The SE error code on a Samsung microwave means there is a problem with the touchpad or control board. In most cases, the error is caused by a stuck button or a dirty ribbon cable. In more serious cases, the control board may have a fault that can only be fixed by replacing the control board.
The SE error code can be dangerous, as sometimes when there is an SE error, the microwave will turn on by itself. If the microwave is doing this, make sure to disconnect the power until the issue is fixed. The SE error code is usually accompanied by the microwave beeping several times. Opening and closing the microwave door can provide a temporary fix for this issue.
This guide applies to the following models:
MR5471G
MR6471G
MU4270W
MW1010
MW3252T
MW4271G
SMH7174BCXAA
SMH7174CC/XAA
SMH7174WCXAA
SMH7174WEXAA
SMH7175BCXAA
SMH7175CCXAA
SMH7175WCXAA
SMH7178STDXAA
SMH7178STEXAA
SMH7185STGXAA
SMH9187BXAA
SMH9187STXAA
SMH9187WXAA
SMV9165BCXAA
SMV9165SCXAA
Repairing a microwave is more dangerous than repairing other household appliances because of the high-voltage capacitor inside the microwave. The high-voltage capacitor can store a lethal amount of electricity, even after the microwave has been disconnected from the power for several months. To safely access internal electrical components, the capacitor must be discharged.
Depending on the type of microwave and your level of microwave repair knowledge, it may be possible to repair the control panel or control board without touching components associated with the high-voltage capacitor; however, you would be risking fatal electrocution.
The capacitor can be discharged by touching both the positive and negative terminals of the capacitor with a metal screwdriver blade. You must insulate yourself against electrocution, and the terminals must be touched by the metal blade at the same time. You could use either a flat-edge screwdriver with a rubber handle or needle-nose pliers with rubber handles.
Before attempting the solutions below, try resetting the microwave to resolve the error code. To reset the microwave, disconnect it from the power for 60 seconds. If the error code was a glitch, the microwave should work normally after a reset. However, if the error code returns, follow the advice below to diagnose and fix the issue.
Occasionally, the SE error code is caused by the control board failing to detect that buttons are being pressed because the control panel is dirty. Cleaning the control panel and then drying it may resolve the issue.
The SE error code is often caused by a stuck key or a faulty touchpad. The microwave’s touchpad is a membrane switch, which consists of two flexible layers of Mylar plastic with a conductive coating on the sides that face each other. Pressing a key on your microwave keypad brings the two surfaces together, which closes the circuit and sends a signal to the control board.
Over time, the conductive coating on the membrane switch can wear out, particularly with frequently used keys. The control panel and touchpad can be tested with a multimeter; however, you will need the wiring diagram and the ability to interpret the multimeter readings. If the touchpad is causing the SE error code, it is recommended that the touchpad be replaced.
Before replacing the touchpad, clean the ribbon connector on the control board. Cleaning the ribbon cable often resolves the SE error code. The ribbon cable can be cleaned using rubbing alcohol and a pencil eraser (see instructions below).
If the touchpad or ribbon cable is not causing the SE error code, the control board is likely defective and will need to be replaced. The microwave control board receives input signals from the touchpad. Depending on the input signals, the control board then sends signals to the relevant microwave components. If the control board is not acting on the signals from the keypad, it suggests that the control board is defective.
The control board can be visually checked for damage. If there are burn marks, corrosion, or damaged wiring, the control board will likely need to be replaced. The control board can also be tested with a multimeter to determine if it needs to be replaced. However, a control board multimeter test is more complicated than a typical multimeter test. Like the touchpad, you will need the wiring diagram and the ability to interpret the multimeter readings. Because it is difficult to test and difficult to repair, most repair services recommend replacing the control board over trying to repair it.
On most microwaves, the touchpad is a part of the front control panel, and the entire panel will need to be removed and replaced if the touchpad is defective.
After you have accessed the control panel, one of the wires that needs to be disconnected is the ribbon cable.
After you have cleaned the ribbon connector and control board, reconnect the cables and reassemble the microwave. If the SE error remains, replace the touchpad or control panel. If the SE error remains, replace the main control board. Due to the safety risk and complexity of the testing and repair, it is recommended that a trained professional replace the touchpad or control board.
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