Your Samsung WW80 washing machine is displaying a DC error code. This indicates a fault in the motor control circuit or the motor itself, and the machine will not operate until the problem is resolved.
Likely causes
Based on our service data, DC errors in the WW80 range are most often caused by:
PCB (circuit board) failure – The main control board or motor control module may have developed a fault, electrical burn-out, or moisture damage. This accounts for roughly 45% of DC error reports we see.
Motor malfunction – The drum motor itself may have failed electrically or mechanically, or the motor connections may be loose or corroded. This is found in about 25% of cases.
Pump or drainage issue – Less commonly, a fault in the drain pump circuit or blocked drain path can trigger a DC code, representing roughly 17% of reports.
Other contributing factors can include loose wiring, a failed door interlock, or water ingress into electrical components—though these are less frequent.
Why this needs an engineer
The DC error involves the motor control system and the printed circuit board. Both are live electrical components connected to mains voltage. Diagnosing which part has failed requires specialist test equipment, and any repair will involve working with high-voltage electronics or sealed mechanical systems.
Do not attempt to open the machine or test the motor yourself. Mains electricity poses a serious shock hazard, and dismantling the drum or motor assembly can cause injury or further damage.
A qualified engineer will:
- Test the motor and control board to pinpoint the fault
- Check electrical connections and look for signs of water damage or burning
- Replace the faulty component and run the machine through a full test cycle
When to call SMC Services
Contact us as soon as you see the DC error code. The sooner we diagnose the issue, the faster we can order any parts needed and get your machine back in use. If you're in Northern Ireland, SMC Services can usually book a repair within 2-3 working days.
Step by step
Error code visible and repeatable. The DC code appears when you try to run a cycle. Note down exactly when it appears (at start, mid-cycle, or during drain) and whether the drum attempts to turn.
Check for water or burns around the motor area. Look at the back or side of the machine for any obvious water pooling, burn marks, or scorch smells. Do not touch any components. If you see burns or significant moisture, turn off the machine at the wall and do not use it.
Verify mains supply and plug. Confirm the machine is plugged into a working wall socket (test with another appliance). A weak or faulty power supply can sometimes trigger control errors, though this is less common with DC faults.
Book an engineer visit. Contact SMC Services with the error code and a brief description of what the machine was doing when it appeared. An engineer will diagnose the fault and advise on repair costs and timescale.
Frequently asked questions
Can I clear the DC error by switching the machine off and on again?
You can try a full power-down: unplug the machine for 10 seconds, then plug it back in and run a rinse cycle to see if the error returns. However, if the DC code reappears, this is a genuine fault that won't resolve on its own and will need engineer diagnosis.
Is the DC error always the motor?
No. While the motor is a common cause, the error code typically points to a motor control fault, which could be in the motor itself, the PCB controlling it, or the wiring between them. Only a qualified engineer with test equipment can identify which component has failed.
Can water damage cause a DC error?
Yes, moisture ingress into the motor housing, wiring, or control board can trigger electrical faults and error codes. This is another reason why opening the machine yourself is unsafe and ineffective—the fault site may not be obvious without proper testing.
How much will a DC error repair cost?
That depends on which component has failed. An engineer's diagnostic visit will identify whether it's the PCB, motor, or pump, and we can then quote you for the part and labour. We're happy to discuss options once we've inspected the machine.
Is the machine safe to use if it's showing DC?
The machine will not operate while the error is active, so there's no immediate hazard from continued use. However, the underlying electrical fault should be investigated promptly to avoid potential damage to other components.
Get this fixed
The parts most often needed for this repair — order direct:
Prefer a pro? A local appliance engineer can carry out this repair. SMC's own repair service covers Northern Ireland only. The parts above ship UK-wide.
This page draws on 92 similar repairs
from across 29 years of SMC Services records — over
116,000+ appliance repairs in total since 1997. The
likely-cause percentages above are computed directly from the engineer reports we filed
for this brand and fault, and we update them as new repairs come in.