Siemens Washing Machine: not entering washing cycle

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Siemens washing machine not entering the washing cycle? If the machine powers on but shows no signs of progression, such as drum rotation or control response, you may be facing common issues like Child Lock activation or a door not properly locked. Understanding these causes can help you get your washer back in action quickly.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Siemens Models

  • Child Lock deactivation methods vary by model; see manual for correct button combinations.

Possible Causes

Child Lock activated

How to Identify: Key or lock symbol on display; buttons unresponsive until lock is deactivated.

Part: Control panel child lock system

Door not properly locked

How to Identify: No audible click when closing door; machine won’t start until door fully closes; possible error code or lock icon persists.

Part: Door latch and lock assembly

Start button held incorrectly

How to Identify: Brief or excessively long press triggers double beep and cycle won’t start; following manufacturer press duration solves issue.

Part: Control buttons

Safety lockout/safety system engaged

How to Identify: Machine unresponsive after power outage/trip; may require power reset.

Part: Control board safety circuits

DIY Solutions

Deactivate Child Lock

Easy 1–3 minutes
  1. Locate key/lock symbol on display.
  2. Press and hold Start for ~3–5 seconds or relevant button combo per manual until lock symbol disappears.
  3. Verify control buttons now respond and select the wash cycle to start.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure machine is powered on before unlocking.

Ensure Door Is Fully Closed

Easy 1–2 minutes
  1. Open and firmly close the door until a solid click is heard.
  2. Check for clothing or items caught in door seal.
  3. Attempt to start cycle again.

Power Reset to Clear Safety Lockout

Easy 5–15 minutes
  1. Turn off machine at mains or breaker.
  2. Wait 10–15 minutes.
  3. Restore power, select simple program, or cancel current selection.
  4. Try starting desired cycle.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure safe power handling.

Professional Repairs

Replace Door Lock/Interlock Assembly

Estimated Cost: $50–$150

Control Board Diagnostics/Replacement

Estimated Cost: $200–$400

When to Call a Professional

When door lock replacement is needed or error codes persist after DIY checks
If control board is suspected
If electrical safety issues (tripping breakers) occur

Preventive Maintenance

  • Periodically check and clean door latch and seal: Mis‑latching and false lock detections
    Frequency: monthly
  • Avoid overfilling drum above rated capacity: Door closure issues
    Frequency: every load

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Siemens Washing Machine not entering washing cycle?
Common causes include Child Lock activation, door not locked, or safety lockout.
How do I fix Siemens Washing Machine not entering washing cycle myself?
Try deactivating Child Lock, ensuring the door is closed, or performing a power reset.
How much does it cost to fix not entering washing cycle?
Professional repairs can range from $50 for door lock replacement to $400 for control board diagnostics.
When should I call a technician for not entering washing cycle?
If DIY solutions fail or if you suspect a serious issue, it's time to call a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Door latch malfunction preventing cycle start
  • Water supply issues or blocked inlet filter
  • Faulty control board or software glitch

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and secure the door latch. Ensure the door is fully closed and listen for a click. If the latch is damaged, replace it.

  2. Inspect the water supply hoses for kinks and ensure the water valves are open. Clean the inlet filter by detaching the hose and rinsing it under water.

  3. Reset the washing machine by unplugging it for 5 minutes. If the issue persists, consider checking or replacing the control board.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. [HELP] old washing machine - Siemens Extraklasse F 1100 A - ...

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