The Samsung AE/CE error indicates the control panel cannot communicate with the main control board. Try an extended power cycle first—turn off the breaker for 5+ minutes. This error often follows power surges or outages and may clear after reset. Persistent AE/CE errors typically require professional board inspection or replacement.
| Error Code | AE / CE (also: None) |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Communication failure between control panel and main board |
| Difficulty | Difficult |
| Time to Fix | Diagnosis: 20 min; Repair: Professional |
| Tools Needed | None for basic diagnosis |
| DIY Fixable | Professional recommended |
| Official Source | Samsung Support |
The AE or CE error code on Samsung dishwashers indicates a communication failure between the control panel (display board) and the main control board. This is an internal electronics issue that often follows power disturbances.
What the AE/CE Error Code Means
When your Samsung dishwasher displays AE (or CE on some models), the two main electronic components cannot communicate:
- Control panel (display board): Located behind the door controls, handles user input and displays status
- Main control board: Located in the base or door, controls all dishwasher functions
When these boards can’t communicate, the dishwasher cannot operate and displays AE or CE.
Model Coverage
This guide applies to Samsung dishwashers displaying AE or CE error codes:
- DW80CG, DW80BB, DW80B series (2022+)
- DW80R, DW80T series (2019-2022)
- DW80M, DW80K, DW80J, DW80N series (2015-2020)
AE and CE are interchangeable—Samsung uses different codes on different model generations for the same issue.
Common Causes
The AE/CE error typically results from:
- Temporary electronic glitch following power surge or outage (most common)
- Loose wire connection between display board and main control board
- Power surge damage to one or both control boards
- Defective display board (front control panel)
- Defective main control board
- Water damage to board connections (rare)
Step-by-Step Diagnosis
Step 1: Extended Power Cycle
Communication errors often clear with a longer-than-normal power cycle.
- Turn off the circuit breaker for the dishwasher
- Wait at least 5 minutes (10 minutes is better)
- This extended time allows all capacitors to fully discharge
- Restore power at the breaker
- Turn on the dishwasher and check for error
Standard 1-2 minute power cycles often don’t clear AE/CE errors because the control boards retain charge longer than other components. Always use 5+ minutes for communication errors.
Step 2: Check for Recent Power Events
AE/CE errors commonly follow power disturbances.
Consider whether any of these occurred recently:
- Power outage (even momentary)
- Lightning strike in the area
- Circuit breaker trip
- Plugging in high-draw appliance on same circuit
- Electrical work in the home
If yes, the extended power cycle is very likely to resolve the issue.
Step 3: Test After Power Restore
After restoring power:
- Turn on the dishwasher
- Check if AE/CE error is gone
- If clear, select a cycle and press Start
- Monitor for the first few minutes
- If cycle begins normally, the issue was likely a temporary glitch
Step 4: Listen for Control Board Activity
When you power on the dishwasher, listen carefully:
Normal sounds:
- One or two relay clicks from the control area
- Display lights up
- Responds to button presses
Abnormal signs:
- Rapid clicking (relay chattering)—may indicate voltage or board issue
- No clicks at all—may indicate board failure
- Partial display (some segments lit, others not)—display board issue
- Buttons unresponsive—communication failure continuing
Step 5: Check for Visible Damage (Advanced)
If you’re comfortable accessing the control panel area:
- Disconnect power at breaker
- Remove screws holding the inner door panel (varies by model)
- Carefully access the display board area
- Look for:
- Loose wire connectors
- Burnt or discolored components
- Corrosion on connections
- Water damage evidence
- If you find loose connectors, reseat them firmly
- Reassemble and test
Note: This requires working inside the door panel and may void warranty. When in doubt, call a professional.
Why DIY Repair Is Limited
AE/CE errors involving actual board failures require:
- Proper diagnosis to identify which board (display or main) has failed
- Matching replacement parts for your specific model
- Correct reassembly of wire harnesses
- Potential firmware considerations on smart models
Control board replacement involves careful handling of electronic components and proper connector alignment. Professional service is recommended.
Typical Repair Costs
| Component | Part Cost | Total with Labor |
|---|---|---|
| Display board | $75-150 | $175-275 |
| Main control board | $150-250 | $275-400 |
| Wire harness | $30-60 | $100-175 |
If both boards need replacement (rare), total costs can approach $500+. At that point, dishwasher replacement may be more economical.
When to Call a Tech
Contact a professional if:
- AE/CE persists after 10+ minute power cycle
- The error returns repeatedly (more than 2-3 times in a month)
- You notice burnt smell from the control area
- Display shows partial or garbled information
- Buttons are unresponsive even when display works
- You’re not comfortable accessing control panel components
What to tell the technician:
- Exact error code (AE or CE)
- Any recent power events (outages, surges)
- Whether power cycle ever clears it temporarily
- Any unusual sounds or smells
- Age of the dishwasher
Preventing AE/CE Errors
- Use a surge protector on the dishwasher circuit if possible
- Don’t overload circuits—dishwashers draw significant power during heating
- Address power quality issues—frequent outages or surges indicate electrical problems
- Keep connections dry—avoid spraying water directly at the control panel
LED-Only Models
On models without digital displays, a communication error may show as all four or more indicator lights blinking simultaneously. The same troubleshooting steps apply.
Sources
For official Samsung support: