The door of the washing machine cannot be opened

Issue

The washing machine door cannot be opened after a cycle has finished, the door appears stuck, or a key symbol (door lock icon) is displayed. In most cases, this is caused by the door lock safety system, water remaining inside the appliance, or a programme that has not fully completed.

You may experience:

Typical Signs

• The door remains locked after the programme ends
• A key symbol or door lock icon appears on the display
• The washing machine contains water
• The door handle will not release the lock
• Laundry is trapped inside the drum

Applies to:

• Front loader washing machine (integrated and freestanding)

Resolution

Start by checking the most common causes of the problem. In many cases, the door can be opened without requiring a service visit.

1. Wait a Few Minutes After the Programme Ends

The door lock remains engaged for a short period after the cycle finishes. This is a normal safety function that prevents the door from being opened immediately after washing.

Wait approximately 3 to 5 minutes for the door lock mechanism to cool and release.

2. Check Whether the Child Lock or Door Lock Is Active

If the display is off but the door remains locked:

1. Switch the appliance on.
2. Check whether the key symbol or padlock symbol is displayed.
3. If active, deactivate the lock function according to the instructions in your user manual.

3. Check for Water Inside the Appliance

The door cannot be opened while water remains inside the drum. This prevents flooding and protects the appliance.

If water is visible inside the machine:

1. Drain the water from the appliance.
2. Open the pump filter and carefully collect the water in a shallow tray or container.
3. Check that the drain hose is not kinked or blocked.
4. Inspect the household drain connection.
5. Clean the drain pump filter to remove lint, coins, or other obstructions.
6. Run a rinse or drain programme to verify that the appliance drains correctly.

For detailed instructions, see:

• Your appliance user manual
• How to Drain Your Washing Machine

4. Use the Emergency Door Release (Selected Models)

Some washing machines include an emergency door release located behind the filter flap, near the drain pump filter.

Before proceeding:

• Switch the appliance off.
• Disconnect the mains plug.
• Ensure the drum is not rotating.
• Make sure the water level has been drained.
• Allow hot water and laundry to cool before opening the door.

Emergency Unlock Procedure

Step 1: Press the On/Off button and switch the appliance off.

Step 2: Disconnect the appliance from the power supply.

Step 3: Open the filter flap.

Step 4: Locate the emergency unlock device and carefully pull it downward.

Step 5: While holding the release mechanism, gently pull the door open.

Step 6: Remove the laundry and close the door.

Step 7: Close the filter flap.

Important

Risk of burns: Do not attempt to open the appliance if the water or laundry is still hot.

Risk of injury: Never try to open the door while the drum is rotating.

Risk of flooding: Always drain excess water before using the emergency door release.

5. Reset the Appliance

Electronic control issues can occasionally prevent the door from unlocking.

1. Switch the washing machine off.
2. Disconnect it from the power supply.
3. Wait 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Reconnect the appliance.
5. Switch it on and check whether the door unlocks normally.

When Is It a Genuine Fault?

The issue may require service if:

• The door remains locked even after draining the appliance.
• The emergency release does not open the door.
• The door lock mechanism does not disengage.
• The appliance repeatedly displays door lock errors.
• The door lock, control board, or wiring system may be defective.

In these cases, there may be a fault with the door lock assembly, electronic control system, or associated components.

Book Service

If your washing machine still has problems after completing the recommended checks, our specially trained technicians can quickly identify the cause and carry out the necessary repair.

Contact us to arrange a repair

Cause:

The washing machine door is designed to remain locked during operation and immediately after a programme ends to ensure user safety.

Common causes include:

1. Water remaining inside the drum
2. A blocked drain pump filter
3. A blocked or kinked drain hose
4. An active child lock or door lock function
5. A temporary electronic issue requiring a reset
6. A faulty door lock mechanism
7. A malfunction within the electronic control system

FAQ

Why is my washing machine door still locked after the cycle has finished?

The safety lock may require 3 to 5 minutes to release after the programme ends.

What does the key symbol mean?

The key or padlock symbol usually indicates that a lock function, such as Child Lock or Door Lock, is active.

Can I force the door open?

No. Forcing the door open can damage the lock mechanism and door assembly.

Why can't I open the door when water is inside the machine?

The appliance prevents the door from opening to avoid water leakage and flooding.

Does every washing machine have an emergency door release?

No. This feature is available only on selected models. Refer to your user manual for confirmation.

Could a faulty door lock cause this problem?

Yes. A defective door lock assembly is a common cause when the door remains locked despite completing all recommended checks.