Error Code MOTOR-LOCKED
Compressor motor is seized or cannot maintain proper speed
Moderate
Address soon - your appliance may not work properly
Also displayed as: Inverter LED blink: Motor Locked / Over RPM pattern
What This Means
Compressor mechanical lock-up; Rotor locked within 5 seconds of startup; Compressor running below 1000 RPM for more than 5 seconds; Sudden large change in input voltage; Refrigeration cycle restriction (e.g., overcharge or blockage)
What actually causes this:
The compressor motor has mechanically seized or there is a refrigerant pressure problem preventing it from running at the correct speed.
First Thing to Check
Listen for the compressor — a loud grinding or clicking that stops quickly usually means the compressor is locked.
Parts Involved
How to Fix
- 1
Wait 5+ minutes for protection timer to expire
- 2
Check input voltage stability
- 3
Check refrigeration cycle for blockage or overcharge
- 4
Attempt forced operation to see if compressor will start
- 5
If compressor still does not run, replace compressor
This Error Applies To
Samsung DRF36C Series Refrigerators (2022) (2022–present)
Related Error Codes
Internal I/O expander chip on main board has a communication fault
External temperature sensor is unplugged or has failed
Freezer temperature sensor is disconnected or out of range
Freezer evaporator fan is not running when it should be
Freezer defrost sensor is disconnected or reading out of range
Condenser fan motor in the machine compartment is not running
Freezer defrost heater or safety cutout has failed or wiring is open
Fridge temperature sensor is disconnected or out of range