Samsung Microwave SE Error Code: What It Means and How to Fix It

Last updated: October 5, 2026 · Codes covered: SE, C-d0 · Sources

Verify in your manual: Samsung's UK, Canada and US pages word SE and C-d0 differently, and codes vary by model and country.

An SE code on a Samsung microwave is a "key short error." The microwave thinks one of its touch keys is being held down, or is shorted, when it isn't. Moisture, grease, or a stuck key is often to blame, and a clean, a dry-out, and a power reset fix it more often than you'd expect. If it keeps coming back, the keypad or control needs a repair, and that's a job for Samsung service, not a DIY repair.

Depending on the model and region, it can show as SE, -SE-, or C-d0.

What the SE code means

Samsung uses slightly different wording by region, but it's the same idea:

• Samsung Canada lists SE as a "Key Short Error."
• Samsung UK groups C-d0 / -SE- / SE together and says it appears when "the touch key was pressed for more than 10 seconds."
• Samsung US lists C-d0 to C-d2 as a "door or key error" and gives the same reset for all codes. It also warns that moisture from a spill or from cooktop steam can cause error codes.

So the microwave isn't broken just because SE appeared. Something made a key look pressed for too long. That can be a real finger (or a child leaning on the panel), dirt or moisture, or a failing keypad.

Look-alike codes that mean something different:

• C-F2, -tE-, or TE: a communication problem between the touch panel and the control. Samsung UK says to press Stop and try again. Samsung Canada calls TE a "Touch Communication Error."
• C-d1 or C-d2: Samsung lists these in the same "door or key" group, but they aren't the SE code.

Codes differ by model and country. Samsung Canada notes its list applies to microwaves sold in Canada, so check your user manual for your model's list.

Likely causes (most common first)

1. A key held down too long. Someone kept a finger on a key, or something was leaning on the panel. Samsung UK's definition is a key pressed for more than 10 seconds.
2. Moisture on or behind the panel. This can be steam from the cooktop below an over-the-range microwave, a spill, or a wet cleaning cloth. Samsung US says to let the electronics dry if they've been exposed to moisture.
3. Dirt or grease on the keys. Samsung UK says to clean the button (dust, water).
4. A temporary electronics glitch that a power reset clears.
5. A worn, damaged, or failing keypad (membrane), or a fault in the control. This is likely when SE keeps coming back after cleaning and resetting.

How to fix it, step by step

Try the microwave after each step.

1. Take your hands off the panel and clear the area. Make sure nothing is pressing on any key: no dish, utensil, towel, or a child leaning against it.
2. Unplug the microwave or switch off its circuit breaker. Over-the-range models are usually plugged in inside the cabinet above, so the breaker is often easier.
3. Let it dry if moisture may be the cause. If there's been a spill, a boil-over, or heavy steam from the cooktop, leave the power off long enough for the electronics to dry. Samsung US says to give it time to dry.
4. Clean the keys while the power is off. Wipe the control panel with a soft cloth that's barely damp, then dry it well. Never spray cleaner directly on the panel, because liquid can seep under the keys. Pay attention to the edges of the panel, where grease and moisture collect.
5. Wait at least 60 seconds, then restore power. Samsung US and Canada both give a 60-second reset. Check that the clock or display comes back normally before you press anything.
6. Use the cooktop vent fan when cooking (over-the-range models). If SE tends to show up after big pots of boiling water or steamy cooking, run the hood fan to keep steam away from the microwave's controls.
7. Call Samsung if SE comes back. Samsung UK says to contact service if the same problem appears again after cleaning. At that point the keypad or control needs a technician.

Test the part

The part behind SE is the touch keypad (membrane) and the control it connects to. Testing these means opening the microwave, and that's not safe for homeowners. Repair Clinic warns that a microwave's high-voltage capacitor can hold enough charge to cause serious injury or death, even after it's unplugged. Stick to these outside checks.

1. Unplug the microwave or switch off its breaker. Leave it off while you inspect.
2. Check the panel surface. In good light, look for cracked, bubbled, or peeling keypad film, a key that looks pushed in, or moisture or fogging under the panel's surface.
3. Press each key once (with the power off). Feel for a key that doesn't spring back or feels mushy compared to the others. Note which one, for the technician.
4. Look for steam or grease damage. On over-the-range models, check the underside and front edge near the controls for heavy grease buildup or water marks, which suggest steam getting into the panel.
5. Check the outlet and cord. Make sure the plug is fully seated and the cord isn't damaged. Don't use an extension cord.
6. Stop here. Don't remove the outer case, the control panel, or any screws to reach the keypad connector or board. No meter tests are given for this code because the parts are inside the microwave cabinet.

If the panel looks fine and SE keeps returning, or the keypad looks damaged, request service.

Safety notes

When to call a pro

Contact Samsung or an authorized technician if:

• SE comes back after unplugging for 60 seconds, drying, and cleaning the keys.
• A key is visibly damaged, the panel film is bubbled or cracked, or there's moisture trapped under the panel.
• The microwave starts or stops on its own, or keys respond when you haven't touched them.
• Your microwave is under warranty. Don't open it, which can void coverage, and request service instead.

In the US, you can request service through Samsung's Support Center at samsung.com/us/support.

FAQ

Related

• All microwave error codes