Please share this page's link on Facebook. (Service manual links coming soon.) • updated October 28, 2015
Samsung has released an official service bulletin detailing the only correct repair procedure for the listed models of microwaves when they develop an intermittent or constant "SE" error (sometimes erroneously called a "5E" error).
BEWARE BOGUS REPAIR TIPS!
There are many "tips" and videos online which depict cleaning methods and paper inserts as solutions. These methods only work if there is moisture or grease or damage in the areas the tips highlight. Many folks are fooled into thinking these "solutions" work because the "SE" problem can be intermittent until it fails for good. Another, more important issue is safety...
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
The "SE" error is reported by the microwave's software whenever one or more keys on the keypad are pressed or shorted for more than 60 seconds. An "SE" condition can result in the microwave oven running on its own, which can result (and has resulted) in house fires. So until your oven is repaired, please leave it unplugged, or at the very least, leave the door open so it can't run.
And before you begin working on your microwave or any other electrical item, read my important safety information and also note that, in Samsung's words:
"This information is published for informational purposes only and intended for use only by personnel qualified for the specific tasks depicted. Qualified personnel are those who, based on their training and experience, are capable of identifying risks and avoiding potential hazards when handling or servicing a product. Only qualified personnel should repair products powered by electricity. Any attempt to handle, service or repair the product or products by anyone other than qualified personnel could result in serious injury or death. You agree that your use of and reliance on this information is at your sole risk. This information is subject to change or update without notice. There are no warranties, either expressed or implied, regarding the accuracy or completeness of this information."ORDERING PARTS TO DO IT YOURSELF
You can order appliance parts and accessories from several sources, but here are my favorites*, in order of preference: Appliance Parts Pros, Sears Parts Direct, and Encompass. (You can check all three for the best price and availability.)
MODELS AFFECTED
Note the difference between a model number and a model code. When you remove your control panel assembly, if the model code tag on the keypad strip says something other than "XAA" please contact me before ordering parts. The model code tag is found on the keypad's connector strip, and is visible only when the control panel assembly has been removed.
model code tag on keypad strip - click for full-sized
model code tag on keypad strip - click for full-sized
If your model number is not listed and you need help, or there is a mistake, please... contact me at no charge but please do not call. Instead e-mail me for free technical help and please include the full model number and FCC ID number from the tag of your oven, plus your detailed symptoms, and also when they happen. Click the mail link at the top right of my home page to contact me. (If you call, there's no easy way to communicate the information you need, especially the photos and links I'll provide you!)
The list below shows each model number affected, and to its right is the part number you need to order. If a model number is underlined in red, you can click the link to download that model's service manual for even more precise disassembly and repair information for other problems.
It's best to copy and paste the part number to avoid the complications of confusing an oh with a zero, etc.:
SMH1611B DE94-02411A
SMH1611W DE94-02411B
SMH1611P DE94-02411C
SMH1611S DE94-02411D
SMH1713B DE94-02411E
SMH1713W DE94-02411F
SMH1713S DE94-02411G
SMH1816B DE94-02517A
SMH1816W DE94-02517B
SMH1816S DE94-02517C
SMH7174BC DE94-00939D
SMH7174WC DE94-00939E
SMH7174BE DE94-00939N
SMH7174WE DE94-00939P
SMH7185BG DE94-01614A
SMH7185WG DE94-01614B
SMH7185STG DE94-01614C
SMH7187STG DE94-01614C
SMH8165B DE94-01806A
SMH8165W DE94-01806B
SMH8165ST DE94-01806C
SMH8165STE DE94-01806C
SMH9151B DE94-01806H
SMH9151W DE94-01806J
SMH9151S DE94-01806K
SMH9151ST DE94-01806L
SMH9151BE DE94-01806M
SMH9151WE DE94-01806N
SMH9151STE DE94-01806P
SMH9187B DE94-02001A
SMH9187W DE94-02001B
SMH9187ST DE94-02001C
SMK9175ST DE94-01407D
DISASSEMBLY TIPS & NOTES
See the safety information near the top first!
My (old but helpful) video shows you how to remove the control panel assembly from most over the range microwave oven brands.
But on these and other Samsung and GE models, if you have any trouble getting the grille off once the screws are removed, slide the hood vent grille to the left about 1/4", then then pull it forward. (On some models there are L-shaped clips that fit into a slot to hold bottom of the vent.)
Some connectors have a lock. And be careful disconnecting
the keypad.
click for full-sized
click for full-sized
Once your board is out of your old control panel
frame, move it to the panel assembly, but be careful since the
display is made of glass. If you break the glass, you will need a
new board!
* DISCLOSURES
I have over 30 years' of experience in electronic design and repair. These really are my favorite suppliers, due to several factors such as price, inventory, warranty, return policy, etc. Yes, I am an affiliate of these suppliers, but I would recommend them even if I weren't. When you click on one of my part links and order a part or accessory, I do receive a small commission, which I appreciate as a "thank you" for my helping you save money and effectively repair your appliances. But I am in no way affiliated with Samsung.
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