Kenmore 796 model front-load washer Error Code CL: Meaning & How to Fix It

By the ErrorCodePro Editorial Team · Last reviewed October 20, 2026

Kenmore 796 model front-load washer error code CL means: Child Lock is on. The Child Lock control panel feature is enabled. The control won't accept selections while the Child Lock is on. [1] Keep using it? Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair. Start with the owner checks below, beginning with: write down the code and model number.

Source: Kenmore 796 model front-load washer error-code chart, via Sears PartsDirect [1].

Quick facts

Code	CL
Also shown as	None listed by the manufacturer
Brand / appliance	Kenmore 796 model front-load washer
System	Door / lock
Meaning (service chart)	Child Lock is on. The Child Lock control panel feature is enabled. The control won't accept selections while the Child Lock is on. [1]
Keep using it?	Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair
DIY-safe?	Owner checks only (listed below)
Support	Kenmore customer support (kenmore.com) or a Sears-authorized technician
Source document	Kenmore 796 model front-load washer error-code chart (via Sears PartsDirect)

On this page: Meaning · Steps · Parts · When to call a technician · Related codes · FAQ

What error code CL means on a Kenmore 796 model front-load washer

Child Lock is on. The Child Lock control panel feature is enabled. The control won't accept selections while the Child Lock is on. [1]

This is a door / lock code. Codes and wording can vary by model, so check your owner's manual for your model number.

How to fix Kenmore 796 model front-load washer error code CL (safe owner checks)

Safety first: disconnect power before you remove any panel or reach into the sump or drum. Do not touch wiring, the control board or the motor. If you see water near electrical parts, stop and call a technician. These steps are based on the Kenmore 796 model front-load washer error-code chart (via Sears PartsDirect) [1], rewritten for clarity.

Write down the code and model number. Note exactly what the display shows (CL) and copy the full model number from the rating label, so you can confirm this chart applies to your 796 model front-load washer and order the right parts.
Clean the filter. Try our water filter finder Most common symptoms to help you fix your washers Choose a symptom to see related washer repairs.
Open the water supply. Make sure that water supply faucets for the washer are open.
Rebalance the load. Add a towel or two (or more garments) to the load. Check the load to see if it's tangled.
Check the drain hose. Check the drain hose for a kink or restriction.
Close the door or lid fully. Check the door for an obstruction.
Do a power reset. Try to clear the code by unplugging the washer for 5 minutes.
Clear any clog or debris. Restore power and see if the code clears.
Use the symptoms. Use the symptoms and DIY repair tips to troubleshoot any washer problem.

The first and last steps (and the power reset) are general owner checks added by ErrorCodePro; the rest follow the Kenmore 796 model front-load washer error-code chart published by Sears PartsDirect, rewritten for safe owner use.

Parts that may be involved

Exact parts depend on your model number. This page lists part types only, never part numbers.

No specific part is implied by the manufacturer's guidance for this code.

When to call a technician

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Anything involving wiring, the control board, the motor or the water valve electrics
The appliance is under warranty: contact Kenmore customer support (kenmore.com) or a Sears-authorized technician first

Frequently asked questions

What does error code CL mean on a Kenmore 796 model front-load washer?

The Kenmore 796 model front-load washer error-code chart lists CL as follows: Child Lock is on. The Child Lock control panel feature is enabled. The control won't accept selections while the Child Lock is on.

Is it safe to keep using the 796 model front-load washer with CL?

Only if the owner checks below clear the code; if it returns, stop and book a repair.

Can I fix Kenmore 796 model front-load washer error CL myself?

Only with the owner checks on this page, starting with: write down the code and model number. If it persists, call a technician or Kenmore customer support (kenmore.com) or a Sears-authorized technician.

Sources

Sears PartsDirect: Kenmore 796 model front-load washer error-code chart (third-party copy of manufacturer service data)

Last reviewed: October 20, 2026. ErrorCodePro is not affiliated with Kenmore.