high reliability. The brand manufactures equipment that meets European quality standards, so they typically require no repairs for many years of use. However, a small percentage of breakdowns do occur.

The main electronic unit of a Samsung washing machine can fail due to various factors. Let's look at the main causes of this malfunction.

• Manufacturing defects. While the incidence is minimal, they do occur. They can be identified visually – the board will show poorly soldered contacts, loose tracks, areas of solder leakage, etc. The problem usually manifests itself within the first month of use. In this case, it's worth contacting a service center; the breakdown is covered by warranty, so it will be fixed free of charge.
• Electrical problems. The electronics in modern washing machines are very sensitive to power surges. A strong surge can cause the control unit to fail.
• Liquid spillage on the board. The module should never come into contact with water. Otherwise, it will cause oxidation of the contacts and tracks. Sometimes, the user overdoses the detergent, causing the soap to leak out of the tank and onto the electronics. The microcontroller shorts out and stops functioning. Often, thoroughly drying the control unit is sufficient in this situation.

Water may get onto the control board during transportation of the washing machine, so the washing machine must be transported standing, securely fixed in an upright position.

Mice or rats, which like to chew on the contacts, can also disrupt the operation of a Samsung washing machine's control unit. Cockroaches that have gotten inside the machine can also cause malfunctions. Let's look at how to check if the electronic module is indeed malfunctioning.

Let's make sure the block is broken

How can you tell if the problem is truly with the microcontroller? The symptoms of this problem can vary. You should consider repairing the control unit if you notice the following signs:

• the washing machine fills the tank with water and immediately drains it;
• the machine does not turn on, and the error code appears on the display;
• all indicators on the dashboard are lit or flashing;
• washing programs are not running correctly, with significant disruptions (the cycle duration increases, the water does not heat up to the required temperature, etc.);
• The drum rotates unpredictably - sometimes quickly, sometimes very slowly.

If the equipment simply froze while executing a program, then it is also likely that the problem lies in the control module. Self-diagnosis system for washing machines Samsung will help identify the cause of equipment failure. Information on how to activate test mode is provided in the instructions.

You can inspect the control board yourself at home. To do this, you'll need to remove the electronic unit. Here's how:

• de-energize the washing machine;
• Turn the shut-off valve to shut off the water supply to the washing machine;
• Unscrew the two bolts holding the top cover of the case, remove it and put it aside;
• remove the powder container from the machine;
• remove the screws located around the perimeter of the control panel;
• remove the instrument panel by disconnecting the wire contacts;
• Unfasten the latch and open the module cover.

Be sure to take a photo of the terminal connection diagram - this will help you avoid making mistakes when reassembling the washing machine.

Next, the unit is inspected for carbon deposits, damaged contacts, tracks, and oxidized areas. Even a single semiconductor can burn out, which can cause equipment malfunctions. What should be done if such defects are detected?

Is it possible to repair the unit yourself?

Removing the electronic module on Samsung washing machines is fairly simple. The process is similar on machines from other brands. The real challenges begin afterward—repairing the control unit itself requires specific knowledge and tools.

If you've never worked with electronics and don't understand what tracks or semiconductors are, it's best not to risk repairing your washing machine yourself. You should entrust the work to professionals when:

• it is noticeable that some areas of the control board have changed color (these may be dark spots or scorch marks);
• the capacitors have changed shape (their caps may become convex);
• the varnish coating on the magnetic coils has faded;
• the area where the main processor is located has darkened;
• changed the color of the microcircuit pin.

In these cases, the board will need to be resoldered and some semiconductor components will need to be replaced. It's best to leave this repair to specialists. Otherwise, you could cause further damage to the machine.

   

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