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GE Washer dE and Lid Locked: What They Mean and How to Fix Them
Seeing dE on your GE washer, the Lid Locked light, or a front-load door that won’t open? Here is what GE says, how to clear it, and when the lock needs a technician.
What Does dE Mean on a GE Washer?
GE says dE (or E2 on some top-loads) means the lid was opened and the washer paused. The Lid Locked light is different: GE says it comes on when three cycles were started without opening the lid, and the washer won’t start another until you do. On front-load washers, the door locks automatically while the washer runs. GE says codes vary by model, so confirm yours in your Owner’s Manual. Sources: GE washer help messages (opens in a new tab) and front-load door lock (opens in a new tab).
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Common Signs
You may notice one or more of these.
What Causes dE and Lid Locked?
Most are normal behavior. A technician checks the lock when they aren’t.
How to Clear dE and Lid Locked
Don’t force the lid or door: GE warns it can damage the washer.
For dE, close the lid
GE says to close the lid and press Start/Pause to resume the cycle.
For Lid Locked, open the lid
GE says to open and close the lid, then start a new cycle. The washer wants you to check inside after three cycles.
Unlock a front-load door
GE says to press Start/Pause once to pause and unlock. It can take a few seconds, and some cycles drain first.
When to Call a Technician
Schedule a repair if:
- The lid or door won’t lock at all
- It stays locked after the cycle
- dE shows with the lid closed
- The lock clicks over and over
Related GE Washer Pages
GE washer repairMore help, including other GE codes:
GE washer UE error codeGE washer H2O SUPPLY error codeGE oven F2 error codeGE dishwasher C1 error codeAll GE appliance repairGE front-load door lock pageWritten estimate first
Need Help With a GE Lid Lock?
ALAS technicians repair GE washer lid locks, door locks and switches, and give you a written estimate before any repair.
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- 90-day warranty, 6 months for members
- Open daily, 8 AM–8 PM
GE Washer dE and Lid Locked FAQs
GE says dE means the lid was opened and the washer paused. Close the lid and press Start/Pause. On GE refrigerators, dE means something else: a defrost problem.
GE says it happens after three cycles were started without opening the lid. Open and close the lid, then start a new cycle.
The lid stays locked while the basket is still spinning to a stop. GE shows Spin Stop while it coasts. If the lid stays locked after the washer has stopped, the lid lock needs repair.
GE says to press Start/Pause once to pause and unlock; some cycles drain first, so it can take a moment. Don’t force the door, which GE says can damage the washer.
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