KitchenAid Countertop Microwave Display LOC, L or Padlock: Control Lock is enabled

What LOC or "L" or Padlock Icon means

On KitchenAid countertop microwaves such as the KCMS1555SSS or KCMS1655BSS, LOC, an L, or a padlock icon means the Control Lock is enabled. The keypad ignores presses until it is turned off. Depending on the model, press and hold Cancel for three seconds, or hold Start for five seconds, to unlock the controls. Pressing keys while the lock is on will not harm anything.

Common causes of LOC or "L" or Padlock Icon

Control Lock switched on by a press-and-hold
Child safety setting enabled on purpose
Keys accidentally held while cleaning the panel

✓ One safe check you can try

1. Try pressing and holding the Cancel key for three seconds. 2. If the lock remains, press and hold the Start key for five seconds. 3. Check that the icon or LOC has disappeared. 4. If the keys still do not respond, unplug the microwave for a minute and call us if the lock stays.

! Why to stop there

The lock is a feature, not an error, and needs no repair.
A keypad that ignores unlocking may have a different problem.
We only come when the controls stay dead after unlocking.

Opening a panel yourself does not automatically cancel a manufacturer warranty, but it can cause accidental damage, and some manufacturers set their own service conditions. Check your warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.

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Other Microwave codes

Registration ErrorKitchenAid Over-the-Range Microwave Message "Registration Error": Check the home network and try again Sabbath, Sab, 5Ab, or 5A6KitchenAid Built-In Microwave Display Sabbath, Sab, 5Ab or 5A6: Sabbath Mode is on SEKitchenAid Over-the-Range Microwave Code SE: Keypad or user interface problem Probe or Insert ProbeKitchenAid Combination Microwave Message "Probe" or "Insert Probe": Seat the meat probe in its jack PUSH or PSHKitchenAid Built-In Microwave Message PUSH or PSH: The oven is waiting for Start F4E4KitchenAid Over-the-Range Microwave Code F4E4: Humidity thermistor or its wiring F9Q1KitchenAid Over-the-Range Microwave Code F9Q1: Touch pad and its wiring F4E9KitchenAid Over-the-Range Microwave Code F4E9: Smart Pop control or wiring flagged

LOC or "L" or Padlock IconLOC or "L" or Padlock Icon questions

Is the lock a defect?

No. The Control Lock is a feature designed to prevent unintended use, for example by children. Turn it off with the press-and-hold method for your model.

I tried both holds and nothing worked.

Unplug the microwave for a minute, restore power and try again. If the keypad still ignores you, the touch pad may have a problem and a technician should look.

Can I leave the lock on?

Yes, if you want the added safety. The microwave simply will not accept key presses until you turn it off. Yes, if you like the added safety. Until then the keys stay silent, which is by design.