Samsung · Washing Machine

AE

Communication Error Between Boards

Severity

High

Your Samsung Washing Machine stopped working and is showing error AE, which corresponds to a fault called "Communication Error Between Boards". This is one of the most searched error codes for this appliance — you are not alone, and there is a clear fix.

Owner's Summary

The two computer boards inside your washer have lost communication with each other. This is often caused by a loose connector rattled loose by vibration. A power cycle and connector check resolves this in many cases without spending money.

Symptoms

Samsung washer stops mid-cycle, all lights flash, AE displayed

Common Causes

Loose or corroded wiring harness between main PCB and sub-board
Power surge damaging communication circuits
Failed main control board
Failed display or sub-board

How to Fix

1 Unplug washer for 10 minutes and power on again
2 Inspect wiring harness connectors between main PCB and sub-board — reseat all connectors
3 Check for burn marks or swollen capacitors on main PCB
4 Replace main PCB if error persists after reseating connectors
5 Replace sub-board or display board if main PCB tests good

Tools You'll Need

Electrical Contact Cleaner Flashlight

Most of these fixes need only basic hand tools. If your repair requires opening electrical housings or testing live components, a multimeter and basic electrical safety knowledge are essential — when in doubt, call a technician.

Technical Explanation

Samsung washers use a serial communication bus (typically UART or I2C) between the main PCB and the display/sub-board. If the main board does not receive valid acknowledgment packets within the communication timeout window, it posts AE and halts all outputs to prevent unsafe operation.

Is It Safe to Keep Using?

Safe to leave off. Do not attempt to run cycles with AE active — the boards cannot coordinate safely.

Technician's Pro Tip

Vibration during high-speed spin cycles can cause harness connectors to back out over time. On Samsung front-loaders, the harness runs along the left interior panel — visually inspect the full length for chafing or connector looseness.

Related Codes

E2 — Samsung Washing Machine

Water Supply Error

High

4E — Samsung Washing Machine

No Water Supply Detected

High

5E — Samsung Washing Machine

Drain Error — Water Not Draining

High

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code AE mean on a Samsung Washing Machine?

Code AE on a Samsung Washing Machine indicates "Communication Error Between Boards." In practice, the most common trigger is loose or corroded wiring harness between main PCB and sub-board. Severity is rated high, and typical repair costs range from $0 to $350.

Can I fix AE myself, or do I need a technician?

Many cases of AE can be resolved without a technician. The first step to try: unplug washer for 10 minutes and power on again. If that doesn't clear the code, work through the remaining steps in the "How to Fix" section above before assuming a part needs replacing.

Is it safe to keep using my washing machine with code AE showing?

Safe to leave off. Do not attempt to run cycles with AE active — the boards cannot coordinate safely.

How much does it cost to repair AE on a Samsung Washing Machine?

Repair costs for code AE typically range from $0 to $350. Reseat connectors: $0; Main PCB: $100–$350; Sub-board: $50–$150. Costs on the low end usually reflect a DIY fix with no parts required, while the high end reflects a part replacement plus professional labor.

Estimated Repair Cost USD

$0 – $350

Reseat connectors: $0; Main PCB: $100–$350; Sub-board: $50–$150